A COLCHESTER family who lost their daughter at birth have launched a business to help spread joy to little ones and their families.
James and Gertruda Kearney sadly lost their daughter Savannah Amanda-Lise in 2023 when medical staff assumed she was a stillbirth.
An investigation by the Essex Coroner’s Court came to the conclusion that Savannah could have survived, and the family received a payout.
Following the devastating loss, the Kearney’s decided to find a way to keep Savannah’s memory alive and give happy memories to other families and launched their business in the summer.
Through GabSav’s party hire, named after daughters Gabriella and Savannah, the family has met many others who have experienced premature births.
James, 32, said: “It is not making me rich, but I love doing it. I’ve studied childcare and I’m just all about family.
“GabSav’s is about making people happy. And seeing the children’s smiles and their faces light up is amazing. It makes it all worthwhile.”
The support from customers and community responses have been uplifting and encouraging, James said.
He added: “The support we have had in the short time that we have been in business is absolutely amazing. There is such a lovely community out there.”
After their loss, the bereavement charity Sands, which offers support to families and individuals who have lost a baby before, during or shortly after birth, has become a vital point of contact for the family.
James said: “I wasn’t ready to talk about it until very recently, but I went to Sands for support. This charity does incredible work and it amazed me how many customers can relate to Sands.
“It feels very important to raise awareness about their work.”
GabSav’s is hoping to add more to the range of options at its party hire and connect with other members of the industry to offer families the best experience possible.
Additionally, the Kearney’s are happy to work with charities to create more happy memories, especially for families who have had a stroke of fate.
GabSav’s Party Hire is offering bouncy castles in the Colchester, Clacton and Witham areas.
For further information and to get in touch with GabSav’s visit gabsavs.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here