Tributes paid to Ballina disability activist after her passing
Avril Greham pictured in Ballina for the homecoming of the Mayo senior football team earlier this year. Picture: John O'Grady
Tributes have been paid to Ballina woman Avril Greham following her passing.
Avril campaigned through her life for the rights of disabled people, and was the chairperson of the recently set up Mayo Disabled Persons Organisation.
Avril was also a member of the Ballina Autism Friendly Town Committee.
Among those to pay tribute to Avril was Ballina Senator Mark Duffy.
In a statement, Senator Duffy said: "Avril has been the beating heart of community life in Mayo for many years and her loss is immensely felt.
"Avril was a passionate voice in advocating for those with disabilities in Mayo and across the country and has made an incredible contribution through her work.
"A volunteer with her local club Ardnaree GAA, Darkness into Light, Ballina 2023, Ballina Community Clean Up, Ballina Autism Friendly Town and as a founding member of the Mayo Disabled Person Organisation to name just a few.
"Avril approached every challenge and issue with a spirit of positivity, optimism and can do attitude.
"She has left behind a world that is more accessible, more connected, more empowered and more included because of the work she did."
Following her passing, Ballina Autism Friendly Town Committee said: "Avril was a much-loved member of the Ballina Autism Friendly Town Committee, but she was so much more than that. She was a devoted friend, a dedicated volunteer, a passionate disabled advocate and an inspiring public speaker. She was a strong voice for equality and inclusion, a tireless champion of accessibility and someone who never stopped believing in the power of making a difference.
"Avril was a woman of great strength, positivity and determination, with an unwavering belief in the rights of all. She worked tirelessly to break down barriers, shatter stereotypes and empower others to create a more inclusive world. Through her advocacy and her commitment to helping others, she made a lasting difference to so many lives.
"We were so privileged to have been part of making Ballina an Autism Friendly Town alongside Avril. She brought so much to our committee, always offering encouragement and support and reminding us why this work matters.
"Through Ballina Autism Friendly Town, we set out to make a difference in our community, but how lucky were we that along the way we also formed friendships that we will treasure forever. Avril was a very special part of that journey, and there will always be an Avril-shaped space in our group that cannot be filled.
"Her unwavering commitment to inclusion, accessibility and helping others leaves a legacy of kindness, compassion and community spirit that will never be forgotten. We will carry her spirit with us in the work we continue to do and in the belief that everyone deserves to belong, to be heard and to feel included.
"Our heartfelt condolences go to Avril’s family and friends. We are so grateful for her friendship, her dedication and the privilege of having shared this journey with her."
May she rest in peace.
