UNITED KINGDOM / AGILITYPR.NEWS / October 21, 2025 / This Halloween, Baby Sensory Dublin City & Northside will once again turn its much-loved “Baby Pumpkin” classes into a celebration of community, compassion, and giving back - all in support of The Gavin Glynn Foundation.

The special Halloween sessions, led by long-time class leader and franchise owner Ruth Sweeney, invite parents and babies to dress up, have fun, and make a small donation to support Irish families whose children need to travel overseas for vital medical treatment. It’s a cause that holds deep personal meaning for Ruth and her local Baby Sensory community.

Ruth, who has been running Baby Sensory classes for more than six years, recalled how one of her class families inspired her ongoing fundraising efforts.

“In 2022, a lovely mum named Elaine attended Baby Sensory with her baby daughter, Ailbhe,” Ruth explained. “Shortly after Ailbhe graduated from our classes, she was diagnosed with a form of cancer called Retinoblastoma which causes tumours at the back of the eyes. The treatment she needed wasn’t available in Ireland, so her family had to travel to the UK. The Gavin Glynn Foundation stepped in and arranged everything, from travel to accommodation, so the family could focus entirely on Ailbhe’s care. No parent should have to face that kind of stress alone.”

Today, Ailbhe's tumours are stable, but she and her family still need to travel to England for treatment. Up to now, that has added up to more than forty round trips, all organised by the Gavin Glynn Foundation.

Touched by their story, Ruth decided to dedicate her annual Halloween fundraiser to the foundation. Since then, her Baby Pumpkin classes have raised almost €1,000 for the charity, with all proceeds going directly towards travel, accommodation, and living costs for families facing similar challenges.

While Baby Sensory is known for its research-based activities that support early development and bonding, Ruth believes that the sense of community it fosters is equally powerful. “Our classes are full of laughter, learning, and connection, not just for babies, but for parents too,” she said. “When something like this touches our group, everyone rallies around. That’s what makes this community so special.”

Now thriving despite losing sight in one eye, little Ailbhe continues to inspire Ruth and the families who attend her sessions. Each donation collected this October will help ensure that more children like her receive the care they need, no matter where that care is found.

Ruth added, “The Gavin Glynn Foundation gives families hope when they’re at their most vulnerable. It’s a privilege to support them, and I know our Baby Sensory families will be as generous and kind-hearted as ever this Halloween.”

Families wishing to take part in this year’s Baby Pumpkin classes or contribute to the fundraiser can contact Baby Sensory Dublin City & Northside directly for more information on www.babysensory.ie/dublincity-northside. 

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