Killeigh poet to launch collection 'Waiting for James' for World Brain Day
By Rebekah O'Reilly
Killeigh dad John Saunders is set to launch a powerful new poetry collection inspired by his family's experience following his son James' acquired brain injury this World Brain Day.
The official launch of ‘Waiting for James’, a collection of poems written by John, will take place at Esker Arts Centre in Tullamore on Wednesday, July 22 from 5pm to 7pm.
The launch coincides with World Brain Day, a global awareness day which highlights the importance of brain health and the challenges faced by people living with brain injury in Ireland.
James was just 12 years old when he sustained a life-changing acquired brain injury in a road traffic accident in April 2019, and his life was turned upside down.
He spent nine months in Temple Street Hospital, followed by three months in the National Rehabilitation Centre in Dun Laoghaire after the accident.
Through a deeply personal collection of poems, John captures the fear, uncertainty, hope and resilience that followed in the aftermath of James’ injury.
While rooted in one family's experience, the collection speaks to the reality faced by thousands of people across Ireland living with the impact of brain injury and to the families, friends and carers who support them every day.
The book launch will feature readings from the collection, the opportunity to meet John and James Saunders, and learn more about the impact of brain injury and the vital services of Acquired Brain Injury Ireland.
Speaking ahead of the launch, author John said: "Waiting for James began as a way of processing what our family was going through after James’ accident. It is a sad story but also one of hope, trials and tribulations, and successes since then. My hope is that these poems offer comfort, reflection, and a sense of being understood. As a way of giving something back, I have donated this collection of poems to Acquired Brain Injury Ireland.”
James' story is one of remarkable determination and resilience. Reflecting on his recovery journey, James said: “They said I wouldn't survive. I did. They said I wouldn't walk or talk. I can. And you can't shut me up,” said James.
James was awarded a Special Achievement Award at the Garda Youth Awards in 2021, where he was described as showing “leadership beyond his years” and a spirit “which is impossible to defeat or subdue”.
The inspirational young student, who has one older brother, Jack, was also lauded as having “true courage” and a fighting spirit that has shown his fellow students “that nothing is impossible when we have the courage and determination to face our challenges head-on.”
Prior to his devastating accident, James was a member of the Tullamore Harriers and was “very fit and athletic” according to his Dad.
In 2020, the club raised over €9,000 through their 'Run for James Virtual 5k' to help support James in his recovery.
“James has been a valued member of Tullamore Harriers for many years, and his courage, determination, and resilience, along with the unwavering strength of his family, continue to inspire us all,” the club said ahead of the book launch.
To RSVP for the event, email: fundraising@abiireland.ie