From heartbreak to hope: Local musician Katelynn Kelly marks ten years on the road

Local musician, businesswoman and early years educator Katelynn Kelly has plenty to celebrate as she prepares for a very special night marking 10 years on the road with popular Midlands band Jiggers of Éireann.

Katelynn, who is from Ballycumber, is well known throughout the Midlands as a member of Jiggers of Éireann, who this month celebrate ten years of performing together.

To mark the milestone, the band are hosting a special anniversary and charity night on Friday, August 28, at Paddy Ryan's Bar, Horseleap, with all proceeds from the event going to the Miscarriage Association of Ireland — a cause that holds a particularly special place in Katelynn's heart.

Behind the celebrations is a deeply personal story. Katelynn and her fiancé, fellow musician and band member Jordan Delaney, experienced the heartbreaking loss of their baby in 2024. Following a long and emotional journey towards starting their family, the couple are now delighted to be expecting their rainbow baby in January.

The charity night will raise funds for the Miscarriage Association of Ireland. It promises to be a fantastic evening of live music, great craic and special guests, with doors opening at 7pm and music beginning from 7.30pm. The evening will be MC'd by Kevin Lawlor-Fitzpatrick, with a number of special guests joining the celebrations.

Tickets are €15, with all proceeds going towards the donation to the Miscarriage Association of Ireland.

But music is just one part of what has been an extraordinary few years for the young Offaly woman.

At just 23 years of age, Katelynn took the leap into business and opened Rainbows and Butterflies Early Learning Centre & Preschool in Clara, Co. Offaly.

Since opening its doors, the preschool has continued to go from strength to strength, expanding both its opening hours and the number of rooms operating within the building.

Katelynn has ambitious plans for the future, with further expansion on the horizon and planning applications forming part of her vision for her next project, including hopes of expanding her early years services into a neighbouring town.

Alongside a growing business and the excitement of preparing to welcome their baby, there is another major celebration on the horizon.

Katelynn and Jordan Delaney are due to tie the knot next July.

Jiggers of Éireann's 10 Years on the Road celebration takes place at Paddy Ryan's Bar, Horseleap, on Friday, August 28th, 2026. Doors open at 7pm, with music and special guests from 7.30pm. Tickets cost €15, with all proceeds going to the Miscarriage Association of Ireland.