Longford comes together for launch of debut memoir by Laura Doyle

Laura Doyle's debut memoir, “Undelivered: Fertility, Miscarriage and My Journey to Self-Compassion”, was launched in Athena Cafe on Saturday, October 11. Beginning at 6pm, the cafe was very quickly filled with friends, family, the community and those involved in the publication of this book.

A piece from personal experience, Laura spoke to the ‘Longford Leader’ prior to the event about how it was to bring a voice to miscarriage so that there is more open conversation. Published by Book Hub Publishing, the local author was given great support by the Longford community.

PICTURES | Patrick Doherty's launch in Longford Library has brilliant turn out

Laura took time to take photos, and was selling signed copies of her book on the night for €16 at one of the tables. Many were purchased, and the night consisted of the author mingling with the attendees, some speeches and a Q & A session about how the book was created.

“The launch is a celebration to mark a period of time where you can start to move forward in a positive way and knowing that along the way it encourages people to navigate their way forward,” said Laura when asked about what the launch meant to her.

Every table was full with enthusiastic attendees, who applauded Laura’s achievement in writing the deep memoir from her own loss.

Imelda Kilmurray was there to provide an opening speech, who is also the chairperson of the Longford Writers’ Group.
“Congratulations Laura, well done for speaking out for the rest of us as well. I lost a baby girl to stillbirth, so I think everybody knows somebody. Next Wednesday is International Baby Loss Day, everywhere there are vigils and stuff like that. There’s one in Longford in the Memorial Garden. I’m one of the organisers of it.”

Informing the crowd of this important occasion, A4 pamphlets were left on the tables for people to read and be aware of the Wave of Light event on October 15, at 7pm. It is to take place in the Memorial Garden on Great Water Street.

Laura’s own speech proceeded to thank everyone from her husband, publishers, to those who listened during the loss, as well as when she began writing her story. The speech received a large round of applause by the supportive crowd.

On the day of the launch, Bookhub Publlishing posted on their Facebook: “Laura now officially carries the status of 'author' amongst her many other hats in life.. Many congratulations from your team here at Book Hub Publishing.”

Read more: Longford Pride’s secretary takes home Volunteer of the Year Award

Thereafter, the crowd was open to give a session of questions and answers about how the book developed to publication. Laura provided articulate and personal answers to each individual who wanted to learn more about her story and the work put into writing her first memoir.