Class 1 Marine Pilot
D M Kieran O’Driscoll
1986 – 2023

The reason we are fundraising. Our colleague, our friend, who sadly lost a battle within – a battle that none of us are immune to. We all can find our minds heading down a dark road in the wrong direction, there is no shame in finding yourself in such a position. I hope we become better at speaking about this more within our family, friendship, and professional settings so that the silent epidemic on suicide is tackled head-on.

Kieran had strong family bonds to both Wales and Ireland – my fellow Irish - someone asked me recently ‘’what is it with Irish people, why do you always seek each other out?’’
Simply put, having Irish heritage influenced every part of our upbringing; the community our families grew up in, the church we went to, the fact that we know all the words to 'Zombie' by the Cranberries, even the schools we attended (especially our high school, we had to travel to Timbuktu to get there and due to our school colours being green, white and gold – we were literally dressed as an Irish flag). Our parents gave us overtly Irish names and tried to cram as many Saints into your middle names as possible- being born Diarmuid O’Driscoll was a whopper of a giveaway! Growing up this way, you can’t help but share this unspoken bond, understanding, and pride.

Whilst we had this shared childhood, fates allowed it that Kieran and I ended up as colleagues too. Kieran was one of the most popular, knowledgeable, and mischievous personalities at the Port. Always striving for a career at sea, he held many positions in his chosen Maritime industry. Such was Kieran’s promise, he developed from a Pilot Apprentice to a Class 1 Maritime Pilot within 4 years. The boat and quayside crews enjoyed his company and were always glad when he was the named Pilot for their vessel. He was especially generous when it came to sharing his expertise and was a delight to work and socialise with.
Something that always struck me was that he couldn’t tolerate misinformation, bullying, or injustice. Ultimately, a man of character. There is not a day gone by since the 15th December 2023 that I’ve not thought about and missed him, many of us are now in the same boat.

On Saturday 11th May, I am participating in the Associated British Ports sponsored Ipswich Twilight 5km road race with a left knee that has the structural integrity of a soggy Kit-Kat. I am looking to fundraise in Kieran’s name for two worthwhile local charities that the O’Driscoll family helped in selecting:
- MIND, Norfolk and Waveney. A mental health charity who ‘’won't give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect’’.
- The Trussell Trust, Lowestoft Foodbank. Their ambitious aim is to end the need of foodbanks altogether.

Any funds raised will be split equally between the charities. If you are able to, please consider donating. Any amount contributed would mean the world.

A message direct to the O’Driscoll family:
Kieran was your dad, your son, your brother, your loved one – we know your grief is beyond words. We want to reiterate that there is a large support network here for you, this exists because of the lasting impact Kieran made to so many. I can’t imagine how proud you are of him.

Fair Winds and Following Seas, Kieran.