'I said a prayer to Saint Mary but I couldn't lift him up' - elderly woman tells of desperate effort to rescue husband who froze to death

At the Clare Coroner's Court in Kilrush, County Coroner Isobel O'Dea returned a verdict in the death of Bernard Kennedy, confirming the medical evidence. The post-mortem indicated that Mr. Kennedy's death was due to hypothermia, as he was unable to rise after falling outside his home. This tragic incident was exacerbated by the remoteness of their residence, leaving him exposed to the elements for an extended duration.

Annette Kennedy, 78, had attempted to call for help after her husband's fall, but unfortunately, she collapsed in the process. Noticing the urgency of the situation but succumbing to the stresses and physical demands placed upon her, Annette was subsequently found the next day in their bedroom. The couple’s location and isolated living conditions severely impacted their chances of immediate rescue.

Read at Irish Independent