Michael Gallagher reflects on balancing grief and activism after his son Aiden died in the Omagh bombing, regretting time lost with family.
His father, Michael, helped grieving families, becoming their leader after the bombing. Lord Turnbull and Simon Harris, an Irish leader, praised Michael’s work. Governments and politicians know him well.
Michael said his work took him away from his family, and it was hard watching them grieve. His house felt empty after Aiden died. Aiden’s chair stayed empty, and a part of them felt empty, too.
Michael regrets campaigning so much, thinking he should have spent more time with family. He admits this is hard to say.
Michael hopes the inquiry brings answers and wants people to see Aiden as a person, not just a statistic.
Aiden shared a birthday with his grandfather, exactly sixty years apart. This was very special to them both, and they always celebrated it together.
Michael said his father changed after the bombing. John died eleven days later, and the family believes it was from the grief.
The family was close and ran a business together, including a cafe and taxi service. Aiden was a very hard worker, who knew doing things right was important. He enjoyed his work as he got older. He loved vehicles and engines.
Aiden was a normal young guy who enjoyed going out with his friends. They liked having fun and drinking beer. Cars were his main interest.
He had friends from different backgrounds, which was clear at his wake and the funeral. The family did not tolerate bigotry. They valued people for who they were inside and chose friends based on their character, regardless of religion or politics.
Aiden was the funny one in his group. He enjoyed being with people and was fun, but also very sensitive.
Aiden also had a special bond with his mother. Patsy dealt with Aiden’s death privately and stayed strong even after her father died. Michael found it harder to cope.
He was amazed by his wife’s strength, knowing the bond they shared. Michael’s own brother was killed before. After the Good Friday Agreement, he hoped for peace.
He last saw Aiden at home that day when Aiden went to town to buy jeans. Michael told him where to park the car. Aiden said, “I won’t be long”.
That was the last time they saw him. Hours later, Michael identified his son’s body. Telling his family was very painful.
The public’s support restored their faith. He feels Aiden is still with them and is always part of their family.
Aiden’s sister, Cat Wilkinson, felt lost. She was angry and confused. She couldn’t cry or remember the past. Cat couldn’t believe he was really gone. Sometimes she believed he never existed. She asked if it was better to be the victim.
