On this special day of remembrance we would like to share the story of Rafaella Costin, a cherished student whose memory continues to inspire us. Rafaella was a kind and gentle soul who brought light into the lives of everyone she met. Her love for swimming and water polo reflected her adventurous spirit and zest for life. Tragically, Rafaella passed away three years ago today, on December 5th, 2021, after falling ill while doing what she loved most—playing water polo. Despite the best efforts of Temple Street Children’s Hospital, Rafaella’s sudden and unexpected passing, due to an undetectable heart abnormality, left an unimaginable void in the lives of her family, friends, and the community.

To honour Rafaella’s memory and ensure her legacy endures, Drogheda Water Polo Club has organised The Rafaella Costin Memorial Swimathon. This event is a celebration of Rafaella’s life and a chance to support two meaningful causes:

• Drogheda Water Polo Club, where she made lifelong friends and developed her passion for water polo, and
• Temple Street Children’s Hospital, whose A&E department provided care and comfort during her final hours.

How You Can Help
We invite our school community and beyond to support this meaningful initiative by contributing to the Swimathon’s fundraising efforts. All funds raised will be evenly distributed between these two deserving causes. Students and staff will also be taking part in the Swimathon on December 28th.

To donate, please visit the fundraising page on iDonate.ie Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference and helps ensure Rafaella’s memory lives on. Together, let us honour and celebrate Rafaella’s life, her love for swimming and water polo, and her enduring legacy of kindness and joy.