“Over the past year, Bryan’s needs became far greater, and he has now moved into full time care. Up until now I didn’t have time to think. My day was completely focused on Bryan and his needs. Now I have time to miss him.”
She was speaking the launch of the Alzheimer’s Tea Day 2026, which will take place nationwide on Thursday, May 7 next.
Ms Crawford O’Brien is the National Host of Alzheimer’s Tea Day 2026.
Irish actor Bryan Murray (2005)
The launch event was held at The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s Orchard Daycare Centre in Blackrock, a service at the heart of the organisation’s community‑based supports for people living with dementia and their families.
Mr Murray (76) has been living with Alzheimer’s for the past six years, and the couple they become powerful advocates for awareness, understanding, and support for families affected by dementia.
He starred in RTE’s drama Fair City from 2005 before retiring last year,
Ms Crawford O’Brien today encouraged people across Ireland to get involved in the fund raising day doing whatever way works for them.
Fair City actress and National Host of Alzheimer’s Tea Day 2026, Úna Crawford O’Brien, pictured at The Orchard Day Care Centre at the launch of Alzheimer’s Tea Day 2026.
“Alzheimer’s Tea Day is on Thursday, May 7 and myself and Bryan would really love you to join us. You can take part in whatever way you want. You can host a huge Tea Party in your garden or simply put the kettle on and share a cuppa with friends. What matters most is that you are there. Please sign up today. It really is so important.”
She saw first hand the impact that Alzheimer’s Tea Day has on families across the country.
“There is no way that Bryan and I would have been ever able to cope without the help of family and friends and the extraordinary support we received from The Alzheimer Society of Ireland and their team of carers who called to our house every week.”
‘Fair City’ stars and partners in life Bryan Murray and Úna Crawford O’Brien. Photo: Mark Condren
Alzheimer’s Tea Day is one of The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s largest annual fundraising events, bringing communities together to raise vital funds for dementia supports and services.
With 64,000 people living with dementia in Ireland, and numbers expected to double in the next 20 years, the need for community support has never been greater.
People across Ireland are invited to register now at www.teaday.ie to receive a free Alzheimer’s Tea Day Party Pack, filled with everything needed to host an event on or around Thursday May 7, 2026. The pack includes balloons, recipes, collection boxes and posters.
Funds raised through Alzheimer’s Tea Day support essential services such as the Alzheimer National Helpline, Daycare centres, home care, dementia advisers, family carer training, social clubs, and Alzheimer Cafés, said a spokeswoman.