Episode 2 - Jacqui Hurley on Sudden Loss and Sibling Grief

In this deeply moving episode of Parting Words, broadcaster and author Jacqui Hurley sits down with Muireann O’Connell to share the story of her beloved brother Sean, who died suddenly in 2011 at just 25 years old.

Jacqui speaks with honesty, humour and immense heart about the shock of losing a sibling so young, the joy and energy Sean brought into every room, and the ache of knowing her children will never meet the uncle who was “the absolute crack merchant.”

Two nights before Sean died, he and his mother had an unexpected, powerful conversation — one that became his handwritten bucket list. That list would go on to shape the Hurley family’s life for the next 14 years, inspiring Team 109, a racing initiative set up in Sean’s memory. What began as a small act of remembrance became one of the most extraordinary sporting stories of 2024, culminating in Team 109 winning the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship.

Jacqui reflects on grief, sibling loss, the signs that continue to comfort her, and the resilience that has carried her family through the darkest moments. It’s a conversation filled with love, laughter, and the enduring power of legacy.

The episode closes with a grounding breathwork practice from Fiona Sweeney, offering listeners a moment of calm and reflection.

Parting Words is proudly sponsored by An Post Insurance.