About Us
One family’s love,
carried forward
Noah's Story Charity is a Northern Ireland bereavement charity founded by Noah's parents, Corrina and Johnny McAleese. Here you can read why the charity exists, the values that guide us, the work we are doing today - and where we hope to take it next.
Why we exist
Noah’s life and legacy, making a meaningful difference
Noah’s Story Charity is inspired by the life, love and legacy of our Noah. Noah was our first-born son and he had just turned 2 when we lost him. With his bright blonde hair, beautiful green eyes and infectious smile, he brought so much love, laughter and happiness into our lives. He was a proud big brother to Cohen.
Like most little boys, Noah was full of energy, curiosity and a sense of adventure. Our house was never short of diggers, tractors or Toy Story toys, as he was Woody and Buzz Lightyear’s biggest fan. He loved being outdoors, exploring all that was on offer and keeping us all on our toes. Even at just two years old, Noah had a personality far beyond his years. He had a way of lighting up every room he walked into, bringing laughter, joy and a little bit of mischief wherever he went.
But behind his adventurous spirit was a sensitive little man who loved nothing more than cuddling up with his mummy and daddy. More often than not, there was some sort of toy vehicle joining us for those cuddles.
When we lost Noah, our world changed forever. As we worked through our own grief, we quickly realised how difficult it can be to access meaningful support and how important it is for families to have spaces where they can talk, remember and remain connected to those they love, particularly in those immediate moments following loss. We made a promise that Noah’s life would continue to make a difference, and from that promise Noah’s Story Charity was born.
Corrina and Johnny, Noah’s mum and dad
Driven by this vision, Noah’s Story Charity was established to promote grief awareness, support healthy bereavement, and create practical resources and environments that help individuals and families navigate loss.
Everything we do is grounded in Continuing Bonds Theory - a widely recognised approach to bereavement support which acknowledges that grief is not about “letting go” of someone who has died, but about finding healthy ways to maintain an ongoing connection with them. Love, memory and connection continue long after death.
Our vision
A Northern Ireland where every bereaved child, young person, adult and family has access to compassionate, evidence-informed support that honours grief, nurtures connection and recognises the enduring impact of losing someone you love.
Our mission
To provide accessible bereavement support, promote grief-informed communities and develop meaningful opportunities for remembrance, resilience and continuing bonds.
Our values
The values that guide everything we do
Six core values shape how we support bereaved children, young people, adults and families across Northern Ireland.
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Compassion
Responding to grief with kindness, empathy and understanding.
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Connection
Recognising that relationships continue beyond death.
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Community
Creating supportive environments where grief is understood and acknowledged.
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Inclusion
Ensuring support is accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds.
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Hope
Helping people find strength while carrying loss.
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Legacy
Transforming grief into lasting positive change.
Explore more
Where would you like to go next?
Read about Noah and the family behind the charity, explore the Good Grief programme, or find out how you can help.
