Supporting Theresa in the wake of losing the legend Paddy D

Dear Friends and Family,

I am heartbroken to share that Patrick Delaney passed away on the morning of 10/18/24. More commonly known as “Paddy D,” throughout his life he was beloved by countless, filling so many different roles in so many different people’s lives. For me, he was my stepfather. At a time in my life when I so desperately needed an example and guidance, he provided that. He brought me to my first meeting at 16, showing me that there was a better path than the one I was one. With his continuous help, at 19 I was able to settle on that path of sobriety, one that fortunately continues for me today. He changed my life. My story is not even unique though, Paddy had a longstanding reputation in the Worcester Recovery community of being an uplifting and encouraging force for many in all phases of their sobriety.

To my little sister Theresa, he was dad. But also her rock, her fierce protector, her unwavering supporter, her best friend. As a single dad life was not without challenges, but in an effort to provide Theresa with every opportunity he may not have had himself, he worked tirelessly each day performing hard labor as a mason for a small business he started. His relentless work ethic not only provided a great example for my sister, but also put her through private school growing up. As you can imagine, my sister Theresa is shattered by this loss. They lived together in an apartment in Worcester, following the values she learned from him, she took care of him each day these last few months where his condition worsened, all while going to college. The resilience and hard work is hereditary. She is now in her final semester at UMass Lowell where she is working on her undergraduate degree in Psychology, for which her father was immensely proud. As she tries to finish school strong and begin her career, in addition to grieving a profound loss, she is facing significant financial stressors, funeral costs, and insecurity as to living situation and tuition, etc. Any donation, no matter how small, will go a long way in helping support Theresa through this brutal time.

We wish we had more time with Paddy D, this all moved faster than we ever wanted to believe it would. He leaves behind a legendary legacy, one of resilience, toughness, empathy, unparalleled work ethic, strength, and love.

I appreciate you reading more about the man who had a profound impact on my life and those of people close to me. Any contribution or even a share of this donation page is hugely appreciated and will not be forgotten.