Graduate creates business idea inspired by tragic death of aunt

A young woman has been inspired by the tragic death of her aunt to create a business idea.

Alannah Pardy, (22), from Co Kildare, who is a graduate of South East Technological University, has created a plaque that can be fixed to a grave which has a unique QR code revealing multi media content about a loved one. 

Alannah's www.recaptureone.ie business recently won the Enterprise Ireland High Achieving Grant Thornton Award.

She said: “I came up with an idea to create a more bespoke experience to capture my auntie Michelle McGlynn's life story and memories whilst visiting her grave with my family.

Alannah as a young child with her aunt Michelle, and uncle Denis 

“My auntie Michelle tragically died from cancer and as a family we celebrate her life every year for her anniversary and birthday in Donegal.

“I created a plaque that can be fixed to her grave which after scanning a unique QR code, it enables us as a family to view several pictures and videos with voice and sound instead of just looking at the standard one photo that is usually attached to graves.

“This was a gift from the heart from me to my family. As this brought so much comfort and joy to my family, I thought it would be wonderful to share this experience with others.

“With this in mind, I went on and entered into the Enterprise Ireland student awards with this idea.

“I ended up winning the Grant Thornton Award out of 5,000 other applications.

Alannah said she hopes RecaptureOne brings some comfort to lots of people.

She explained: “RecaptureOne creates an online customisable memory capsule for people who have lost a loved one, to help keep their memory alive.
"It provides the best possible product to help capture treasured memories.
“It’s possible to view Videos with Audio and Multiple Pictures to tell your loved ones life story which can be watched beside their graveside/ memorial site.
“We have also ensured that each plaque is password protected, keeping your memories safe to those you wish to share it with.
“RecaptureOne allows you to take a trip down memory lane and relive your precious memories with them all over again.”