Daniel O’Donnell Records Shunie Crampsey Song to Raise Awareness of Dementia
DONEGAL — Beloved Irish singer Daniel O’Donnell has lent his voice to a heartfelt new project in support of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, recording a moving song written by Culdaff songwriter Shunie Crampsey. The track, “Times Change, Nothing Lasts Forever,” was released in the run-up to the charity’s annual Tea Day fundraiser and is already touching the hearts of listeners across Ireland and beyond.
A Song with a Purpose
The poignant ballad, crafted by Shunie Crampsey, explores themes of memory, change, and the fragile nature of time — themes deeply resonant with families living with dementia. Daniel O’Donnell, one of Ireland’s most enduring and loved performers, said he felt compelled to bring the song to life after hearing it for the first time.
“When Shunie played me the song, it immediately struck me as something very special,” Daniel said. “The lyrics capture what so many families are going through when dementia touches their lives. I just knew I wanted to be part of helping share that message.”
For Daniel, who has long been active in charitable efforts and community causes, the project is not only about raising awareness but also about giving hope and recognition to those impacted. “Music has the power to heal, to comfort, and to remind people that they are not alone,” he added.
Supporting Alzheimer Society of Ireland
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI), which runs the national Tea Day each year, has welcomed the song as a powerful tool to highlight the challenges faced by more than 64,000 people living with dementia in Ireland and their families. Tea Day, one of the ASI’s largest fundraising initiatives, encourages communities to come together over a cup of tea while raising money for dementia services and support.
By aligning the release of “Times Change, Nothing Lasts Forever” with Tea Day, the ASI hopes the song will encourage more people to take part, donate, and open up conversations about the illness. “Daniel O’Donnell’s involvement will mean the world to so many families,” an ASI spokesperson said. “He has a unique ability to connect with audiences, and his willingness to champion this cause ensures that more people will hear the message.”
The Songwriter Behind the Words
Shunie Crampsey, a respected songwriter from Culdaff, is no stranger to creating music that resonates. With “Times Change, Nothing Lasts Forever,” he has penned what many are calling one of his most emotionally powerful works. Crampsey has spoken about how the song grew out of personal reflections on memory and loss, but also on love’s endurance.
“I wanted to write something that acknowledges the pain but also the dignity and love that remain,” he explained. “To have Daniel record it is an honour beyond words. His voice brings the song’s emotions to life in a way I could only have hoped for.”
Fans Respond with Emotion
Since its release, the track has been widely shared online, with fans praising both the song’s message and Daniel’s delivery. Social media comments have ranged from “brought me to tears” to “a reminder of the loved ones we’ve lost but will never forget.” Many have shared their own stories of caring for family members with dementia, underscoring the impact of raising awareness through music.
For Daniel’s loyal fan base, the recording is another reminder of the singer’s deep commitment to causes close to people’s hearts. “He has always been more than a performer,” one fan wrote. “He uses his voice for good, and that’s why he means so much to us.”
A Legacy of Compassion
Daniel O’Donnell’s career has spanned more than four decades, with countless chart-topping albums, sold-out tours, and television appearances. Yet, alongside his musical achievements, he has consistently devoted his time and influence to charitable causes — from local community events in Donegal to global fundraising efforts. This latest project continues that legacy.
As Tea Day approaches, the Alzheimer Society of Ireland is urging supporters to host events, donate, and share the song’s message. For Daniel and Shunie Crampsey, the hope is simple: that “Times Change, Nothing Lasts Forever” becomes not just a song, but a catalyst for compassion, awareness, and support for families facing the realities of dementia.
“Times may change, but the love we have for those we cherish will never fade,” Daniel said. “That’s what this song is all about.”