Mike Hanrahan’s ‘A River Rolls On’ honoured with Alzheimer Europe Anti-Stigma Award

Mike Hanrahan’s ‘A River Rolls On’ has been awarded with the Alzheimer Europe Anti-Stigma Award, celebrating his work combining music and dementia.

The track was honoured on Wednesday in an event, as part of the European Alzheimer’s conference at Dublin’s Convention centre, attended by over 1500 delegates from around the world.

Shortlisted to the final 8 for the event, the song was voted third at a special Antio Stigma network dinner at The Mansion House in Dublin.

It was recorded in 2021 with the Forget-Me-Nots Choir, directed by Norah Constance Walsh, featuring Mike, Sandy Kelly, Lisa Lambe and producer Aldoc.

Procedes from ‘A River Rolls On’ were in aid of The Alzheimer Society of Ireland. The song was inspired by Hanrahan watching his mother go through vascular dementia.

“The song is a tribute to her great gift of nurture, wisdom, and kindness,” the musician said. “I imagined her life as a beautiful meandering river that began its journey as a high mountain stream. As it gently winds on, the river nourishes the valleys and the quiet places it passes through. Nature sings of her grace and of the joy she brings.

“In Irish folklore, Manannán—the sea god whose white horses rise from the breaking tide—and The Merrows, the timeless folk of the Irish sea, guide and protect those who cross beyond the waves as they move from one world to the next.

“It was my deepest wish that these ancient guides would carry her past the storm of dementia and welcome her to a peaceful rest. I knew she would be safe there. The sense of ultimate sanctuary found its echo in the wonderful voices of The Forget-Me-Nots Choir , Sandy Kelly and Lisa Lambe. I am honoured to be part of a global community promoting equity, inclusivity and together we are breaking down the stigma associated with Dementia. This award is for all of my fellow travellers and the wonderful carers of the world.”

Clare-born Hanrahan began his music career in 1978 alongside Maura O’Connell in the folk duo Tumbleweed. He also spent fifteen years with Stockton's Wing as songwriter, guitarist and singer.

He also served as Chairman of IMRO six years from 2000 to 2006.

He has written for theatre and film, produced three solo albums and performed extensively with Ronnie Drew.