Laura Frey and Darren Greenan - Love Knows No Bounds!

Appearing from left to right, Leonard Greenan (Darren’s brother), Darrens’ grandmother and mother, and Laura’s mother and father

Receipt from the family for Master’s financial contribution

During an outing this May with their baby daughter and two dogs in Kilwinning, Ayrshire, Scotland, Laura Frey and Darren Greenan became concerned for their dogs’ safety as they swam in the nearby River Garnock and began struggling to return to shore. Darren jumped in to rescue the canines, and his partner Laura joined to help him. However, with the river’s depth and currents being much stronger from several days’ previous rain, all were sadly overcome in the waters.

Touched by Laura and Darren’s selfless and valiant actions, Supreme Master Ching Hai conferred each with a posthumous Shining World Hero Award in honor of their loving courage. The Award ceremony was held in Scotland on June 2, Golden Year 6 (2009), with UK Association members presenting the Award on behalf of Master. The families of both Darren and Laura attended the ceremony. Darren and Laura between them left behind four daughters: Eight month old Ellis, five year old Rachel, six year old Stephanie, and 16 -year-old Leonie. Master lovingly gave the families £2,000 to help with the funeral service costs. She also gave US$1,000 to each of the daughters along with a selection of Master’s publications, including the beautifully illustrated books The Dogs in My Life, The Birds in My Life, and The Noble Wilds, plus various DVDs and CDs.

The families were deeply touched by Master’s love and concern for them. One family member wrote to Master expressing the gratitude of both families, adding “...my mum has her plaque sitting above her mantle. She has been talking to me every day about it on the phone. I think you have put some faith back in her life…” Leonard, brother of the deceased Darren Greenan who lives in Australia, also received a crystal plaque in remembrance of his brother Darren said, “I can’t express my gratitude enough in an email, but tell Master Ching Hai I appreciate it more than words can ever say.”

We send our deep sympathies to the loved ones of the brave and noble-hearted Laura Frey, Darren Greenan, and their canine companions. May their souls rest serenely in Heaven’s everlasting comfort and love.