Eunice Power: Grief, Food & Waterford’s Story
While writing her debut cookbook, the broadcaster and chef Eunice Power suffered the tragic loss of her son, Jerome. Here, she talks about how community has helped her through her grief, the importance of keeping meals practical, and the enduring impact of loss.
Chef Eunice Power at home in Dungarvan, Co Waterford. Photo: Patrick Browne
“Nothing helps,” Eunice Power says, quietly. “Keeping busy distracts me a bit. But nothing helps.”
It is just after 9am, and she appears on screen looking ready and relaxed: glasses on, a mug of tea in hand, smiling with the easy affability of someone already halfway into the day. There is no attempt to soften what she’s saying. It’s a sentence she seems to have arrived at through heartbreaking experience.
The Unseen Grief: A Year After Loss
The quote, shared in a recent interview, encapsulates the raw reality of grief following the sudden death of her son, Jerome Power, in May 2025. Jerome, a 24-year-old amateur jockey, died unexpectedly at the family home in Waterford. Eunice Power, known for her work on RTE’s Today Show, has spoken openly about the profound impact of this loss, describing the feeling as “indescribable” (Waterford Live). Her willingness to share her story comes as she navigates the publication of her first cookbook and continues her broadcasting career.
A “Secret Club” of Parents
Power’s poignant observation about a “secret club” – parents who have lost children – resonates deeply. She explains that the shared experience of such a devastating loss creates an unspoken bond, a community of sorrow that remains largely invisible to those outside it. “You don’t even know their story until you’re in it,” she says, highlighting the isolating nature of grief and the difficulty of understanding it without having lived through it. This sentiment echoes the experiences shared by many who have navigated similar tragedies, emphasizing the need for empathy, and understanding.
Remembering Jerome: A Life Cut Short
Jerome Power was remembered at his funeral as a vibrant and energetic young man with a passion for horses from a young age. His mother described him as a “loveable rogue” with a “glint in his eye,” someone who brought laughter and joy to those around him (Irish Mirror). He excelled in various sports, including hurling and skiing, approaching each endeavor with “tenacity and charm.” The outpouring of grief from family and friends at St. Mary’s Parish Church in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, underscored the significant impact he had on his community.
Navigating Grief and Finding Purpose
Power’s journey through grief has been marked by a desire to find meaning and purpose amidst the pain. She continues to work, finding solace in the routine and connection that her career provides. However, she acknowledges that no amount of activity can truly fill the void left by her son’s death. Her openness about her grief serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of acknowledging and validating the emotional toll of loss.
The Power of Community
Throughout her ordeal, Eunice Power has emphasized the importance of community support. The kindness and compassion she has received from friends, family, and colleagues have been instrumental in helping her cope with her loss. This highlights the crucial role that social connections play in navigating difficult times and underscores the need for empathy and understanding within communities.
What Happens Next
Eunice Power continues to balance her professional commitments with the ongoing process of grieving. While details of her future plans were not provided, her willingness to share her story suggests a commitment to raising awareness about the challenges of loss and the importance of supporting those who are grieving. Her cookbook, and continued presence on Today Show, represent a continuation of her life’s work, albeit one forever marked by the absence of her son.