Family Carers Ireland: Carer of the Year Awards 2019. There are over 300,000 family Carers in Ireland
The overall Carer of the Year for 2018: Brenda O’Connell Barry wasn’t able to attend this year due to some personal issues but she sent in her message which was read by Mary Kennedy.
Twenty-six county winners and four Young Carers were honoured today for their dedication and contribution in caring for their loved ones.
This year carers range from 11years to 91years.
The 2019 Young Family Carer Ireland are:
Hailey Golden; 11 years old, from Mayo in Connacht, who has three brothers with special needs. Hailey communicates and feed them using “Lamh” and “Pictures”.
Matthew McCartin; 17 years old from Wexford in Leinster, who is caring for his dad. His Dad has advanced Parkinson’s Disease with Dementia and currently uses a wheelchair.
Lily Power; 19 years old, from Cork in Munster, who is caring for her mum. Her mum suffers Parkinson’s.
Aine Grant; 20 years old, from Donegal in Ulster, who cares for her mum. Her mum suffers early onset dementia for two years now.
Marcin Filak from Co. Meath was announced as the overall Carer of the Year awards 2019. Marcin cares for his wife Ola. Ola suffered stroke after the birth of their daughter, and locked in syndrome, she stayed at the National Rehabilitation Hospital hospital for 18months, He was by her side every day.
Marcin said his wife thought him every day and she cared for him so now she needs rest and would try his best to care of her. Marcin also cares for his two sons: one of his sons suffers autism.
Marcin said; it is very hard, and gets to sleep only 5-6hours a day, I help my wife with everything she needs, because she’s completely paralyzed. I work 24per7
“I am really shocked, I think I did not deserve that nomination” Marcin Filak
“I love my wife very much” Marcin Filak
Speaking at the award, Ruaidhri Kelly, the Communication and campaign Officer said “The winner will give a trophy, but it is just a title for their great job, its not an easy commitment to give up your life completely. This award recognises, celebrate and shine light on people who care selflessly for their loved ones because its unpaid care”.
Catherine Fox, Head of Communication and Carer Engagement said “Family cares play a key role in alleviating the ongoing problems within our health care system such as bed shortages, overcrowding, funds and long waiting lists”
“Today is about recognizing people like Marcin, people who in most cases give up their own life for their loved ones. It is every much about recognition but also highlighting the fact that many carers struggle because there don’t get the support there need. It is really important that nobody should have to care alone, and the state should step up and takes it responsibilities in supporting people to care of their loved ones at home.”
“We look forward to this event each year which not only gives family carers the recognition they deserve, but also shines a light on caring in Ireland today and the challenges that many face in their roles.
Elohor's Blog 