Carlow man recognised for 'compassion and resilience ' at Family Carer of the Year Awards

Anthony O’Reilly from Myshall, Co. Carlow has been named the Carlow Lidl Family Carer of the Year 2025 because of his compassion and resilience .

The awards recognise the remarkable commitment, compassion, and strength of family carers who provide essential care to loved ones every day.

Anthony cares for his four sons, each of whom is autistic and has ADHD, while also supporting his wife with her own health challenges including mobility difficulties.

Despite his own chronic back pain, Anthony remains positive, selfless, and full of warmth.

He keeps his family cared for and their home filled with laughter.

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His story reflects the daily reality of caring in Carlow and across Ireland, where love and responsibility often intertwine and where family carers so often put the needs of others before their own.

"Family carers are the silent supporters of so many households across Ireland. They juggle multiple responsibilities, often at great personal cost, driven by love. Too often, their work takes place behind closed doors, unseen, unsupported and unacknowledged. These awards are about visibility and respect for the vital work that they do," Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy with Family Carers Ireland, said. 

"Anthony represents the compassion and resilience we see every day among family carers in every town and village. By recognising them, we are shining a light on all those who quietly care, who continue to give, and who deserve to know that their efforts are valued and understood," she added.

The Lidl Family Carer of the Year Awards celebrate those whose dedication and compassion make a difference in the lives of the people they care for.

They also serve as a reminder that behind every person receiving care is someone providing it, often quietly and without rest, recognition or access to vital supports and services which should be provided by the State.