Heroic Andrew McEleney, 13, from Clonmany is named as Young Carer of the Year

Thirteen-year-old Andrew McEleney from Clonmany has been named as they Netwatch Ulster Young Carer of the Year.

Andrew helps to care for his brother Jack, who needs 24/7 care. Jack is non-verbal, suffers seizures and has an intellectual disability.

From an early age, Andrew always included his brother in games and activities even when it meant the games had to be changed to suit Jack's needs. He helps with his daily routine and is always trying to teach him new things. Last summer, Andrew saved Jack’s life by contacting the emergency services and administrating life-saving medication.

His mother Jenny says the family would be lost without Andrew and that they are immensely proud of him. Andrew was presented with an award at a national awards ceremony held in The Westin Hotel, Dublin and hosted by broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan. Colette O’Shea from Lisnagry, Limerick was named Netwatch Family Carer of the Year.

The Netwatch Family Carer of the Year Awards seek to recognise and shine a light on the love, sacrifice and extraordinary commitment of the more than 500,000 family carers across the country who provide crucial care at home to loved ones with additional needs.

“Although these awards highlight the remarkable dedication of a few, we’re really honouring all of Ireland’s family carers who go the extra mile every day in caring for their loved ones at home,”  Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy, Family Carers Ireland, said. 

“Their stories are ones of love, kindness, empathy and selflessness. As a society, we must ensure that we listen to those stories, that we recognise the essential contribution made by family carers and that they are truly supported to care safely at home.

“As a charity, we firmly believe that no one should have to care alone. We want family carers to know that they are not alone and that we are here to help them no matter where they find themselves on their caring journey.”