Waterford local Mary Walsh is named Family Carer of the Year
Pictured from left to right are John Henry, Lidl, Jason Carroll, Community Support Manager, Family Carers Ireland, Cllr John Pratt, Deputy Mayor, Mary Walsh, Waterford Lidl Family Carer of the Year, Jordan Knight, Lidl, Aisling Walsh (Mary’s daughter), Brooke Walsh (Mary’s granddaughter); Corinne McGee, (Mary’s friend), and Lucy Barron, Lidl.
Mary Walsh from Ballyduff Upper, has been named the Waterford Lidl Family Carer of the Year 2025.
The awards recognise the remarkable commitment, compassion and strength of family carers who provide essential care to loved ones every day.
Mary has spent her life caring for others with kindness and compassion.
Having worked for many years supporting older people, she always treated those in her care with respect, dignity and warmth, forming lasting friendships along the way.
Now retired, she continues to give her time and love selflessly, playing a huge role in caring for her granddaughter Faye (9), who is autistic and non-verbal.
When her granddaughter Sara became seriously ill with meningitis at just four months old, it was Mary’s quick action that saved her life.
Today, Sara is a happy and healthy 19-year-old.
Catherine Cox, Family Carers Ireland, said: “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.
“Mary 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.”
