Cork woman named Carer of the Year following husband's life-altering car accident
Breda Morrissey and her husband Timmy: Breda, from Ballyvolane, Cork, has been named Family Carer of the Year 2023. Picture: Mark Stedman
A Cork woman who has been caring for her husband following a life-altering car accident has been named Family Carer of the Year.
Breda Morrissey from Ballyvolane, Co Cork, was applauded for her work in caring for her husband Timmy at the annual awards ceremony in Dublin, hosted by Miriam O'Callaghan.
Following an abrupt knock on the door by two gardaí in 1999, Ms Morrissey learned Timmy became a quadriplegic due to severe head injuries sustained during the accident and a subsequent fall in the hospital.
However, Ms Morrissey was determined not to let this setback define their family.
"Breda, amidst the chaos of hospitals and rehabilitation centres, balanced caring for him and tending to their children at home," said a statement.
"Determined to bring Timmy home, she tirelessly transformed the house by setting up a bed in the sitting room where she slept next to him for years and tended to his every need — dressing, feeding, and providing constant care — a commitment that continues unabated."
"Despite offering her unwavering support to her husband, Ms Morrissey receives no assistance or financial support, no medical card to ease the burden and navigates the complexities, challenges, and hugely physical demands of caring entirely on her own.
"The lack of support meant that not only did Breda worry about basic necessities like food, she was also left solely responsible for arranging essentials such as wheelchairs, bed modifications and physiotherapy," added the statement.
Ms Morrissey has remained an unwavering pillar of support, not only for her husband but also for her sister, who she cared for during a 10-month battle with cancer.
The Netwatch Family Carer of the Year Awards shine a light on the work of family carers, acknowledging their contributions and unwavering support within our communities.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, Family Carers Ireland head of communication Catherine Cox said: "Breda’s story is not merely a tale of personal endurance, but a poignant reflection of the untold sacrifices made by countless family carers across the country. Her resilience and selfless commitment are an inspiration to us all.
“As a society, it's imperative that we not only listen to their stories, but also recognise the indispensable role played by family carers and provide the necessary supports and services to enable them to care safely at home.”
Five young carers were also celebrated during the event, with 17-year-old Lyrath Dooley from Castletownbere, Co Cork, claiming the Munster Young Carer of the Year award, in recognition of her care for her mother.
Conor Byrne, 19, from Wicklow, won the Leinster Young Carer of the Year, followed by Laura Keelan, 12, from Dublin, who was crowned Dublin Young Carer of the Year.
Cillian McCarthy, 10, from Galway was named Connacht Young Carer of the Year while Cameron Mills, 12, from Monaghan, was recognised for his care for his father with the Netwatch Ulster Young Carer of the Year award.
