Mary, 11, wins carer award

SHE may have just been presented with a national award thanks to her selfless devotion to her little sister, but an appearance on TV’s The Den was of more concern to Mary Condon-O’Connor yesterday afternoon.

The Cahir girl was named as Young Carer of the Year at the weekend, for her help with her autistic sister Aine, but the recognition she really craved came courtesy of the RTÉ children’s show.

“I always watch The Den so it’s great to be appearing on it,” she said yesterday.

Mary was nominated for the award by a neighbour, thanks to her tireless devotion to Aine over the past few years.

“I play with her on the physio ball and we watch DVDs and we go out for walks and I’m training her snow on the trampoline and the swing,” said Mary. “I didn’t think I’d be getting an award for it.”

Her mother, also Mary, said the whole family is very proud of the 11-year-old. “Aine is autistic and mostly non-verbal, but she can communicate her needs with Mary. They have a special bond between them and they both love music.”

Young Mary was presented with her award at a special ceremony in the Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, in Dublin. “She’s just taking it all in her stride,” said her mother yesterday.

South Tipperary Carers’ Association director Richie Molloy said yesterday that it was important for young carers to be known for their contribution to the community. “There are a lot of young carers out there and there’s very little recognition,” he said.

According to the Carers’ Association, she was nominated as Ireland’s Young Carer of the Year for the central role she plays in Áine’s growth and development, showing a high degree of sensitivity to the needs of her sister.

Mary, a pupil of Our Lady of Mercy primary school in Cahir, has always encouraged Áine to play with her friends and helped her to read, as well as helping with the medication and physiotherapy. Aine herself attends Scoil Aonghusa in Cashel.