Hidden Heroes honoured for superhuman deeds

They’re not in it for the glory but their superhuman efforts nonetheless inspire — which is what makes the 21 recipients of this year’s Hidden Heroes Awards worthy winners.

At a ceremony in Dublin yesterday, the more selfless and iron-willed among us were honoured for taking on the challenges that would make lesser mortals wilt.

Among them was 79-year-old Jim Lawlor from Sligo, who received an award for looking after his wife who suffered a major stroke 24 years ago, and 93-year-old Ann Ennis from Co Wexford, mother to 11, three of whom predeceased her. Ann’s husband was diagnosed many years ago with Parkinsons Disease and for the last 25 years she had been integral to the running of the Oxfam shop in Wexford town where she is the longest serving volunteer. She won an overall hero award.