An inspirational Donegal schoolboy has been named as the Ulster Young Carer of the Year 2021.
Alex Barr (aged 11) from Burnfoot has been caring for his mum Samantha for most of his life.
Alex Barr (11) from Birdstown, Co. Donegal pictured with mother Samantha and dad Damien Barr PHOTO: Mark Stedman
Alex had just started Junior Infants when his mum took unwell. Samantha was transferred to a Dublin hospital, where she stayed for many weeks, only being able to see family once a week.
For such a young little lad, this was so tough on Alex, but he took it in his stride and got on with it.
When Samantha was finally allowed home, life as they knew it had changed, and changed drastically. His mum is now a fulltime wheelchair user and Alex just stepped up and took on the role of caregiver, when in reality, according to Samantha, it should have been the other way round. She says he never once saw the chair before her – she was still his Mum, first and foremost, and only for his fight and positivity did she get through that time of acceptance and change.
His mum is the one he needs when he’s unwell but according to Samantha, the truth of it is that she needs him more than he needs her. Alex has had to miss out on so much because of his mum’s situation and he has never once complained. He helps Samantha with dinner, dressing, cleaning and all with a smile on his face and he’s really had to grow up so much faster than his friends.
His mum says he’s “simply a smashing fella” and she would love to see him recognised for all he does for her.
Alex Barr (11) from Birdstown, Co. Donegal pictured with mother Samantha has been named the Ulster Young Carer of the Year. PHOTO: Mark Stedman
Alex was one of four young carers from across Ireland to be honoured at the Netwatch Family Carer of the Year awards.
Now in their 15th year, the Netwatch Family Carer of the Year awards seek to recognise and shine a light on the remarkable contribution of Ireland’s forgotten frontline who go the extra mile every day in caring for loved ones with additional needs.
A very special awards ceremony was held in The Westin Hotel, Dublin and hosted by broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan.
Pictured are, from left, Clodagh Bennett (18) from Rosbrien, Limerick Munster Young Carer of the Year, Alex Barr (11) from Drumadooey, Birdstown, Co. Donegal the Ulster Young Carer of the Year, Zoe Gilmartin (13) from Bonniconlon, Ballina, Co. Mayo the Connacht Young Carer of the Year, and Evan Corbally (17) from Hollystown, Dublin the Leinster Young Carer of the Year at a very special awards ceremony held in The Westin Hotel, Dublin and hosted by broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan. PHOTO: Mark Stedman
