Finglas teens receive top carers award

TWO teenagers from Finglas were presented with a Young Carers of the Year award at a special ceremony in the Ardmore Hotel last week.

Amanda and Sam Norris were nominated for the award by their proud mum, Antoinette, who explained that the pair provide on-going care for their two siblings who have special needs.

Amanda (18) and Sam (14) get up every morning at 7am to help their mother care for their brother Adam, who has Autism, and sister Demi, who has Cohen’s Syndrome.

“It is a lot for young children to have to cope with, indeed it is a lot for me to cope with, but these two children never moan,

? said Antoinette.

“Demi is non-verbal and Amanda is a great help with her and gives me time to myself. I’ve never met children who are so dedicated to their brother and sister and I know for a fact that I couldn’t cope without them.

?

Amanda and Sam received their award from Sandra Dillon, a family carer who runs a social club for children with Asperger’s in the local area.

Catherine Cox of The Carers Association said the award was in recognition of the sibling’s dedication to their family.

“We are delighted to be presenting this award to Amanda and Sam who are dedicated to caring for their siblings,

? said Ms Cox.

“These two young carers are an inspiration to those in their community and we are proud to recognise their devotion to providing care for their loved ones.

?

Amanda, Sam and their family will be guests of honour at Ireland’s Carers of the Year and Young Carer of the Year National Award Ceremony 2012 which will be hosted by Patrons of The Carers Association and RTÃ? broadcasters, Mary Kennedy and Marty Whelan, on Wednesday, May 30, in the Westbury Hotel.

“These awards are so important for recognising the enormous contribution of family carers who provide care for their loved-ones, often with little acknowledgement,

? said Ms Cox.

“We are very grateful for the continued support of Tunstall Emergency Response for making these awards possible.”