Derry Credit Union - Carer Award 2024
The Derry Credit Union Young People's Award scheme, now in its 19th year, recognizes the outstanding work, accomplishments, courage, and generosity of our local young people
The Derry Credit Union Young People’s Awards took place on Monday, 25th March, in the City Hotel.
The awards scheme, now in its 19th year, recognizes the outstanding work, accomplishments, courage, and generosity of our local young people. It is open to all aged from 11 through 18 who live or attend school in the BT47 and BT48 post code areas.
This year, 90 nominations were received from 10 post-primary schools, sporting teams, family, and friends. 17 individuals and 7 groups were recognized as runners-up or winners across 8 award categories.
Congratulations to all the nominees, runners-up, and winners.
Carer Award Winner - Conor Roberts Lynch
The Carer Award Winner was Conor Roberts Lynch. In the summer of 2023, Conor's twin brother Adam experienced a severe accident that resulted in a life-altering back injury.
Adam spent six weeks as an inpatient at the Stoke Mandeville Spinal Cord Injury Unit in London.
During this time, Conor and his 19-year-old sister Katie took care of their 3-year-old sister Sophia at home.
Despite his worry and anxiety for his brother, Conor remained strong and resilient for the sake of his family.
It was challenging for Conor to continue with daily activities without Adam, as they had always been together.
Before Adam's return home, Conor made sure that the house was suitable for his brother’s needs, making necessary adjustments with the help of friends and family. Since Adam couldn't immediately return to school, Conor brought home schoolwork and helped him catch up on missed assignments. Conor also organized gatherings with their friends at their house to play Xbox and socialize.
Conor prioritises Adam's emotional wellbeing, providing a listening ear for his twin and relaying information to his parents so that they can get the correct help and support for Adam when needed.
Conor is a resilient, caring, empathetic and kind young man who is an inspiration and role model for other young men and adults alike.
Carer Award Runner-Up - Mary-Kate Tierney
Carer Award runner-up Mary-Kate Tierney cares for her mother who was recently diagnosed with fibromyalgia and her younger brother who, like Mary-Kate, suffers from lymphoedema. Lymphoedema is a condition that creates physical discomfort and daily challenges.
Mary-Kate approaches each day with a positive attitude, and advocates for greater understanding and knowledge of her condition.
Mary-Kate is a pillar of strength and support for her family and demonstrates a maturity and resilience beyond her years.
Carer Award Runner-Up - Marcus Swerdlick
Without complaint or seeking praise, Carer Award runner-up Marcus Swerdlick cares for his father who suffers from Motor Neurone Disease.
He helps with the daily running of their household and ensures his father is comfortable and supported.
He has had to quickly learn to cook, clean and care for himself and his father. Marcus' resilience is even more notable, given that he does all this whilst also coping with the recent unexpected death of his mother.
In school, Marcus’s quick wit and humble personality endears him to all.
He is always willing to listen to advice and thrives on praise and encouragement.