Gemma is named Laois Carer of the Year 

A PORTLAOISE woman has been named the Laois Lidl Family Carer of the Year 2025. The award presented to Gemma Lawlor from Portlaoise recognises the remarkable commitment, compassion and strength of family carers who provide essential care to loved ones every day.

Gemma has shown extraordinary dedication and love in caring for her mother during an incredibly difficult time for her family. After the tragic loss of her brother, their mother suffered a heart attack and was later diagnosed with stage three cancer. Gemma immediately stepped in, leaving her job as a care worker and putting her own life on hold to make sure her mother was never alone. She now provides constant care, helping with feeding, medication and daily needs and sleeps near her mother’s room each night so she can be there at a moment’s notice.

While caring for her mother, Gemma continues to be a devoted partner, sister and mother herself, holding her family together with quiet strength and compassion. Her selflessness and courage are a source of comfort and pride to everyone who loves her. Gemma’s story reflects the daily reality of caring in Laois and across Ireland, where love and responsibility often intertwine and where family carers so often put the needs of others before their own.

The Lidl Family Carer of the Year awards celebrate those whose dedication and compassion make a difference in the lives of the people they care for. They also serve as a reminder that behind every person receiving care is someone providing it, often quietly and without rest, recognition or access to vital supports and services which should be provided by the state.

Catherine Cox, head of communications and policy with Family Carers Ireland, said: “Family carers are the silent supporters of so many households across Ireland. They juggle multiple responsibilities, often at great personal cost, driven by love. Too often, their work takes place behind closed doors, unseen, unsupported and unacknowledged. These awards are about visibility and respect for the vital work that they do. Gemma represents the compassion and resilience we see every day among family carers in every town and village. By recognising them, we are shining a light on all those who quietly care, who continue to give and who deserve to know that their efforts are valued and understood.” 

Christine McIntyre, senior partnership and events manager at Lidl Ireland, added: “At Lidl, we are proud to support Family Carers Ireland and to show family carers that we care back.”