Glasson woman named Westmeath Lidl Family Carer of the Year
Glasson woman Louise Farrell has been named the Westmeath finalist in the 2026 Lidl Family Carer of the Year Awards.
Louise is mum to Sanad, five, and Nimer, two, who has Down syndrome and a congenital heart defect. After 10 years living abroad, Louise has recently returned home to Ireland with her boys and is adjusting to a new chapter of family life.
Caring for Nimer brings additional medical and developmental needs into everyday life. Louise makes sure he has the care and support he needs, while giving just as much thought to Sanad and ensuring both boys receive the love, attention, and reassurance they need.
Those closest to Louise describe her as someone who has always made time for others. Even while living abroad, she worked hard to keep her close circle of friends connected and remained someone they knew they could turn to.
Now, much of that care is centred on her boys. Louise is finding her feet back home while making sure Nimer’s additional needs are met and that Sanad feels equally supported.
For those who know her best, it is Louise’s kindness and commitment to both of her boys that stand out, and the love and attention she puts into giving them the best life she can.
The annual awards celebrate the remarkable contribution of Ireland’s family carers, recognising the love, commitment and dedication of those who provide essential care and support to loved ones, often with little acknowledgement.
Angela Locke-Reilly, Support Manager for Westmeath said: “Every nomination for these awards gives us a glimpse into lives that most people never see. The nominations are filled with stories of love, determination, humour, difficult days and small victories, and above all, the difference family carers make to the lives of their loved ones right across the country.
“These awards give us the opportunity to bring those stories into the spotlight and recognise the remarkable people behind them. But recognition must come with real support. Our research shows that three in four family carers have never had a break, a similar number are struggling financially, and almost half feel severely lonely. They deserve so much more.”