Galway’s Catríona Nic Mhuiris from Newcastle has been crowned the overall Mum of the Year in Ireland at the Woman’s Way & Beko Mum of the Year Awards.
Caitríona’s family of four went to eight overnight when she and husband Séamus became guardians to their four nieces.
Her sister Una died from Sudden Adult Death Syndrome and her daughters, ranging in ages eight to 14, moved in with their aunt, uncle and cousins.
Determined to do right by her family, Caitríona (53) went on to take a a diploma in Child Bereavement through the Irish Hospice Foundation to better understand the impact of grief in children.
As a result, her development of knowledge has led to the establishment of Kinship Care Ireland.
Kinship Care is an international term, used by the United Nations, to recognise these children who are in this form of care.
The Mum of the Year Award winners were announced at a special lunch at the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Dublin.
This is the fourth consecutive year that Woman’s Way and Beko have teamed up for these awards which showcase and celebrate the evolving role of Irish mothers and highlights their contribution across all facets of society.
Norah Casey, Chair of the Judging Panel commented: “The true heroes of our society are the mums who hold family and community together, who care for their loved ones, old and young, despite the enormous obstacles life throws at them.”
“This year in particular we have seen phenomenal women lead the way in terms of Irish society, mums like Martina Cox who against insurmountable odds have shone through with courage and determination.”
She added that “The backbone of modern Ireland is the warrior mums who keep it all together and show the way for others to follow.”
Legendary broadcaster and TV presenter Gloria Hunniford, arrived in Dublin to accept the prestigious Icon 2019 Award, in recognition of her outstanding career and achievements.
While broadcaster and author Kathleen Watkins was also recognised with the overall Celebrity Mum of the Year accolade, the award was chosen exclusively by Woman’s Way readers.
Áine Toner, Editor of Woman’s Way said “It’s an absolute privilege to celebrate these incredible women and to let them know how much of an impact they have made on their families and communities.
“Our categories demonstrate the big and small things that women are undertaking throughout Ireland – their only goal being to help others.”
“I am honoured to be in the room full of women making a difference – that’s ultimate girl power.”
Martina Cox, whose husband Sean was attacked outside Anfield before the 2018 Champions League semi-final and who suffered life-changing head injuries, accepted the Courage 2019 Award on behalf of her family.
She was credited with her strength of character throughout her husband’s intensive medical treatment and continuing rehabilitation.
