Oylegate Woman Named Wexford Finalist In Family Carer Of The Year Awards

A woman from Oylegate has been named Wexford's finalist in the 2026 Lidl Family Carer of the Year Awards.

Family Carers Ireland has announced Rita Dobbs as the county finalist, recognising her 26 years of caring for and supporting her children through complex disabilities and serious illness.

Three of Rita's children use wheelchairs, while two are tube-fed and rely on her for significant daily support with feeding, medication, personal care and mobility.

Her days often begin at 4.30am and continue until late at night.

This year has brought further heartache for the family, with two of Rita's daughters now receiving palliative care. Her 18-year-old daughter Lily has also required months of treatment after suffering serious burns.

Rita continues to care for her 11-year-old son Luke, who has cerebral palsy and requires daily assistance with his mobility and care.She was nominated by her husband Patrick, who describes her as a "superwoman without a cape". He says he wants Rita to know that her family recognises the strength, commitment and love she has shown in caring for their children over more than a quarter of a century.

The annual Lidl Family Carer of the Year Awards celebrate the contribution of family carers across Ireland, recognising those who provide essential care and support to loved ones.

Mark Johnston, Support Manager at Family Carers Ireland, says the awards provide an opportunity to highlight the stories of family carers and the difference they make to their loved ones.

However, he says recognition must also be accompanied by practical support.

The organisation's 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.

Maeve McCleane, Chief People Officer at Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, congratulated Rita on being named Wexford's finalist, saying the partnership with Family Carers Ireland aims to recognise the vital contribution of carers and raise greater awareness of the realities they face.