“Selfless and Empathetic” – Ryan Owen is the National Caregiver of the Year 2025

Ryan Owen, a caregiver described as selfless and empathetic who sets the benchmark for his profession has been crowned Dovida National Caregiver of the Year 2025.

From Leitrim, Ryan received the prestigious award at a recent ceremony to celebrate 20 years of Dovida providing exceptional care in Ireland.

Ryan, who has worked for Dovida for a little over a year, was nominated for the award by clients and colleagues from Dovida’s Sligo, Leitrim, and Roscommon office. Having won the local Caregiver of the Year Award, Ryan was put forward for the regional and national competition and had also scooped the Connacht Caregiver of the Year Award before being crowned the overall national winner.

More about Ryan Owen

“I am truly honoured and incredibly grateful to Dovida for receiving this recognition, Ryan said. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all the team here in Sligo, Leitrim and Roscommon. I’d like to express my gratitude to all our clients, who make this such a rewarding and fulfilling job,” he added.

Competition judge, broadcasting legend Mary Kennedy, said it was clear from the nominations that Ryan possessed all the attributes of a natural caregiver. “All of the local and regional winners are dedicated to their clients. Indeed, all caregivers make a difference in people’s lives every day through small and big acts of kindness and service, and it was really difficult to choose a winner,” she said.

“I was struck by the heartfelt testimonials from Ryan’s clients and colleagues alike. It’s clear that Ryan has all the qualities of a natural caregiver. He has great empathy for his clients and their families. His kindness and calm nature while working with palliative care clients, in particular, provided great comfort to people during a very difficult time. He is a truly deserving winner,” she added.

Gentle and Unassuming

“He’s very caring and never in a hurry. I look forward to seeing him every morning. He has a great personality,” Thomas Coggins, one of Ryan’s clients, said. “When I got out of hospital, my mobility was poor, so Ryan and myself started exercises to improve it. After a couple of weeks, I got back on my feet. Ryan was delighted; I was delighted. I would highly recommend him for the job he has chosen to do.”

“He has a very gentle nature and gets to know the clients very quickly,” local Public Health Nurse Tracey McPartland said. “He has a very unassuming approach to his care and is very passionate about his job. I feel he’s very deserving of this award,” she added.

Above and Beyond

Bridget McGrath, General Manager of Dovida Sligo, Leitrim and Roscommon, said that Ryan has consistently gone above and beyond for his clients. “With his selflessness, dedication, empathy and compassion for his clients, Ryan has set a benchmark in caregiving. He has consistently gone above and beyond, providing exceptional care and support to his clients,” she said.  

“Ryan has made a hugely positive impact on our community. His commitment, kindness, and professionalism have improved the lives of many and inspired us all,” she added. 

“Ryan exemplifies what it means to be a Dovida caregiver,” Shane Jennings, CEO of Dovida Ireland, said. “He puts the client at the heart of everything he does, and treats people with kindness, dignity, and respect. I would like to congratulate him on his incredible achievement and thank him for the hugely valuable contribution he makes in the lives of his clients and their families,” he concluded.