Throughout a childhood cancer experience, families meet so many people in healthcare who make an incredibly difficult time that little bit easier.

They may be there during treatment, survivorship, end-of-life care or bereavement. It’s often small acts of kindness that families remember – a reassuring word, a laugh at just the right moment, or simply taking the time to notice what a child or family needs.

In September 2026, we asked parents, survivors and family members to nominate their Unsung Heroes in Healthcare. Those people who made a lasting difference to them, often without even realising the impact they had.

We were delighted to recognise our 2026 Unsung Heroes:

Clara Cushen, Healthcare Assistant, St John’s Ward, CHI at Crumlin

Tracey Reilly, Play Assistant, St John’s Ward, CHI at Crumlin

Colleen Byrne, Teacher, Solas Hospital School, CHI at Crumlin

Paul Creane, Healthcare Assistant, University Hospital Galway

Zelda Horan, Paediatric Nurse, Portiuncula University Hospital

Louise Noonan, Clinical Nurse Specialist in St. Luke’s Hospital

To Clara, Tracey, Colleen, Paul, Zelda and Louise, thank you for the care, compassion and kindness you show to children, young people and families when they need it most.

And to all of the healthcare professionals and hospital staff nominated this year, thank you. The everyday things you do are seen, remembered and carried with families long after they leave the hospital.