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Dad-of-two wins Carer of the Year at Nation Radio’s Pride of Wales Awards 2024

A devoted and selfless dad-of-two from Port Talbot has been named Carer of the Year at Nation Radio’s Pride of Wales Awards 2024.

Held at Swansea’s prestigious Brangwyn Hall, the Carer of the Year Award, sponsored by Delta Wellbeing, honours those who go above and beyond to ensure the wellbeing and comfort of those in their care.

This year’s winner, Eirian Evans from Port Talbot, exemplifies these qualities and more.  

Nominated by Maggie’s cancer charity, Eirian’s story is one of unwavering commitment to his family and community.

Balancing his role as a full-time nurse practitioner on the stroke rehabilitation ward at Neath Port Talbot Hospital, Eirian has shown exceptional dedication providing round-the-clock care for his wife Rachel, aged 49, who is undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Despite the challenges of his demanding job, Eirian also cares for their daughters Ellie, aged 16, and Annie, aged 12, while also finding time to volunteer for Port Talbot RNLI and taking part in triathlons to raise funds for Maggie's Centres.

Upon receiving the award Eirian, aged 45, said: “It’s a massive shock to win this award, and I don’t feel like I deserve it. There are other people in the community who deserve it far more than me. I’m grateful to Maggie’s for putting my name forward. Places like Maggie’s are fantastic; it’s a place where I feel nice and relaxed, and I chat with everyone. They are very, very supportive. I’d be in a right mess if I didn’t have a place like Maggie’s.”

Eirian’s commitment to his family and community extends beyond his professional and caregiving duties. He volunteers as a crew member for Port Talbot RNLI, runs marathons, and competes in Ironman competitions in his limited spare time.

Originally from Ammanford and a former pupil of Maes Yr Yrfa School, Eirian acknowledges the profound impact of his wife’s diagnosis on the family.

“It’s really hit us hard,” he said. “It’s difficult working full-time and making sure my family are okay as well.”

Both Eirian and Rachel are dedicated nurses, a profession that runs in their family, and inspiring their eldest daughter Ellie to begin an apprenticeship in a local creche.

Their youngest daughter Annie is following in Eirian’s footsteps as a talented triathlete and will represent Wales for the third year running in the Inter Regional Championships in September in Mallory Park in Leicester, which brings together the best young athletes from England, Scotland and Wales.

The Nation Radio Pride of Wales Awards, sponsored by Atlantic Recycling, and in support of Prostate Cymru, celebrated the extraordinary contributions of individuals from across Wales.

Delta Wellbeing Managing Director Samantha Watkins was proud and delighted to present the award to Eirian.

She said: “Eirian’s story is a testament to the resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment of carers everywhere who quietly make extraordinary contributions to the lives of others and inspires us all to reach out, support one another, and celebrate the power of compassion in our communities.”

Photo credit: iNNOVATION Photography