Cuan Chaitriona Nursing Home celebrates major win for Mayo at NHI Care Awards
Cuan Chaitriona Nursing Home in Castlebar proudly took centre stage at the prestigious NHI Care Awards 2024, held on November 19 in the iconic Round Room at the Mansion House, Dublin.
The event, in association with Homecare Medical, recognised the incredible dedication and care provided by nursing home staff across Ireland.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of Noranna Pierce, assistant director of nursing at Cuan Chaitriona, who was honoured for her outstanding contributions to the nursing home sector. Noranna’s leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her residents have had a transformative impact on the lives of those she cares for, as well as her colleagues and the wider Castlebar community.
Her nursing career spans nearly three decades, beginning with her graduation from Beaumont Hospital in 1995. She gained valuable experience at the Sacred Heart Hospital in Castlebar before taking a career break to focus on her family.
Returning to nursing with a renewed sense of purpose, Noranna joined Cuan Chaitriona as Assistant Director of Nursing over three years ago.
Her mission is to ensure that residents in long-term care can lead full and meaningful lives, challenging outdated perceptions of nursing home care. Under her guidance, residents at Cuan Chaitriona have experienced enriched lives, proving that long-term care can be a new and beautiful beginning.
Noranna leads by example, inspiring her team with her vision, work ethic, and compassion. She fosters a philosophy of care rooted in dignity, choice, and quality of life, and her efforts have created a culture of excellence at Cuan Chaitriona.
Described as humble and hardworking, Noranna shies away from the spotlight, quietly ensuring everyone is cared for and supported while acting as a trusted colleague and friend to all who know her.
With a General Election on the horizon, the event was attended by Minister for Finance, Jack Chambers, who served as the guest of honour. Minister Chambers took to the stage to present one of the awards and reflected on the critical role nursing home staff play in communities like Castlebar. He acknowledged the unique challenges faced by the sector and praised the extraordinary commitment of staff in creating environments of care, dignity, and respect.
The NHI Care Awards 2024 celebrated not only the winners but also the thousands of nursing home staff across Ireland who dedicate their lives to enhancing the well-being of older people.
Commenting on the night, Tadhg Daly, CEO of Nursing Homes Ireland, said: “The NHI Care Awards are a celebration of the extraordinary dedication and commitment of nursing home staff. Noranna Pierce exemplifies the values that drive nursing homes like Cuan Chaitriona: compassion, excellence, and community. We are immensely proud of her achievement and the exceptional care provided to residents in Castlebar.
“This evening was a true testament to the transformative impact nursing home staff have on the lives of those in their care. Noranna’s story, along with all the nominees, reminds us of the vital role nursing homes play in their communities, ensuring dignity, respect, and joy for older people. Cuan Chaitriona Nursing Home is a shining example of what it means to deliver care with heart and purpose.”
Mr. Daly also took the opportunity to acknowledge the support behind the event, saying: “We are incredibly grateful to Homecare Medical, our title sponsor, whose partnership has been instrumental in making this event such a success. Their ongoing support reflects their commitment to the sector and to celebrating those who dedicate their lives to the care of others. I also want to thank all our award sponsors, whose generosity and belief in the importance of recognising excellence in care have made tonight possible.”