The skies stayed blue for the Family Carers Ireland Step Up walk on Sunday morning! The fun event, held in the Castle Park, was one of a series of events held across the country to raise awareness of family carers.carers. Many families and supporters joined in with the Step Up for Family Carers leisurely 5km walk. The event was not a race or a fitness challenge - it was a moment of solidarity, support, and recognition. Rugby legend Mick Galwey helped launch the event, saying: “Caring can be isolating, and too many family carers feel forgotten. This walk is a simple but powerful way to send a clear message: ‘We see you. We support you. You are not alone.’” Every day, Ireland’s 500,000 family carers provide unwavering support to loved ones - often without recognition or adequate support. Now, it’s time for Ireland to step up for them. This nationwide event will raise vital funds and awareness to ensure that Family Carers Ireland can continue to be there for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. Scroll down to start our photo gallery and use the arrows to see more photographs. Pictured below: The Grace Family outside Kilkenny Castle for the Family Carers Ireland Step Up walk PICTURE Vicky Comerford Below: The McCormack and McCarty Family PICTURE Vicky Comerford. Family carer Lisa McCormack, who cares for her six-year-old son Rian, understands how much this show of support means: “Caring for a child with additional needs can be demanding, exhausting and, at times, isolating. The challenges can be overwhelming, and that’s why support matters. I’m so grateful for my friends and family, and I hope this walk encourages more people to stand with carers. “By taking part, people are sending a powerful message - we are seen, we are valued, and we are not alone. This isn’t just about raising funds; it’s about recognition, visibility and ensuring no carer is ever forgotten. That kind of support makes all the difference.” Below: Kevin Mcgarry, Niamh Mcgarry, Martina Mcgarry, Mcgarry and Austin Lawless PICTURE Vicky Comerford Family Carers Ireland want carers to know they have the support they need to care safely, to make it less of a battle and to know they are not alone. They are the national charity supporting the 500,000+ family and young carers across the country who care for loved ones such as children or adults with additional needs, physical or intellectual disabilities, frail older people, those with palliative care needs or those living with chronic illnesses, mental health challenges or addiction. Their vision is an Ireland in which family carers and young carers are properly recognised, supported and empowered. Their mission is to highlight the contribution of family carers to Irish society and to improve the lives of family carers throughout the country. We believe that no one should have to care alone. Below: Byrne, Kathleen Tynan, and Lisa walsh PICTURE Vicky Comerford As a not-for-profit organisation, Family Carers Ireland support family carers and young carers through the provision of free emergency care planning, counselling, specialised training and education programmes, wellbeing support, crisis management, emergency respite/respite provision, advocacy, peer support groups, information on rights and entitlements and many other worthwhile initiatives. Below: Shelagh, Mairin, Eamon and Anna PICTURE Vicky Comerford