“These exceptional individuals were nominated by their colleagues for showing outstanding dedication and truly embodying our core vision of People Caring for People to Live Better Lives,” according to John Kelly, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) Interim CEO, speaking as he recently announced the winners of the hospital’s annual Hero Awards 2025. “I want to commend each of them sincerely for the very significant impact they have had on our hospital, our patients, and their colleagues."

The TUH annual awards recognise employees who go above and beyond in their dedication, service and leadership. Since launching in 2019, they have honoured exceptional individuals and teams across the hospital, highlighting their contributions to excellence in healthcare and support to colleagues.

The winners were celebrated at a special awards ceremony held in the hospital's Centre for Learning and Development. Their families and colleagues came together to recognise their achievements and contributions.

Addressing the gathering, Sharon Larkin, Director of HR at TUH, noted how “reading through this year's nominations, it was again inspiring to be reminded of the quality of staff who work alongside us."

"The response to our call for submissions this year was tremendous and gave the judging panel, which includes a member of the Patient Community Advisory Council, plenty of options as we faced the difficult task of selecting the winners. Once again, the process made me feel very humbled and lucky to be part of the TUH leadership team.”

Winners of the Patient Experience Award, the Ruttle Ward Team, were nominated by a family after a prolonged hospital stay by a family member. In their nomination they outlined how they had “some challenging days as dad was very ill, but the care and compassion he and the family received were excellent. The staff were always in good form, even when we were having a bad day, and did their best to keep our spirits up. All of the staff touched our hearts. We would love to enter all of these wonderful people for an award.”

Megan Berry, Staff Nurse, won the People Caring for People award. Nominating Megan, her colleague stated: “In my almost 30 years of nursing, I have had the privilege of working alongside some incredible individuals whose dedication to patient care is world-class. Megan is one of these individuals who has left a mark on me as a colleague. Megan truly embodies the role of a nurse well beyond her young age. She has an outstanding approach to all patients in her care, and encapsulates the core values of our hospital.”

“Josephine comes to work with a smile on her face every day, she is always willing to help and support her colleagues, never mind the patients she is caring for,” noted a colleague in nominating Josephine Diwa, Clinical Nurse Manager 1, for the Unsung Hero Award. “Her flexibility and organisational skills, and her energy are remarkable. It is her willingness to lead and be flexible and to do whatever is needed that keeps our theatre department functioning as well as it does.”

Dorothy Hughes, Administrator Neurovascular Service, received the Service Excellence Award. In their submission, a co-worker explained how “Dorothy goes about her business in a quiet but extremely efficient and conscientious manner, and when the going gets tough, she simply rolls up her sleeves. She is so helpful to patients and colleagues alike and, without request, goes the extra mile. She is an exemplary member of staff who has given a consistently outstanding level of service throughout her long working career in the hospital.”

The Professor Sean Tierney Mentoring Award went to Bernadette Corrigan, Directorate Nurse Manager. A colleague, in their submission, outlined how “Bernadette has been a mentor and support to me since the beginning of my career in the hospital."

"She is always available to answer questions, set the standards across the ward, and make sure they are maintained, as well as encouraging education and professional development. As she has moved into more senior roles, she has continued to consistently support her colleagues. Bernadette continues to encourage, provide guidance, and challenge when necessary, but always instilling a sense of self-belief.”

Clodagh Glynn and Michelle Kissane, Lung Cancer Nurse Coordinators, received the Teamwork Award. The joint winners were praised by colleagues including one who outlined how they were “proud to nominate Michelle and Clodagh in recognition of their outstanding commitment, collaboration, and service to the lung cancer service over the past 20 years. Working in a non-designated cancer centre, they have provided a lung cancer service equivalent to that of larger, designated centres."

"What sets them apart is not only their resilience and professionalism under pressure, but their drive to improve the system itself. They embody the essence of teamwork — consistently supporting each other, sharing responsibilities seamlessly, and demonstrating a quiet, sustained excellence that has earned them the deep respect of colleagues across disciplines.

They are the definition of a high-functioning team and have had an immeasurable impact on patient care, staff morale, and the reputation of our service.”

Describing the strength of the TUH Critical Care Outreach Team as “their ability to function as a cohesive unit while simultaneously integrating into wider multidisciplinary teams,” a nominating submission for their Team of the Year Award went on to describe how they “respond swiftly, day or night, to medical emergencies, always bringing a calm, professional, and supportive presence."

"Their willingness to help, educate, and advocate for patient safety makes them an indispensable part of our hospital’s care network. This unit embodies the spirit of true teamwork - not only within their own team but with nurses, doctors, allied health professionals, and families.

They are proactive, approachable, and always ask, how can we help, even beyond their expected duties. Their contributions have significantly improved the early recognition and management of deteriorating patients, fostering a culture of safety, support, and continuous learning. Their tireless work often goes unrecognised, but their impact is deeply felt throughout the hospital.”

The hospital also presents Special CEO Recognition Awards. Two were handed out during the celebratory event. The first went to the Telecoms and Reception team, who, according to Interim CEO John Kelly, were being recognised “for the important service they provide to patients and staff."

"Their professionalism, warmth, and dedication are the first impression many members of the public have of our hospital. This can be at a time when they are anxious or upset. This award is recognition of work which is often unseen but incredibly important. Their dedication, patience, and organisational skills help keep everything running smoothly.”

The second award went to the Synergy Team, whom the Interim CEO explained were receiving the accolade for “their commitment to excellence in the delivery of Phase 2 of the Synergy IT project."

"They have truly made a significant impact on the delivery of this vital new system for the hospital. Launching a new IT project is no small feat; it takes vision, planning, hard work, and seamless collaboration. The Synergy team managed all the challenges the rollout presented with energy and professionalism. The work they have done is not just a technical achievement, but a bold step forward towards greater efficiency, innovation, and growth for the hospital.”