Billy is a child hero!

Billy Kiely, BT Child Hero, pictured with his parents Will and Christine after receiving his award.

Billy Kiely, BT Child Hero, pictured with his parents Will and Christine after receiving his award.

Billy Kiely (age 11) from Charleville was presented with the ‘BT Child Hero of the Year’ award at the 9th annual Boots Maternity and Infant Awards which took place at a gala luncheon last Friday in the Royal Marine Hotel, Dún Laoghaire. Described as a ‘superhero’, Billy suffers from Hunter’s Syndrome but always remains content and never complains.
The awards recognise inspirational people and outstanding childcare service providers. Speaking at the awards, Billy’s mum Christine Shanahan said: “Billy has come so far and we’re delighted to see his bravery being recognised with this award. In spite of his condition, he is a very happy little boy and a great big brother to his sisters Emma (7) and Maddie (5). He loves technology and is a massive Spiderman fan.” Billy’s dad, Will Kiely, paid tribute to Billy’s National School, St. Patrick’s in Bruree: “Billy loves school so much that his mum and I joke that he must be the only child in Ireland that hates the summer holidays. As a family, we are particularly grateful to all the staff at St. Patrick’s, especially the principal, Mr. Jimmy Woulfe, and Billy’s special needs assistant, Eileen O’Connell. They have gone above and beyond to ensure that Billy has the best school experience, and we’ll be forever indebted to them.”