Caelan McVitty: A little brother with a big heart

The Anglo-Celt Community & Sports Awards, in partnership with Mannok and Kingspan, will take place this Thursday evening in the Cavan Crystal Hotel. Young family carer, Caelan McVitty, is a finalist for Carer of the Year...

Eleven-year-old Caelan McVitty may be small in stature; his heart is anything but. He has quietly become his older brother Oisín’s biggest supporter.

Oisín has autism, and with that daily life often comes with challenges - from sensory overloads to difficulty communicating. But sibling Caelan is wise beyond his years, and over time has set about finding gentle and creative ways to help his brother navigate the world around him.

It started with “small things”, he says.

When Oisín might get overwhelmed or anxious, Caelan is there by his side - a signal between the two that everything will be okay. It could also be something so simple as bringing Oisín his favourite food or a drink - waffles and juice.

Caelan also never forgets his older sibling when he goes away, making sure to return with something he knows is sure to put a smile on his big brother Oisin’s face.

Their bond therefore is one built on patience, good humour, and an everlasting trust.

“He’s very happy, he smiles a lot,” says Caelan of Oisín.

“I think he’s happy I’m his brother. He’s excited to do stuff. He doesn’t really talk a lot, but he laughs a lot.”

What makes Caelan’s efforts so special is he doesn’t see these gestures as anything extraordinary. Even at his tender age has the scope and foresight to know what he’d like to do in future. Caelan has told his parents, when old enough, he wants to train to become a Special Educational Needs support teacher.

Mum Norma nominated Caelan as ‘Carer of the Year’ to highlight his role as not just a brother, but a friend, protector, and every day advocate for someone who sees the world a “little differently”.

Norma is so proud of both her sons.

“Oisín is very lucky to have Caelan, he’s very considerate. It’s a big help to myself and the family.”

She added that Caelan and Oisín have developed a special understanding.

In a world that often overlooks quiet acts of kindness, Caelan’s story is a powerful reminder of how even from the smallest among us can create lasting impact.

He is also a strong example to many young carers who support the wider family unit.

With special thanks to our partners and sponsors in these awards - Mannok, Kingspan, Sherry FitzGerald Declan Woods, Cavan Crystal Hotel, Dovida, Kyte Powertech, CICS Silo Clean and Joe Rowley Windows