Padraig O’Reachtagain has been named ‘Colgate Caring Dentist of the Year 2019’ for the compassionate treatment he provided to a woman who was injured in an incident of domestic violence.
O’Reachtagain is now based in Roscrea but was reared in Cullohill, Co Laois.
The award came after the woman, who wishes to remain annonymous, nominated the dentist after he repaired her tooth but not only that, he showed her and her children a way out of a violent situation they had found themselves in.
Nominators receive a prize if the dentist they nominate wins. In this case the woman asked that in the event of her nominee winning, the €1,500 prize money should go to Women’s Aid.
The President of the Irish Dental Association, Professor Leo Stassen praised Dr O’Reachtagain.
He said: “Padraig displayed tremendous sensitivity and understanding of the physical and emotional needs of a patient in distress.
“After ensuring the patient had a secure and caring environment, he went on to provide her with excellent treatment and wise counsel. This enabled the mum and her children to escape from a dangerous situation.
“Her story – and indeed her own generosity in donating her prize to Women’s Aid – will undoubtedly inspire others who find themselves in similar situations.”
Another Laois dentist also nominated for an award on the night.
Portlaoise dentist, David Cosgrove was nominated in the ‘Colgate Caring Dentist of the Year award’.
David works and runs Portlaoise Dental along with his wife Karen Cosgrove.
They were also nominated for the team award by their own patients.
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