Late Late Show viewers were left teary-eyed after a 12-year-old autism campaigner spoke about her struggles on the show.
Tipperary schoolgirl, Cara Darmody, made history as the youngest person to sit the Junior Certificate exams in June when she was 11. She sat her Maths exam to raise funds for better autism services for children.
Last night's show saw Cara receiving her results in the studio in front of the audience and thousands of TV viewers. Speaking to Cara, host Ryan Tubridy said: "You said if you got 50% you'll be happy, I said if you got 10% - if you got 1% you've achieved something here tonight."
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When asked if it mattered what result she got, Cara said: "It doesn't matter. I want to help people."
The audience burst into cheers after Cara's principal revealed she had earned an impressive 97% on her exam. A delighted Cara hugged her dad as the audience clapped for her incredible achievement.
"I'm shocked! I never thought in a million years I'd get 97%," she said. "I'm so happy because now I can keep helping those 18,000 children."
Emotional viewers took to Twitter to praise the determined and kind-hearted Cara. One person said: "Cara Darmody is an actual bloody hero. Also, no you’re crying!"
Another person added: "Coming from a family failed by the HSE regarding our brother with severe mental disabilities, Cara is talking more sense than most politicians.
"Her parents must be so proud. Well done, Cara, and good luck in the Leaving Cert!"
Another person said: "What an incredible girl and family on Late Late Show. If ever there was an argument for hearing more neurodiverse voices Cara is it.
"At 12 years Cara understands and is able to articulate how children with autism and their families are being abandoned."
Autism charity AsIAm said: "The amazing Cara Darmody with @RyanTubridyShow after the @RTELateLateShow tonight. Thank you for everything you are doing for our community."
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