Eileen O’Connor (1892–1921) was an Australian laywoman and co-founder of Our Lady’s Nurses for the Poor, a Catholic organization dedicated to providing free nursing care to the sick and impoverished in their homes. Born in Richmond, Victoria, Eileen faced immense challenges from a young age due to a spinal condition that left her partially paralyzed and in chronic pain for much of her life. Despite her physical limitations, Eileen’s faith and compassion propelled her toward a mission of service to the marginalized, rooted in the belief that every person deserves dignity and care. Her resilience in the face of suffering made her a source of inspiration for all who knew her.

In 1913, Eileen met Father Edward McGrath, whose vision to serve the poor closely matched her own. Together, they founded Our Lady’s Nurses for the Poor in Coogee, New South Wales, in 1914. Known as the "Brown Nurses," the organization provided nursing care to the sick and poor at no cost, often visiting people in their homes when no one else would. Though her physical condition prevented her from nursing directly, Eileen’s leadership, spirituality, and prayerful presence became the foundation of the mission. Her profound trust in God and commitment to alleviating suffering left a lasting impact, earning her widespread respect and admiration.

Eileen passed away in 1921 at the young age of 28, but her legacy endures through the continued work of Our Lady’s Nurses for the Poor. Her life of heroic virtue was formally recognized by the Catholic Church in 2018 when she was declared a Servant of God.