For Gerard McGrath, walking through the doors of KingsRiver Community was a simple decision — but one that would go on to make a meaningful difference in his life. Speaking with John Comiskey on Disability Matters, Gerry shared his personal journey of joining the service, building friendships, and rediscovering a sense of purpose. “I just […]
Finding Purpose and Community: Gerry McGrath’s Journey with KingsRiver Read More »
For many people, migraine is still misunderstood as “just a headache.” But for those living with it, migraine can take over entire days — sometimes even weeks — disrupting work, family life, and the simplest daily routines. In a recent Disability Matters interview, John Comiskey spoke with Naomi Thornton from Migraine Ireland, who shared insight
When Migraine Takes Over: Real Support and Real Stories Read More »
In a recent conversation, John Comiskey speaks with Aiden Long, Communications & Strategic Engagement Manager at Asthma Society of Ireland, shedding light on one of Ireland’s most widespread yet often misunderstood health conditions—asthma. What is Asthma? Asthma is a chronic condition affecting the airways, making them hypersensitive to triggers such as pollen, cold air, smoke,
Breathing Matters: Understanding Asthma in Ireland with Aiden Long Read More »
In this episode, John Comiskey and Patrick O’Donnell speak with Lynn Buckle, Community Resource Officer with Chime, about hearing loss, tinnitus, and the vital services available across Ireland. Hearing-related conditions are more common than many realise. Around 30% of people experience tinnitus at some point in their lives, and for 8% it becomes a serious
Breaking the Silence: How Chime Supports People with Hearing Loss Across Ireland Read More »
On this week’s Disability Matters, John Comiskey speaks with Kate Gray, Secretary of Fundraising with Move4Parkinson’s —a community-driven organisation transforming how people live with Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s is often misunderstood. While many associate it with tremors, Kate explains that the reality is far more complex. “There are around 40 different symptoms,” she says. “That’s why it’s
Movement, Music and Hope: Supporting Life with Parkinson’s Read More »
On this week’s Disability Matters, John Comiskey speaks with Funmilayo Akingbade—chef, caregiver, charity founder, and board member of Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living. Wearing many hats, Funmilayo—known as Fumi—brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to her work. By profession, she is a chef working in a nursing home in Fingal, as well as taking
From Compassion to Action: A Conversation with Funmilayo Akingbade Read More »
On Disability Matters, John Comiskey speaks with Roisin Lonergan, Artistic Director and founder of the Five Lamps Festival—one of Dublin’s most vibrant and community-driven arts festivals. Founded in 2007, the festival was born from a simple but powerful idea: to make the arts accessible to everyone. “I realised that many people in the area weren’t
Bringing the Arts to Everyone: Inside the Five Lamps Festival with Roisin Lonergan Read More »
On this week’s Disability Matters, John Comiskey sits down with Cllr. Angela Donnelly, Councillor for the Ongar Local Electoral Area on Fingal County Council and board member of Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL). From housing and infrastructure to accessibility and community development, the conversation offers a thoughtful and honest insight into the realities of
Building Communities, Not Just Houses: A Conversation with Cllr. Angela Donnelly Read More »
Returning to work after time spent caring for a loved one can feel like stepping into the unknown. Confidence may be low, routines have changed, and the workplace itself has evolved. But behind every carer is a wealth of experience, resilience, and skill—qualities that are increasingly vital in today’s workforce. In a recent discussion on
A condition that often goes undiagnosed for years, Coeliac disease affects thousands of people across Ireland—many without even realising it. Speaking with host John Comiskey, dietitian Sara Keogh from the Coeliac Society of Ireland sheds light on this complex autoimmune condition, its wide-ranging symptoms, and the importance of early diagnosis. What is Coeliac Disease? Coeliac
Coeliac Disease: The Condition You Might Not See — Interview with Sara Keogh Read More »
