August 2025

Breaking Barriers, Building Acceptance: Adam Harris on Autism in Ireland

On a recent episode of Disability Matters, host John Comiskey spoke with Adam Harris, founder and CEO of As I Am, Ireland’s national autism charity. The discussion explored what autism is, the challenges faced by autistic people and their families, and the vital role As I Am plays in advocacy, support, and community change. What […]

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Beyond the Myths: How ADHD Ireland Empowers Children, Adults, and Families

On a recent episode of Disability Matters, host John Comiskey sat down with Ken Kilbride, CEO of ADHD Ireland, to shed light on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The discussion explored what ADHD really is, how it impacts children and adults, and the vital role ADHD Ireland plays in supporting individuals and families. What is

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Presentation by "Debra: The 'Butterfly Skin' Charity" on a vibrant screen. A person stands by a table in a conference room, conveying an informative tone.

Butterfly Skin, Strong Voices: Raising EB Awareness with Debra Ireland

On a recent episode of Disability Matters, host John Comiskey spoke with Alejandra Livschitz, Head of Strategic Communications at Debra Ireland. The conversation offered deep insights into epidermolysis bullosa (EB)—often referred to as the “butterfly skin” condition—and the vital work Debra Ireland does to support individuals and families living with it. What is EB? EB,

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Shane O’Brien, CEO of Parkinson’s Irelandv - A man in a suit speaks at an event, standing beside a green banner with "Parkinson's Ireland" and tree canopy imagery; conveys professionalism and advocacy.

What Parkinson’s Is — and Isn’t: Shane O’Brien on Awareness, Support, and Hope

Parkinson’s is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s, and Ireland’s aging population means cases will rise significantly in the coming decades. In this episode of Disability Matters John Comiskey speaks with Shane O’Brien, CEO of Parkinson’s Ireland. You will learn what Parkinson’s disease is, the many ways it can affect people, the treatments and

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A diverse group of people in a stadium stand, smiling and holding large blue numbers "75." They're celebrating an event in a joyful atmosphere.

Changing Lives, Building Independence: Ciara Heffernan on the Work of Rehab Ireland

“Unfortunately, anyone can find themselves living with a disability — it can happen in an instant.” That’s how Ciara Heffernan from Rehab Ireland begins her conversation with host John Comiskey on Disability Matters. It’s a reminder that the organisation’s work is not just for “someone else” — it could be for you, a friend, or

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See My Skills: William O’Brien on Unlocking Potential, One Opportunity at a Time

“See me, see my skills — that’s what we’re all about.” William O’Brien, founder and CEO of See My Skills, speaks with warmth, conviction, and more than a little Cork humour when he sits down with Disability Matters host John Comiskey. His mission is simple but powerful: to open doors for teenagers and young adults

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Beyond the Headache: Pascal Derrien Explains the Complex Reality of Migraine

“People often think migraine is just a bad headache — it’s far more complex than that.”That’s how Pascal Derrien, CEO of the Migraine Association of Ireland, opens his conversation with host John Comiskey on Disability Matters. His words set the tone for a discussion that moves beyond myths, breaking down the reality of living with

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A group of people wearing matching blue T-shirts hold a banner reading "Fighting Asthma with every breath" in front of ornate iron gates, conveying unity and advocacy.

Breathing Through Barriers: Anna‑Marie Bork on Asthma, Inequality, and Advocacy

In this episode of Disability Matters, Patrick O’Donnell speaks with Anna‑Marie Bork, Senior Policy and Advocacy Coordinator at the Asthma Society of Ireland. With more than 450,000 people in Ireland living with asthma, Anna‑Marie brings vital insight into how asthma affects people’s lives — and what needs to change. “Asthma is a chronic and potentially

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Two men seated and smiling in a radio studio. A "92.5 Phoenix FM" banner and "Disability Matters" sign are visible, conveying a friendly, inclusive setting.

Disability Support in Action: Kingsriver and the Innovation Bridge – Gerard McGrath’s Story

“The moment I walked in, I felt welcome.”That’s how Gerard McGrath describes his first day at Kingsriver Community in Co. Kilkenny — this first impression was the beginning of a journey toward confidence, purpose, and community. Gerard recently joined Disability Matters to share his story—one that reflects the real impact of person-centred support in action.

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