Disability Matters

Eating disorders thrive in secrecy: A Conversation with BodyWhys Ireland

Interviews Disability Matters /

On a recent episode of Disability Matters, host John Comiskey spoke with Ellen Jennings, Communications Officer at BodyWhys – The Eating Disorders Association of Ireland. The conversation shed light on the complex realities of eating disorders, their impact on individuals and families, and the crucial supports BodyWhys has been providing since 1995. Founded originally as

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Culture Night Turns 20: We Act Campaign Shines a Light on Community and Inclusion

Interviews Disability Matters /

On a recent episode of Disability Matters, host Patrick O’Donnell welcomed Claire McGowan, Campaign Manager for We Act, to talk about Culture Night 2025 and how the initiative is helping to showcase Ireland’s charities, community groups, and cultural life. What Is Culture Night? This year marks the 20th anniversary of Culture Night, a nationwide celebration

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A woman in a black dress, adorned with a floral accessory and necklace, smiles while performing on stage. A double bass is seen in the background.

Precarity Squared: Emily Conway on the DADA Campaign for Disabled Artists

Interviews Disability Matters /

On a recent episode of Disability Matters, host John Comiskey spoke with Emily Conway, singer, artist, and founder of the DADA Campaign (Disabled Artists, Disabled Academics). Their conversation revealed the realities of building a career in the arts while living with disability, the systemic inequities disabled artists face, and the growing movement to demand recognition,

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Johnny Sheehan in a blue suit and glasses stands outside holding a magazine. He has a red lanyard around his neck. The mood is casual and professional.

Strengthening Ireland’s Non-Profit Sector: A Conversation with The Wheel

Interviews Disability Matters /

On a recent episode of Disability Matters, host John Comiskey spoke with Johnny Sheehan, Member Engagement Manager at The Wheel. Their conversation highlighted the origins of The Wheel, the vital role of Ireland’s non-profit sector, and how the organisation supports groups nationwide—including those working with and for people with disabilities. What is The Wheel? The

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

Interviews Disability Matters /

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

Interviews Disability Matters /

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

Interviews Disability Matters /

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

Interviews Disability Matters /

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

Interviews Disability Matters /

“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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A group of people are talking indoors, with a smiling man in a blazer facing others. Sunlight streams through large windows, creating a casual, lively atmosphere.

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

Interviews Disability Matters /

“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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