education

Courage, Compassion and Care: Living with Motor Neurone Disease

Living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) brings enormous challenges — not only for the person diagnosed, but also for their families and loved ones. In a deeply informative and compassionate interview on Disability Matters, John Comiskey spoke with Naomi Fitzgibbon about the realities of MND, the supports available, and the importance of community care and

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Community at the Heart of Democracy: Donall Geoghegan on The Wheel and the Power of the Voluntary Sector

In this episode of Disability Matters, John Comiskey speaks with Donall Geoghegan, Director of Policy and Advocacy at The Wheel, about the vital role charities, community organisations, and social enterprises play in Irish society. Dónall recently joined The Wheel as Director of Policy and Advocacy, bringing with him decades of experience across government, community development,

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Two people in a split-screen video call. The woman on the left wears a patterned blouse, smiling softly. The man on the right has headphones, with a "One Community, Many Voices" banner behind him.

When Migraine Takes Over: Real Support and Real Stories

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

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Breathing Matters: Understanding Asthma in Ireland with Aiden Long

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,

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Supporting Carers Back to Work: Building Inclusive Workplaces for the Future —Caring Workplace Initiative

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

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Coeliac Disease: The Condition You Might Not See — Interview with Sara Keogh

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

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Community, Confidence and New Possibilities — Voices from the Central Remedial Clinic

“Being with people is the most important thing for me.” On Disability Matters, John Comiskey welcomed three inspiring guests — Grace McCann, Simone McWeeney and Daniel Quinn — who shared their experiences of life, learning and friendship through the Central Remedial Clinic (CRC). Their stories offer a powerful reminder of how community, inclusion and opportunity

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Multiple Sclerosis Explained — Symptoms, Support and Hope for the Future

“Don’t try to predict the future — take it one day at a time and focus on living well.” On Disability Matters, John Comiskey speaks with Sorcha Barlow, MS Support and Education Nurse with MS Ireland, about living with multiple sclerosis (MS), the realities behind the condition and the importance of support, education and community.

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Christine Hamilton, Education and Support Coordinator at Diabetes Ireland

Understanding Diabetes — Education, Support and Living Well with the Condition

“Diabetes is a lifelong condition — but with the right support, education and care, people can live healthy and fulfilling lives.” On Disability Matters, John Comiskey spoke with Christine Hamilton, Education and Support Coordinator at Diabetes Ireland, about one of the most common chronic health conditions in Ireland. The conversation explored the different types of

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Johnny Sheehan, Member Engagement Manager with The Wheel - a man with short hair smiles warmly, wearing a dark zip sweater over a collared shirt. The black-and-white image has a neutral background.

Community at the Heart of Change — Inside The Wheel with Johnny Sheehan

Johnny Sheehan of The Wheel on Advocacy, Funding and Collective Voice On Disability Matters, John Comiskey spoke with Johnny Sheehan, Member Engagement Manager with The Wheel — the national organisation representing community and voluntary groups, charities and social enterprises across Ireland. With more than 2,600 member organisations in every county, The Wheel serves as both

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