education

Two people wearing headphones are on a video call. The left person has glasses and a patterned top. The right person is in a hoodie, in front of a "Phoenix FM" banner.

Behaviours That Challenge: Trinity Study Sheds Light on Children with Intellectual Disabilities

On Disability Matters this week, host John Comiskey spoke with Carmel Doyle, who is involved in a Trinity College Dublin study on children and young adults with intellectual disabilities, and who present with behaviours that challenge. Why this research is needed Doyle explained how her own professional background shaped her involvement: “I’m an intellectual disability

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Alt text: Image featuring a man in a white coat and text discussing vaping and lung health. Includes logos for World Lung Day and Irish Thoracic Society.

Breathing Beyond the Hype: Professor Marcus Kennedy on Vaping, Lung Health, and Protecting the Next Generation

“Anyone who thinks vaping is harmless needs to look a little closer.” That’s how Professor Marcus Kennedy — Consultant Respiratory Physician at Cork University Hospital and President of the Irish Thoracic Society — begins his conversation with host Patrick O’Donnell on Disability Matters. Professor Kennedy joined the show to mark World Lung Day and to

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Radio show poster for "Supporting Every Step: Living with Motor Neurone Disease" on 92.5 Phoenix FM. Features a man in a studio and a woman, Naomi Fitzgibbon, with text: "Don't suffer in silence." Irish Motor Neurone Disease logo included.

Supporting Every Step: Understanding Motor Neurone Disease with the IMNDA

On a recent episode of Disability Matters, host John Comiskey spoke with Naomi Fitzgibbon, Director of Nursing Services at the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA). The conversation offered a compassionate look at the realities of living with motor neurone disease (MND), the challenges of diagnosis, and the vital support available to patients and families

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Sarah Keogh, dietitian with the Coeliac Society of Ireland - Smiling woman with long, wavy brown hair, wearing a white sweater. Her hand gently touches her chin. The background is plain white, conveying a bright and relaxed tone.

Going Gluten-Free: Sarah Keogh on Living with Coeliac Disease

On a recent episode of Disability Matters, host John Comiskey spoke with Sarah Keogh, dietitian with the Coeliac Society of Ireland. Their conversation shed light on the realities of living with coeliac disease, the challenges of diagnosis, and the vital support available for people across the country. What Is Coeliac Disease? “Coeliac disease is an

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Eating disorders thrive in secrecy: A Conversation with BodyWhys Ireland

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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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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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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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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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

“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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