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 […]
Breaking Barriers, Building Acceptance: Adam Harris on Autism in Ireland Read More »
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
Beyond the Myths: How ADHD Ireland Empowers Children, Adults, and Families Read More »
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,
Butterfly Skin, Strong Voices: Raising EB Awareness with Debra Ireland Read More »
“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
Changing Lives, Building Independence: Ciara Heffernan on the Work of Rehab Ireland Read More »
“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
See My Skills: William O’Brien on Unlocking Potential, One Opportunity at a Time Read More »
“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
Beyond the Headache: Pascal Derrien Explains the Complex Reality of Migraine Read More »
“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.
In a special episode of Disability Matters, John Comiskey welcomed two inspiring guests from Gaisce – The President’s Award: Joy Winston, Development Officer for North Dublin and Wicklow, and Conor Dillon, a 2025 Youth Ambassador and the first wheelchair user to hold this position. Gaisce celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Since 1985, the programme
Discover Gaisce: The President’s Award for Youth Achievement Read More »
BCIL Celebrates with Local Champions and Co-founder Gerry Murray On Friday, July 25th, Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL) proudly took part in the official launch of You First, a peer-led mental health café based in St. Brigid’s Community Centre, Church Road, Blanchardstown. Although You First has been operating quietly for the past two years,
We recently had the chance to sit down with some of the amazing people behind Enable Ireland’s virtual service—a growing and powerful initiative that’s changing the way we think about disability supports in Ireland. In this episode of Disability Matters John Comiskey speaks with Jason, Valerie, and Pádraig, three passionate people who’ve helped build something
Revolutionizing Disability Support: Enable Ireland’s Virtual Services Read More »
