“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. […]
Multiple Sclerosis Explained — Symptoms, Support and Hope for the Future Read More »
“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
Understanding Diabetes — Education, Support and Living Well with the Condition Read More »
“People with disabilities should be supported to live the life of their choosing — with dignity, respect and inclusion.” On Disability Matters, John Comiskey spoke with Vanessa Martin, Human Rights and Participation Practice Developer with WALK, and Shelley, a participant in the organisation’s programmes and a passionate self-advocate. Their conversation explored how people with intellectual
On Disability Matters, John Comiskey spoke with Shelly Gaynor, peer mentor with Independent Living Movement Ireland, about the philosophy of independent living, the importance of personal assistance, and why disabled people must have the same choices, rights and opportunities as everyone else. Shelly has been involved in disability advocacy for most of her life. Living
Independent Living, Equality and the Power of Peer Support — Shelly Gaynor, ILMI Read More »
“You may look fine on the outside — but inside you could be fighting a battle every day.” On Disability Matters, John Comiskey speaks with Victoria Spillane, Interim CEO of Crohn’s and Colitis Ireland, about living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the challenges faced by thousands of people across Ireland, and the vital support offered
“You have the pain — but you also have the power to manage it.” On Disability Matters, John Comiskey speaks with Fiona Armitage, a Dublin woman living with chronic pain, about a journey that began with what was meant to be a routine operation — and became a life-altering battle for diagnosis, understanding and survival.
Living with Chronic Pain — Fiona Armitage’s Journey from Despair to Power Read More »
On Disability Matters, John Comiskey spoke with Christina Donnelly, National Coordinator at Chronic Pain Ireland, about a condition that affects thousands across the country — yet is still widely misunderstood. Chronic pain is not simply “a bad back” or “a lingering injury.” It is a complex, life-altering condition that can impact every aspect of a
On Disability Matters, John Comiskey and Patrick O’Donnell spoke* with operatic soloist and classical singer Catrina Scullion — a performer whose remarkable career has spanned opera stages, international tours and recital halls. But this conversation was about something deeply personal: family, love, and using music to respond to devastating news. A Life in Music Originally
Catrina Scullion on Music, Family and Using Her Voice for Hope Read More »
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
Community at the Heart of Change — Inside The Wheel with Johnny Sheehan Read More »
“There are nearly 490 people living with MND in Ireland — and every one of them deserves support.” On Disability Matters, John Comiskey spoke with Naomi Fitzgibbon, Director of Nursing Services at the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA), about one of the most complex and devastating neurological conditions — and the vital supports available
Research, Resilience and Real Support: The MND Story in Ireland — Naomi Fitzgibbon Read More »
