Joan Kelly, Nursing services manager of the Irish Cancer Society is on the couch this week
Occupation: Nursing services manager, Irish Cancer Society.
Personal/family: Married to Patrick.
What figure from the world of medicine or health do you most admire?
Robert Tiffany, a founding member and an inspirational leader of the International Society of Nurses in Cancer Care and of the European Oncology Nurses Society.
What other career might you have chosen?
Horticultural science.
If you could grant three wishes for the health service, what would they be?
I would establish specialist multidisciplinary cancer treatment centres that are well funded, offering comprehensive care to patients. Ensure there is better communication and integration between hospitals and community services for patients and their families and develop equitable palliative care services throughout the country.
What is your greatest fear?
Not having enough time to do the things I want to do.
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one?
Once, very briefly and I wasn't there long enough to cause any trouble.
When or where are you happiest?
My honeymoon in South East Asia a few years ago.
How do you cope with stress?
A good glass of wine in the evening or jogging.
What is the trait you most admire in yourself?
Persistence and determination.
What is the trait you most dislike in yourself?
My persistence and determination can sometimes be negative traits.
Do you use alternative or complementary medicine or therapies?
Yes, complementary therapies.
Who or what makes you laugh?
Des Bishop and Irish politics.
What is your motto?
Carpe diem.
What is your favourite TV or radio programme?
Playback on RTÉ 1 Radio on Saturday Morning and Coronation Street.
What books would you bring to a desert island?
Of Love and Shadows by Isabel Allende, No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith and Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte.