Michael McCormick,Occupation: Chief executive of Down Syndrome Ireland.
Personal/family:Married to Audrey with three children - Hannah (18), Peter (16) and Megan (10).
What figure from the world of medicine or health do you most admire?
Prof Hilary Hoey, head of the department of paediatrics in Trinity College at the National Children's Hospital. Prof Hoey is director of medical research for Down Syndrome Ireland and developed the medical management guidelines for people with Down's syndrome.
What other career might you have chosen?
I am a recovering bank manager.
If you could grant three wishes for the health service, what would they be?
Speech therapy for all children with Down's syndrome, a medical card for every person with Down's syndrome and a needs assessment for all people with Down's syndrome to start immediately.
What is your greatest fear?
What will happen to Megan, who is a person with Down's syndrome, when Audrey and myself are no longer about to support and care for her. The death of Peter McKenna at Leas Cross is a dreadful case of how things can go wrong.
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one?
Yes, I was an accident-prone boy. I was knocked off my motorcycle five weeks ago and I spent an evening in a spinal brace. No bones were broken but I was very sore. I have recovered from all my ailments and accidents - what more could you ask of a patient but get better?
When or where are you happiest?
Tipping along a country road on my motorbike and getting all the corners right without having to use the brakes.
How do you cope with stress?
I play piano badly, walk, read and ride my motorcycle Honda ST1100A (Pan European).
What is the trait you most admire in yourself?
I call it tenacity but others may refer to it as stubborn.
What is the trait you most dislike in yourself?
Patience is a virtue I am sadly lacking. My excuse is that it is a family trait from my father's side.
Do you use alternative or complementary medicine or therapies?
No, I'm a bit sceptical of it. Conventional medicine has worked so far. God bless Lipitor.
Who or what makes you laugh?
Broadcaster Garrison Keillor and the fictitious town he has created, Lake Wobegon.
What is your motto?
I don't really have one. I have a favourite saying though - "It's a great game played slow," meaning don't rush into things.
What is your favourite TV or radio programme?
I like Vincent Browne on the radio.
What books would you bring to a desert island?
Ulysses, War and Peace and the SAS survival handbook.