Ann Heelan, Executive director of Ahead, an organisation that promotes education and employment access for people with disabilities.
Personal/family:Married to Mike with two grown-up sons.
What figure from the world of medicine or health do you most admire?
Dr Ivor Brown, a psychiatrist, and Tony Bates. They both promote positive attitudes and mental wellbeing for people with mental health problems. They demystify the whole area.
What other career might you have chosen?
I'd have loved to have been a chef or a horticulturalist.
If you could grant three wishes for the health service, what would they be?
I would introduce a joined-up approach to health service provision, I would then get rid of waiting lists and provide more nurses.
What is your greatest fear?
I'm claustrophobic, so I don't like being in lifts or aeroplanes.
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one?
No, I haven't really ever been a patient but I'd imagine if I was, I'd be very demanding.
When or where are you happiest?
On holidays in Sarzeau, Morbihan, in the north of France.
How do you cope with stress?
To be honest, with a couple of glasses of Sauvignon Blanc. I also read and walk to counteract stress.
What is the trait you most admire in yourself?
I stick with things and am good with people.
What is the trait you most dislike in yourself?
I find it very hard to say no and spend too much time at work.
Do you use alternative or complementary medicine or therapies?
No, but I would if I needed to.
Who or what makes you laugh?
Mike always makes me laugh, he has a quirky sense of humour.
What is your motto?
My mother always said "enjoy life now and don't wait for the boat to come in".
What is your favourite TV or radio programme?
Carol Coleman on Newstalk and The Apprentice on TV.
What books would you bring to a desert island?
A compendium of Shakespeare plays, some books by Jane Austen and John McGahern and a book on how to paint and some paints and paper.