While hard at work, Sham (Seamus) Ryan from Modeligo was unexpectedly stung by a wasp—an incident that quickly turned life-threatening when he went into anaphylaxis and suffered a cardiac arrest.

Thanks to the incredible efforts of first responders, he was airlifted to CUH, where the amazing nursing staff and medical team fought tirelessly to save his life. Their care has given him a second chance.

But Sham’s journey is far from over.

He is now waiting for a bed in the National Rehabilitation Centre in Dún Laoghaire, where he will begin what is expected to be a long and challenging road to recovery. The rehabilitation process will be intensive, and the costs associated—travel, time away from work, ongoing therapies, and unforeseen expenses—will place a heavy strain financially.

Friends of Sham, and the wider West Waterford community around Modeligo, are now fundraising to help Sham and his family with the journey ahead - and this morning (Thurs) on 'Deise Today' they spoke to Damien about it. Friends Michael Dalton and Kevin Bannon spoke to Damien, along with Sham's daughter Clodagh.

You can listen back by clicking on the image above...

This week on 'Deise Today' we're doing a special focus on traffic problems in Waterford.

Once again, the reduced number of lanes on the quays has been raising its head with many listeners to the show - and contributors - talking about how the current number of lanes is, in their view, causing backlogsall across the city.

This morning (Thursday) on the show, Damien spoke to taxi driver Conor Ryan and got his view - and experience - on Waterford traffic.

You can listen back to their chat by clicking on the image above...

Today (Friday, Nov 14) is a very special day for one Co. Waterford family…AND community.

Kitty Brett, living on the Carrick Road in Portlaw, is celebrating her 100th birthday today!

Born on Nov 14 1925 in the townland of Lahardan, Kitty is 68 years married to husband Paddy.

For much of this, the couple lived on the High Road between Portlaw and Kilmeaden.

In 2000, they moved to Portlaw village - and since then, Kitty and Paddy have enjoyed great support and help from their many friends, neighbours and also the team of carers who call to them daily (big shout out to Catherine, Ann and Marie – and also Eileen, Lisa and Stephanie)

Earlier this week - ahead of the ‘big birthday’, Jennifer Long called to see Kitty and Paddy.

You can listen back to some of their chat by clicking on the image (from Kitty and Paddy's wedding day!) above....

Waterford Historian Dermot Power joined Damien in studio this morning (Tuesday) to chat about his new book "The Street Where You Live".

As former Local History Advisor at Waterford City Library and author of 6 books, listen back as Dermot shares insights into the rich history of Waterford.

From the revival of Gaelic heritage to the deep connections of community and culture, Dermot delves into his extensive research.

Listen back to a fascinating conversation as Dermot prepares for his book launch at the Granville Hotel, and discover how this labour of love offers a unique glimpse into Waterford’s past.

Just click the image above!

IT's back!

Yesterday (Thursday) saw manufacturing re-commence of their infamous luncheon roll at 'Countrystyle' in Grannagh after a lull of 6 weeks.

It's had Waterford people talking - and 'Deise Today' listeners reacting - as peoples' love of the Countrystyle 'red lead' is well known!

Six weeks after we 'broke' the story, Damien was at Countrystyle yesterday (Thursday) afternoon, talking to owner Rory Williams, and others, as the production machines starting rolling again!

He also spoke, this morning, to Claire O'Brien, deli manager at Murphy's Centra in St John's Park, who sell up to 40 rolls of this luncheon per week!

You can listen back to it all by clicking on the image above!

Alfie Hale, the 86-year-old Waterford Football Legend joined Damien on 'Deise Today' this morning (Thursday) to talk about 'True Blue', the new book written by Dermot Keyes, which tells Alfie's life story.

Alfie reflects on his upbringing in a lively family of nine, the bonds of community, and how those who influenced his journey inspired him to write this heartfelt account.

With anecdotes about iconic players like Kevin Keegan and Roy Keane, Alfie delves into personal experiences and valuable life lessons.

Just click the image above!

Ballinroad FC in county Waterford has celebrated huge growth over the years, with the club catering for 5 adult teams, 15 schoolboy teams, and 7 schoolgirl teams.

As a result of their own success, Ballinroad FC face an acute shortage of facilities, and find that they are unable accommodate their players at St Laurence's Hall.

Recently, an opportunity emerged from local developer Micheal Ryan for the club the extend their facilities at Kilminnin South, but the Chief Executives Report has not recommended that the rezoning proceed at this stage.

PRO Diarmuid Mooney and Treasurer Ann Ryan from Ballinroad FC joined Damien in studio this morning (Wednesday) to raise awareness about the critical situation that their club is in.

To listen back, just click the image above!

Chef, TV cook and Food Media Broadcaster Aisling Larkin joined Damien on 'Déise Today' this morning (Wednesday), to talk about the power of seeds and their amazing benefits.

Listen back to hear how these tiny super-foods can transform your diet and wellbeing, as well as handy tips on how to incorporate them into your meals.

Just click the image above!

As former Kilkenny hurling superstar DJ Carey awaited his sentencing this morning on fraud charges, 'Deise Today' spoke to Eimear Ni Bhraonain.

A Kilkenny-based journalist, broadcaster and communications expert, Eimear has just published her first book, 'The Dodger', the riveting story of extraordinary rise and fall of the star hurler.

Live from the courts this morning just ahead of the sentencing, Eimear had a quick chat with Damien on her thoughts about Carey and the revelations both in her book and from the case against him as heard on Friday.

You can listen back to their chat by clicking on the image above...

Minister of State at the Department of housing John Cummins joined Damien in studio on Wednesday to discuss presidential election reactions, Waterford Airport and new social housing delivery statistics for Waterford.

Listen back to their critical conversation as Minister Cummins delves into the latest national and local developments, from the recent presidential election and cost of living, to funding for Mount Congreve, Waterford Airport and local social housing delivery.

Just click the image above!