MyHealth RCSI

MyHealth RCSI

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MyHealth RCSI episodes

  • Growing up with neurodisability - Exploring care, research, and real experiences at every stage of life.

    When many people think about neurodisability, they think about childhood. Yet for thousands of people in Ireland, including those living with cerebral palsy, neurodisability is a lifelong experience that shapes education, work, relationships, family life and

    ageing.

    In this MyHealth RCSI episode, we'll bring together people with lived experience, family members, researchers and clinical experts to explore what it means to live well with neurodisability across the lifespan.

    Professor Niall Pender, Head of Department of Health Psychology at the School of Population Health, RCSI hosts the discussion. Joining Niall for this important conversation are: 

    • Professor Jennifer Ryan, Associate Professor and Director CP-Life Research Centre, located in the School of Physiotherapy, RCSI  
    • Dr Louise Baker, Honorary Clinical Lecturer, RCSI; Consultant Paediatrician in neuro-disability at CHI Temple St and the Central Remedial Clinic 
    • Vicki Casserly, Parent, Disability Advocate, Public Representative, Community Lead at CP-Life Research Centre 
    • Dr Mary-Elaine McCavert, person with lived experience of cerebral palsy; post-doctoral researcher in CP-Life Research Centre
    • Want to hear more?  

      Join the conversation at #MyHealthRCSI and subscribe to the RCSI YouTube and podcast channels for expert-led content on health and wellbeing. 

      Catch up anytime at www.rcsi.com/myhealth, where you can watch or listen to past episodes. 

      MyHealth RCSI is proudly supported by PRESIDIO. Together, we are creating a space where lived experience and expert advice come together, helping everyone explore, question and understand their health on their own terms.

      42 min
    • Gut health and you - Exploring what works, what’s new, and living well with IBD and IBS

      Gut health is increasingly recognised as an important part of overall well-being, yet conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) remain widely misunderstood. In this episode of MyHealth RCSI patients, clinicians and

      researchers come together to share experiences, insights and the latest advances in gut health.   
      Dr Pádraic Dunne from the RCSI Centre for Positive Health Science hosts the discussion. Joining Pádraic for this important conversation are:  

      • Dr Orlaith Kelly, Clinical Lead for Gastroenterology at Connolly Hospital, Dublin and Honorary Senior Lecturer and Research Associate in RCSI; RCSI Alumna  
      • Dr Sudipto Das, Senior Lecturer, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI; Vice Dean for AI, Digital and Connected Health  
      • Terri Brannigan, person with a lived experience of IBD  
      • Shane Sweeney, person with a lived experience of IBD 
      • Want to hear more?   

        Join the conversation at #MyHealthRCSI and subscribe to the RCSI YouTube and podcast channels for expert-led content on health and wellbeing.   
        Catch up anytime at www.rcsi.com/myhealth,
        where you can watch or listen to past episodes.   
        MyHealth RCSI is proudly supported by PRESIDIO. Together, we are creating a space where lived experience and expert advice come together, helping everyone explore, question and understand their health on their own terms. 

        51 min
      • Travelling for surgery abroad: What to expect and what to keep in mind before making the trip

        We are all aware that rising numbers of patients are travelling abroad for surgery for a variety of reasons. But, regardless of the reason, surgery always carries risk and travelling abroad for surgery adds additional layers of risk. In this conversation, we want to help patients ask the right questions and find trusted information to be fully informed before making the decision to travel.

        From personal stories to professional perspectives, the conversation takes an honest look at the factors that influence these choices and what they can mean for your health. If you’re curious about the realities of seeking care overseas, this episode offers a grounded, thoughtful discussion to help you think it through. We'll inform about what you can expect and what to keep in mind before making the trip. Dr Sumi Dunne, General Practitioner and Clinical Lecturer, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences hosts the discussion. Joining Sumi for this important conversation are: 

        • Professor Deborah McNamara, President RCSI and Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 
        • Professor Helen Heneghan, Consultant Bariatric Surgeon, St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin 
        • Mr Jamie Martin-Smith, Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Beaumont Hospital and Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown 
        • Tracy Byrne, patient with a lived experience of medical travel 
        • Alan Keogh, patient with a lived experience of medical travel 
        •    Want to hear more?   Join the conversation at #MyHealthRCSI and subscribe to the RCSI YouTube and podcast channels for expert-led content on health and wellbeing.      Catch up anytime at www.rcsi.com/myhealth, where you can watch or listen to past episodes.    

          MyHealth RCSI is proudly supported by PRESIDIO. Together, we are creating a space where lived experience and expert advice come together, helping everyone explore, question and understand their health on their own terms. 

          57 min
        • Your healthy heart

          Heart disease affects thousands of people in Ireland every year, but understanding your heart doesn’t have to be complicated.  We’ll be talking about everything from the early warning signs of heart trouble, to what happens during a cardiac event, to how you can live well with a long‑term heart condition. If you’ve ever wondered what symptoms you shouldn’t ignore, how treatments work, or what you can do to protect your heart every day, this conversation is for you.  With insights from cardiology experts, lived‑experience stories, and the Irish Heart Foundation, this episode will leave you feeling better informed and empowered to look after your heart.  This episode was recorded in front of a live audience on Wednesday, 22 April 2026.    Professor Hannah McGee, Professor Emeritus, School of Population Health, RCSI hosts the discussion. Joining Hannah for this important conversation are:     

          • Professor Robert Byrne, Chair of Cardiovascular Research, RCSI and Director of Cardiology, Mater Private Hospital, Dublin   
          • Paul Stoneman, Cardiology Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Beaumont Hospital and Honorary Clinical Lecturer, RCSI   
          • Sharon Butler, Irish Heart Foundation Patient Champion   
          • Stephen Comerford, Irish Heart Foundation Patient Champion   
          • Janis Morrissey, Director of Health Promotion, Information and Training, Irish Heart Foundation 
          •    Want to hear more?   Join the conversation at #MyHealthRCSI and subscribe to the RCSI YouTube and podcast channels for expert-led content on health and wellbeing.      Catch up anytime at www.rcsi.com/myhealth, where you can watch or listen to past episodes.    MyHealth RCSI is proudly supported by PRESIDIO. Together, we are creating a space where lived experience and expert advice come together, helping everyone explore, question and understand their health on their own terms. 

            1 hr 3 min
          • Clearing the air - Let’s talk about air pollution and what we can do to breathe better.

            We’re diving into the impact of air pollution on our health, our families, and our communities. Whether you live in a busy city, care about climate justice, or simply want to protect your loved ones, this is a conversation that matters.  You'll hear from experts who will help us understand how air pollution affects our bodies, and more importantly, what we can do about it. From small everyday changes to bigger policy shifts, we’ll explore practical steps we can all take to breathe better and push for cleaner, healthier air for everyone.   This episode was recorded in front of a small studio audience on Wednesday, 25 February 2026.  Professor Ed Gregg, Head, School of Population Health, RCSI, hosts the discussion. Joining Ed for this important conversation are: 

            • Professor Killian Hurley, Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, RCSI and Respiratory Consultant Physician, Beaumont Hospital   
            • Professor Debbi Stanistreet, Professor of Public Health, Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, School of Population Health, RCSI   
            • Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah CBE, Advocate for clean air, founder, director and trustee of the Ella Roberta Foundation 
            •  Want to hear more?   Join the conversation at #MyHealthRCSI and subscribe to the RCSI YouTube and podcast channels for expert-led content on health and wellbeing.   Catch up anytime at www.rcsi.com/myhealth, where you can watch or listen to past episodes. 

              MyHealth RCSI is proudly supported by PRESIDIO. Together, we are creating a space where lived experience and expert advice come together, helping everyone explore, question and understand their health on their own terms. 

              41 min
            • Movement for healthy brains: Exploring how physical activity supports brain health and empowers people living with neurological conditions.

              We explore how movement and physical activity can boost brain health and improve everyday life for people living with neurological conditions like epilepsy and Parkinson’s. You’ll hear powerful personal stories and learn how movement can be a source of strength, confidence, and connection. Movement isn’t just good for the body, it’s great for the brain too.  

              Whether you're living with a neurological condition, caring for someone who is, or simply curious about the link between movement and brain health, this episode is full of practical insights and uplifting stories.  This episode was recorded in front of a small studio audience on Wednesday, 5 November 2025.Dr Claire Behan, Lecturer and Programme Director, School of Nursing and Midwifery, RCSI, and Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Epilepsy, St James’s Hospital , hosts the discussion. Joining Claire for this important conversation are:

              • Professor Norman Delanty, Consultant Neurologist at Beaumont Hospital, Clinical Investigator with FutureNeuro, and RCSI Honorary Clinical Professor 
              • Dr Ailish Malone, Senior Lecturer, School of Physiotherapy and Principal Investigator and Research Programme Lead, CP-Life Research Centre, and CORU Registered Physiotherapist 
              • Ian O’Brien, husband and father living with Early Onset Parkinson’s Disease (EOPD) 

                Want to hear more?  Join the conversation at #MyHealthRCSI and subscribe to the RCSI YouTube and podcast channels for expert-led content on health and wellbeing. Catch up anytime at www.rcsi.com/myhealth, where you can watch or listen to past episodes.  MyHealth RCSI is proudly supported by PRESIDIO. Together, we are creating a space where lived experience and expert advice come together, helping everyone explore, question and understand their health on their own terms. 

                35 min
              • Rethinking Asthma: Discover the latest thinking on asthma. What works, what's new, and why it matters.

                We’re taking a fresh look at asthma and breaking down the latest research into simple, everyday tips that can make a difference. You’ll hear real stories from people living with asthma, learn practical advice from experts, and discover how to support someone you care about – whether it’s a child, an adult, or anyone managing asthma alongside other health challenges.

                This episode was recorded in front of a live audience on Tuesday, 21 October 2025.

                • Professor Steve Kerrigan, Deputy Head of School (Research), School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences RCSI, hosts the discussion. Joining Steve for this important conversation are:
                  • Professor Richard Costello, Professor of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine RCSI and Consultant Respiratory Physician, Beaumont Hospital 
                    • Joanne Walsh, Practice Nurse at Mercer's Medical Centre with special interest in Asthma education and management 
                      • Colet Murphy, asthma advocate and person living with asthma  
                        • Caroline Madden, asthma advocate and mother to a child living with asthma 

                          Want to hear more?  Join the conversation at #MyHealthRCSI and subscribe to the RCSI YouTube and podcast channels for expert-led content on health and wellbeing. Catch up anytime at www.rcsi.com/myhealth, where you can watch or listen to past episodes.  


                          MyHealth RCSI is proudly supported by PRESIDIO. Together, we are creating a space where lived experience and expert advice come together, helping everyone explore, question and understand their health on their own terms. 

                          51 min
                        • Caring for carers: Supports and stories to help you stay well while caring for someone you love

                          If you’re caring for someone you love, whether it’s a child, an older adult, or someone with mental or physical health challenges, this episode is for you. We’ll hear real stories, share practical advice, and explore the supports that can help carers stay well

                          while caring for others.    
                          Dr Pádraic Dunne from the RCSI Centre for Positive Health Science hosts the discussion. Joining Pádraic for this important conversation are:  

                          • Dr Trudy Meehan, Lecturer at the RCSI Centre for Positive Health Sciences  
                          • Eoin Wilson, supporting a loved one living with dementia  
                          • Tracy Carroll, mother to Willow and advocate for family carers  
                          • Want to hear more?  

                            Join the conversation at #MyHealthRCSI and subscribe to the RCSI YouTube and podcast channels for expert-led content on health and wellbeing.  

                            30 min
                          • RCSI MyHealth Series - Sleep through the lifecycle: a toolkit for resting deeply at every stage in life

                            he final episode of the RCSI MyHealth series 2024/25 explores the crucial role of sleep in our overall health, wellbeing and performance. 

                            Despite its importance, many people struggle to achieve sufficient and restorative sleep. In this episode, we will delve into what happens to the brain and body during sleep, the key factors that influence sleep quality, and evidence-based tools to improve it.

                            We will also examine the impact of sleep on memory, learning, and cognitive function, as well as its deep connections to mental health.

                            This episode is chaired by Dr Jolanta Burke, Associate Professor, RCSI Centre for Positive Health Sciences Panellists include:

                            • Professor Richard Costello, Professor of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine RCSI & Consultant in Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Beaumont Hospital   
                            • Dr Maria Pertl, Lecturer, Department of Health Psychology, School of Population Health, RCSI; Chartered Health Psychologist; Certified Lifestyle Medicine practitioner, British Society of Lifestyle Medicine, and member of the Irish Society of Lifestyle Medicine  
                            • Mr Motty Varghese, Sleep Physiologist, The Sleep Therapy Clinic 
                              42 min
                            • The changing landscape of diabetes: prevention, treatment and supports

                              The fifth episode of the RCSI MyHealth series 2024/25 explores the evolving landscape of diabetes, examining the latest trends in prevalence, causes, and impacts.

                              The panel members highlight the advances in treatment and technology for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, while also offering personal insights and future directions for prevention, management, and support.

                              This episode is chaired by Professor Suzanne McDonough, Head, School of Physiotherapy, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences.

                              Panellists include:

                              • Dr Kate Gajewska, Clinical Manager for Advocacy and Research, Diabetes Ireland.

                              • Professor Edward Gregg, Head, School of Population Health, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences.

                              • Professor Diarmuid Smith, Consultant Endocrinologist, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin.

                              • Professor Seamus Sreenan, Director, Graduate Entry Medicine Programme, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences and Consultant in Diabetes and Endocrinology, Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin.

                                52 min

                              About MyHealth RCSI

                              From the publisher's feed

                              MyHealth RCSI is a free programme of community events, expert talks and on-demand content, sharing trusted health information for all.