Patricia Hallahan Head of services, Alzheimer Society of Ireland.
Personal/family: I live with my husband, Peter Benson, daughter Roisin (15) and son Tadhg (12).
What figure from the world of medicine or health do you most admire?
I admire Dr Noel Browne and David Sanders, author of The Struggle for Health, for their inspiring visions of a better world of health for all and the courage, conviction and capacity to follow their dreams despite opposition. I continue to be inspired by people living with dementia who speak out about their lives and the challenges which they have overcome.
What other career might you have chosen?
My career has been characterised by constant movement over 30 years from my first summer job in the X-ray department of the Richmond Hospital through work in the bank, three hospitals, a training institution, and six organisations in three countries. I think no matter what other career I might have chosen, the pattern would have been the same.
If you could grant three wishes for the health service, what would they be?
I would encourage an empowered public. I would ensure there are adequate numbers of competent, well-trained, collaborative staff in the health service covering all areas of the country and each speciality. I would also like to see an environment that was less-litigation conscious where pro-patient, sensible policies are allowed to prevail.
What is your greatest fear?
My greatest fear is to be found out. I am constantly amazed at how much I have achieved, how far I have come and how others continue to like or love me considering how inadequate, imperfect and pathetic I really am.
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one?
Yes, and I was good - knowledgeable and involved but able to relinquish responsibility?
When or where are you happiest?
I am happiest when I believe I am making a contribution, no matter how small, to making this a better world.
How do you cope with stress?
Relaxing in a blissful jacuzzi bath with essential oils, Pavarotti and candles. Enjoying the regular company of peers. Reading in general and my gratitude journal in particular.
What is the trait you most admire in yourself?
Being able to learn from experience.
What is the trait you most dislike in yourself?
Forgetting to trust the saying of middle ages mystic Julian of Norwich - "All will be well and all manner of things will be well."
Do you use alternative or complementary medicine or therapies?
I agree with the Chinese approach to treatment which is if it works use it and I am willing to try anything once.
Who or what makes you laugh?
Remembering funny family times.
What is your motto?
Gratitude for the past, enthusiasm for the present, hope for the future.
What is your favourite TV or radio programme?
I love to listen to Vincent Browne, Playback, Sunday Miscellany and anything on Radio na Gaeltachta, BBC World Service or Lyric FM.
What books would you bring to a desert island?
The Rattle Bag, edited by Seamus Heaney and Ted Hughes, Seeking Spirituality by Ronald Rolheizer, a large, old-fashioned, leather-bound, blank journal and an illustrated waterproof version of How to Survive and Thrive, using resources easily available on a desert island.