Fionnuala O'Donovan, Chief executive, Enable Ireland Disability Services.
Personal/family: Married to TJ Ryan with two children - Eimear (11) and Joseph (10).
What figure from the world of medicine or health do you most admire?
The staff of Enable Ireland for their skills, expertise, creativity and flexibility.
What other career might you have chosen?
Antiques or interior design.
If you could grant three wishes for the health service, what would they be?
I would ensure adequate resources for the entire health sector, draft a different Disability Act and promote integrated services by getting Government departments to work together.
What is your greatest fear?
Snakes.
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one?
Yes, I have been a patient and I believe I was a good one.
When or where are you happiest?
On a personal level, on holidays in the sun by the sea with TJ, Eimear and Joseph or at work with my team in Enable Ireland.
How do you cope with stress?
Watching films and spending time with my children.
What is the trait you most admire in yourself?
Ability to learn from others, honesty and loyalty.
What is the trait you most dislike in yourself?
Inability to stick to any fitness regime.
Do you use alternative or complementary medicine or therapies?
No.
Who or what makes you laugh?
My children and my husband as well as Peter Sellers in the Pink Panther films.
What is your motto?
I have started it so I will finish it.
What is your favourite TV or radio programme?
Talk shows and property programmes.
What books would you bring to a desert island?
Novels and biographies.
(Interview by Fiona Tyrrell)