Angela Kerins
Occupation: chief executive, RehabCare, and chairwoman, National Disability Authority.
Personal/family: Married to Sean, two children Louise and Hugh.
What figure from the world of medicine or health do you most admire?
I admire people who challenge the status quo, but also provide solutions, like Mary Harney.
What other career might you have chosen?
The legal profession - I love working with law and legislation.
If you were granted three wishes for the health service, what would they be?
High quality, community-based services for older people, comprehensive rehabilitation services and accessible services for people with disabilities which really meet their needs and wishes and allow active participation in society.
What is your greatest fear?
Flying, but I have no choice, so I have to "feel the fear and do it anyway".
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one?
Yes, I've been a patient but not a good one. Many, many years ago I was a nurse, and as we know they don't make good patients.
When or where are you happiest?
When I'm out and about with Sean and the kids on the beach in Woodstown. Professionally I'm happiest when goals are met and a difference is made.
How do you cope with stress?
Relaxing with family and friends.
What is the trait you most admire in yourself?
Leadership and sheer determination.
What is the trait you most dislike in yourself?
Despite the above, inability to stick to the diet.
Do you use alternative medicine or therapies?
I don't, but I would love to have the time to try them out.
Who or what makes you laugh?
Family and friends.
What is your motto?
Take the passion, build the team and make it happen.
What is your favourite TV or radio programme?
Morning Ireland, West Wing and Killinaskully. Sometimes it's difficult to tell which is fact or fiction.
What books would you bring to a desert island?
Malcolm Gladwell's The Tipping Point - I think it really captures how things can change, and it's something we have seen in the disability sector in Ireland a lot recently. However, after a short time I think I would need Desert Islands for Beginners and How to Build a Raft.