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A Gay Dads Journey From Childhood in Rural Ireland to Marraige and Family Life
A Gay Dads Journey From Childhood in Rural Ireland to Marraige and Family Life with Seamus Kearney Martone.
I found this episode hugely insightful, to think we grew up in the same town but had such different experiences. Castlerea is a wonderful locality and community, but like any rural Irish town in the 1980's and 1990's, fear of anything other than a conventional relationship was an underlying current. It wasn't out of hate in my view, it was out of lack of exposure and diversity. Anyone who was in any way 'not the norm' left town as soon as they could to find a peer group they felt at home with, so people never got used to diversity within the community.
Castlerea is a place I am proud to call home, and like most towns it is now mostly a diverse and welcoming community. I was always unaware of how Seamus or anyone else may have felt growing up in Castlerea, it didn't occur to me and I remained oblivious. The world has moved on, technology supports awareness and diversity, I love to see people expressing themselves truthfully and openly. I am concerned that with rising levels of hate globally we may end up going backwards - and that is why pride month is so so important! Never tolerate hate. Love between one person and another is a beautiful thing and quite frankly doesn't concern you unless you are one of them! Lets embrace differences of sexuality, culture, and beliefs so that no community feels oppressed - there is room for us all and we learn from each other.
Find Irish Gay Dads here!
I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus Especially during hay fever season!! This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!
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 - 7. Blocked Noses Sorted in 10 mins!10:12||Season 13, Ep. 7Effective Strategies for Managing Children's Nasal CongestionIn this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mother of three, discusses various strategies to manage nasal congestion in children, particularly during the school season when viruses are rampant. She provides an array of advice, from utilizing saline nasal sprays and humidifiers to practical tips like inclining beds and maintaining good hydration. Sheena also emphasizes the importance of identifying potential allergies and the benefits of the flu vaccine. Additionally, she shares information about natural remedies and appropriate use of decongestant products for older children. This episode is packed with practical recommendations to help keep your child comfortable and healthy.00:00 Introduction and Overview00:11 Understanding Congestion in Children01:03 Saline Nasal Sprays: A Natural Solution01:42 Additional Products for Congestion Relief02:33 Tips for Nighttime Relief02:44 Using Humidifiers and Vapor Oils04:06 Nasal Aspirators and Other Techniques04:45 Hydration and Hygiene05:22 When to See a Doctor05:39 Allergies and Other Causes of Congestion05:56 Using the Salon Plus Device07:28 Combining Methods for Best Results08:50 Non-Natural Decongestants09:18 Flu Vaccine for Children09:52 Conclusion and FarewellProduct links as promised!Calpol saline nasal sprayCalpol Blocked Nose SpraySudafed decongestand nasal sprayCirrus HumidifierSalin plusSterimar rangeFollow Sheena on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wondercare_irlSupport this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#congestion #blockednose #snottynose #kidshealth #winterhealth #covid #fluseason #fluvaccine #nasalfluvaccine #covidvaccine #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem #universalhealthcare
 - 6. What is Covid like right now? Including vaccine eligibility info!09:33||Season 13, Ep. 6The Importance of COVID-19 Vaccination: Sheena's Personal Experience and Health AdviceIn this episode, Sheena explains why she was unable to speak with the audience last week, detailing her recent battle with COVID-19. She shares her personal experience of contracting the virus for the first time since the pandemic began, emphasizing the severity of her symptoms and the slow recovery process. Sheena discusses the crucial role of COVID-19 vaccines, especially for those with weak immune systems like herself. She offers guidance on who should get vaccinated, the recommended frequency of vaccination, and stresses the importance of making informed decisions to protect oneself and others during the autumn and winter months.00:00 My COVID-19 Experience: The First Time in 5.5 Years00:23 The Onset of Symptoms: A Tough Week01:42 The Importance of Vaccination: My Personal Plea04:04 Who Should Get Vaccinated: Key Recommendations05:04 Guidance on COVID-19 Vaccination Frequency05:46 Healthcare Workers and Pregnant Women: Special Considerations06:15 Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy: Safety and Efficacy06:44 Protecting Yourself This Autumn and Winter07:19 Praising the Health Service: Free Vaccines for All08:10 Final Thoughts: My Personal Story and Call to ActionFollow Sheena on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wondercare_irlSupport this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#winterhealth #covid #fluseason #fluvaccine #nasalfluvaccine #covidvaccine #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem #universalhealthcare
 - 5. Glandular Fever - Is it actually the kissing disease?09:53||Season 13, Ep. 5Understanding Glandular Fever: Symptoms, Treatment, and RecoveryIn this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mom of three, discusses glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis. She covers how the Epstein-Barr virus causes it, common symptoms such as fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and extreme fatigue, and the means of transmission. Sheena explains the significance of the incubation period, diagnosis methods, and the general lack of effective antiviral or antibiotic treatments. She also advises on when to seek medical help and offers guidance on returning to school, work, and sports while emphasizing the need to avoid potential spleen injuries. Additionally, Sheena touches on the importance of hand hygiene, avoiding alcohol, and the restrictions on blood donation post-infection.00:00 Introduction to Glandular Fever00:43 Understanding Glandular Fever01:29 Transmission and Stigma02:43 Symptoms and When to See a Doctor04:24 Diagnosis of Glandular Fever05:12 Treatment and Recovery06:52 Returning to Normal Activities07:41 Special Considerations09:25 Conclusion and Additional Resources#kissingdisease #glandularfever #mononucleosis #mono #epsteinbarr #epsteinbarrvirus #sorethroat #pharmacist #irishpharmacist #irishhealth #irishhealthpodcast #irishpharmacy #healthireland #sheenamitchell
 - 4. Kids & Flu - To Vaccinate or Not? Myth busting and fact checking!14:35||Season 13, Ep. 4Understanding the Children's Flu Vaccine with Pharmacist Sheena MitchellIn this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mother of three, discusses the importance of the children's flu vaccine. She provides insights on the benefits and safety of the vaccine, busts myths surrounding it, and explains why it's essential to vaccinate children annually. Sheena also shares information about the flu strains, the administration of the nasal spray, its effectiveness, and what to expect post-vaccination. She emphasizes the significance of making informed decisions and offers contact details for further questions.00:00 Introduction to the Children's Flu Vaccine01:43 Why Vaccinate Your Child Against Flu?02:24 Understanding the Flu Vaccine05:15 Annual Vaccination and Flu Variants07:46 Eligibility and Special Cases11:35 What to Expect After Vaccination13:26 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationFollow Sheena on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wondercare_irlSupport this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#winterhealth #flu #fluseason #fluvaccine #nasalfluvaccine #backtoschool #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem
 - 3. Immune System Support for Kids and Teens!30:48||Season 13, Ep. 3Boosting Your Child's Immune Health for the School year!In this episode, Sheena dives into the complexities of supporting children's immune health as colds, flus, RSV, and COVID become more prevalent in the autumn and winter months. She discusses practical lifestyle tips, the role of multivitamins, and the importance of holistic health. Emphasising key elements like sleep, hydration, and hand hygiene, Sheena also explains the benefits and sources of essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, C, D, E, and Zinc. To help parents navigate the highly marketed world of children's multivitamins, she compares various products based on their nutritional content, spotlighting those best suited for immune support. Concluding with actionable advice, she aims to equip parents with the knowledge to make informed choices for their children's health.00:00 Introduction to Immune Health for Children00:49 The Importance of Multivitamins02:12 Marketing Myths and Realities04:20 Core Pillars of Children's Health08:37 Vitamins and Minerals for Immune Support15:51 Diet vs. Supplements25:31 Top Multivitamin Recommendations29:45 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsShop Vitamins with Sheena - www.wondercare.ieFollow Sheena on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wondercare_irlSupport this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show! #multivitamins #bestvitamins #immunehealth #winterhealth #backtoschool #viviojunior #vitabioticswellkid #vitabioticswellteen #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem
 - 2. Organising Chaos During Term Time! Tips from Professional Organiser Ann Teehan35:02||Season 13, Ep. 2Organising Chaos: Tips from a Professional OrganiserIn this episode, Sheena is joined by Ann Teehan, a professional organiser, who shares practical tips for managing a busy household. Anne discusses her own experiences with a large family and offers strategies for organising spaces, establishing routines, and maintaining systems to reduce stress. She emphasises the importance of evening resets, handling seasonal wardrobe changes, and creating efficient homework and storage solutions. Anne also addresses the value of starting small and tailoring organisational systems to individual family needs.00:00 Introduction to Ann Teehan: Professional Organizer00:44 Ann's Personal Journey and Professional Experience02:21 Back-to-School Organisation Tips03:44 Setting Up Effective Routines for Kids05:54 Managing School Paperwork and Forms09:21 Homework and Study Area Solutions12:53 Organising Kids' Sports Gear and Toys15:56 Seasonal Clothing Management for Kids18:13 Evaluating and Adopting New Systems20:08 Maintaining Motivation and Evening Resets21:55 Decluttering and Meal Planning23:13 Practical Tips for Home Organisation24:55 Realistic Approaches to Decluttering28:56 Professional Organising Services33:21 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationCheck out Ann's website!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#irishpodcast #sheenamitchell #annteehan #neatly.ie #decluttering #organisation #backtoschool #mealplanning #kidsroutines #familylife #parentingpodcast
 - 1. RSV Immunisation Catch up Programme!15:00||Season 13, Ep. 1RSV Immunisation Update: Inclusion of Catchup Cohort and New DevelopmentsIn this episode, Sheena explains the recent updates on the RSV immunisation program in Ireland. Last year, the monoclonal antibody called Nirsevimab was offered to babies born between September 1st and February 28th, providing protection against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This year, the program has expanded to include a catchup cohort of babies born from March 1st to August 31st, addressing concerns from parents whose babies missed out previously. Sheena highlights the significance of this development, the benefits of the immunisation, and the impact on reducing hospitalisations. Additional high-risk infants are also included in the updated plan. The episode covers the details of the program, eligibility criteria, and Sheena’s efforts to seek clarity on the rollout schedule.00:00 Introduction and Host Background00:11 RSV Immunisation Update01:58 Understanding RSV02:49 Last Year's Immunisation Program07:31 New Immunisation Plan for This Year08:19 Eligibility and Implementation Details11:54 Conclusion and Upcoming Podcast TopicsFollow Sheena on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wondercare_irl#rsv #rsvimmunisation #respiratorysynctialvirus #respiratoryhealth #nirsevimab #infectiousdisease #immunisationrates #vaccinereality #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem #rsvcatchup #rsvcatchupprogramme #nirsevimab
 - 10. Take 2!! Success and Failings of RSV Immunisation in Winter 2024/202516:12||Season 12, Ep. 10Corrected audio!In the final episode of Season 12, Sheena extends gratitude to Salin Plus and dives into the RSV Pathfinder Program in Ireland. She discusses the importance of RSV immunisation for infants, the success of the new monoclonal antibody Nirsevimab, and the implementation hurdles faced by public health authorities. Sheena highlights the delays in policy execution, the need for better coordination between the Department of Health and HSE, and the overall impact on infant healthcare in Ireland. She underscores the necessity of early planning, transparent communication, and the adoption of implementation science to improve public health responses. She concludes with a call for better leadership and organisation to ensure effective healthcare delivery. 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude00:22 Overview of RSV and the Pathfinder Program02:08 Challenges with Previous Immunisations03:06 Introduction of Nirsevimab and Initial Excitement04:47 Implementation Delays and Frustrations08:38 Lessons and Recommendations for the Future13:35 Current Status and Final Thoughts Season 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more! Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#rsv #rsvimmunisation #respiratorysynctialvirus #respiratoryhealth #nirsevimab #infectiousdisease #immunisationrates #vaccinereality #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem #implementationscience
 - 9. Measles warnings for holidays...but what about right here?!11:54||Season 12, Ep. 9Understanding Measles and the risks travelling or staying at home!In this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mom of three, delves into the critical topic of measles. She discusses the highly contagious nature of the virus, its transmission, symptoms, and severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. She emphasizes the alarming resurgence of measles in Ireland and Europe, largely due to decreased vaccination rates amid vaccine hesitancy and misinformation. Sheena underscores the importance of achieving a 95% vaccination rate to ensure herd immunity and prevent outbreaks. She also highlights the significance of the MMR vaccine in protecting not just individuals but entire communities.00:00 Introduction to the Wonder Care Podcast00:17 Understanding Measles: Symptoms and Transmission02:08 Complications and Risks of Measles04:04 The Importance of Vaccination04:38 Current Measles Outbreaks and Statistics05:04 Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy and Misinformation06:51 Protecting Vulnerable Populations08:07 Global and Local Measles Trends10:14 Promoting Vaccination and Final ThoughtsSeason 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#measles #measlesireland #mmr #mmrvaccine #measleseurope #complicationsofmeasles #infectiousdisease #immunisationrates #antivax #vaccinereality #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth