Rehabilitation is not just about clinical stuff, therapies on this and therapies on that. At its heart its not about ‘therapies’ at all. What it is all about is finding a way back into life, participating, being integrated, taking part.
That’s what Pádraig did tonight in a hotel just across the street where a really interesting, lively and at times really witty debate chaired by Vincent Browne took place, involving, amongst others, one of our local TDs, Mary Lou McDonald. She remembered Pádraig and came over to say hello in such a friendly way that both herself and Pádraig didn’t stop smiling and laughing.
There were some historical figures present, like Nicki Kelly, who had been sentenced in 1978 for his (alleged) participation in the Sallins Train Robbery and about whom I first heard when I saw one of the famous “Free Nicky Kelly” graffitis in Cork where I visited the love of my life at the time. Someone had let his sense of humour loose and had added, under one of those graffiti: “…with every box of cornflakes!” Unbeatable.
Hospi-Tales 
Now THAT is an incredible photo! One for the picture frame. Mary Lou and both of you laughing heartily. Amazing.
And that only partially captures the warmth of the encounter. It was so relaxed, so friendly and so inclusive. And those faces lit up in seconds and staid smiling for a long time!
Exactly what I did when I was trying to rehabilitate from traumatic brain injury; politics, lectures, talks, whatever that stream of information, of people who you see on the TV but having the opportunity to see them in real life. Vincent Browne was a favorite of mine and every night I watched his show filling in the relevant politics of the day and knowing that I was linked into society and community.
Reinhard – the photos are really great to see; again it brings about linkage, community and integration.
My quote for today
“People often ask me what is the most effective technique for transforming their life. It is a little embarrassing that after years and years of research and experimentation, I have to say that the best answer is – just be a little kinder.” Aldous Huxley
Goodnight Padraig and Reinhard
Michelle KT and Freddie (Interest contrasts Mary Lou and then Nikki Kelly)