When I went along to my first CASA social little did I know it would be a stepping stone for me. I still remember the tremendous welcome I got. That feeling remained with me. I felt so welcome and felt that I had something to give.

As a disabled person I always tend to wonder are people seeing me, or are they seeing the wheelchair. The fact that I am in a wheelchair is just a fact of life. My friends in CASA, I am glad to say have always only ever seen… me…

Embracing the principle of one to one helped our daughter fit with ease into the CASA family. Over this time she has enjoyed socials and holiday breaks to Swords and Malahide. These times of respite have been invaluable to us as parents. The friendships our daughter has made in the CASA family have helped to make her a happy confident person. When asked what CASA has mean to her she replied “ Bring with my friends”

There are no words to describe how absolutely amazing this group is honestly. I have been a member of CASA for over 30 years. It is a charity very close to my heart. CASA has given me so much over the years. I have met so many wonderful people I am thrilled to be able to call friends. I have had the opportunity to go to Lourdes on pilgrimage many times, it is such a special experience. I am so very lucky to be a part of this wonderful organization.

The joy I got from helping others. The wonderful friends I made and a very special trip to Lourdes with Casa in 1988 before I emigrated to Australia. I still write to one person that I looked after and I visit him every time I go home to Cork. He is almost 71 and going strong.

Like many novice volunteers I started out wanting to make a difference, give something back, feel good about my place in life. Caring is a shared experience it’s hard to say who is helping who, and you know its working when you’re still there.