Robert’s nominator said:
“Bob has been volunteering with the Pituitary Foundation Ireland Support Group as area coordinator for almost 10 years now.
While he also works full time & supports his family, he also manages to support newly diagnosed patients via phone call, email and via social media platforms.
Bob shares excellent & beneficial information on social media platforms to help patients and raise awareness.
Bob connects patients and collaborates with medical professionals.”
This is what Robert told us:
- What’s my Story?
I am Bob Brady, I am from Ireland, I am married to my wife Breege and we have an 8-year-old Boy named Cormac.
I was diagnosed with a craniopharyngioma tumour on my Pituitary Gland at the age of 11 in 1991, had tumour & my pituitary gland removed in May 1992, as a result I have a rare pituitary condition called panhypopituitarism. I have to take hormone replacement therapy daily, and see a variety of medical professionals.
In my twenties and early thirties, I had searched for support groups In Ireland, but couldn’t find any information online. After finding the Pituitary Foundation UK Website and attending an event, I felt encouraged and wanted to offer support to people living with Pituitary Gland conditions in Ireland, I wanted to create an online community to raise awareness, where people could connect, and share stories.
- Why I got involved
After attending events held by the Ireland Support Group coordinator, I was asked if I would take over the position in 2014.
As previously stated I wanted to offer support and information to people living with pituitary gland conditions in Ireland, I wanted to also raise awareness amongst medical professionals, create an independent website and social media presence.
As of January 2023, I am also a director with the World Alliance of Pituitary Organizations (WAPO).
During the 9-year period as coordinator I have held Annual Conferences for patients and medical professionals, I have been nominated for volunteer awards and won prestige awards for Healthcare non-profit of the Year 2021-2023.
- What would I like to see happen in the Pituitary Foundation for the next 30 years?
In the past number of years the Pituitary Foundation has had a number of significant changes, new team members, a brand refresh, new website, new resources and support groups, including new telephones support services.
I would like to see greater awareness amongst GPs and Medical professionals to reduce the diagnosis journey for people living with the rare conditions of the Pituitary Gland. I have no doubt the Pituitary Foundation will continue the amazing support and resources offered well in to the future.