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Minister Deenihan presents Awards at the Patients Photography Exhibition in the National Rehabilitation Hospital, Co Dublin
Jimmy Deenihan TD Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht will this evening (Thursday 11th October, 2012) present awards to the winning photographs from 13 shortlisted entries in the National Rehabilitation Hospital Patients and Staff Photography Competition.
Speaking in advance of the award ceremony Minister Deenihan said that for more than 50 years the National Rehabilitation Hospital has transformed the lives of people who have suffered a traumatic and life changing episode and that "this exhibition of incredible images shows us just what is possible when healthcare professionals work with patients to fulfil their creative potential. I have to admit to being fascinated at the wide range of photographs displayed. I know that each of these was captured in a very personal way and I'm sure that each has a very individual story to tell"
In a constant endeavour to explore new recreational activities, which patients can learn to master at their level of ability and continue to enjoy following their discharge from NRH, photography presented itself as an ideal activity due to its accessibility and adaptability. A former patient, Tara Keane brought to light the opportunities that photography had afforded her and the pleasure she has gained from this art form. She offered to teach, on a voluntary basis, a weekly photography course in conjunction with the Therapeutic Recreation Service.
The Minister thanked the Chairman Henry Murdock and all the wonderful team at the NRH and added that this exhibition reflects the skills and vision of patients and staff of the National Rehabilitation Hospital. "It is wonderful to see what a creative partnership between the arts and health sectors can produce, and I wish to extend my congratulations to the National Rehabilitation Hospital and especially the Therapeutic Recreation Service who have worked together to turn individual experience, ideas and raw materials into the wonderful group exhibition we have here this evening and I congratulate all involved" the Minister concluded.