ON THE COUCH:Catherine Cox is a public relations officer with the Carers Association
Family/personal: Married to Ronan, with three children, Aoife (11), David (9) and Brian (2).
Which living person do you most admire and why?
John Curran, from Waterville, Co Kerry, who broke his neck in 1978 and has been paralysed ever since. He is an incredibly positive person and despite the obstacles has written two books using a chin-controlled switch to type.
What do you regard as the top three problems facing Ireland's health system?
Our ageing population means that we will have more older people and less carers unless adequate support services are put in place. Our mental health services, which are very poor, fragmented and inconsistent. Finally, long waiting lists are denying people access to vital services and treatments.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Shoes.
What is your most unhealthy habit?
Chocolate.
How do you relax?
Salsa dancing.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?
Bertie Ahern, Frank Dunlop, Nelson Mandela, Ray D'Arcy, Mary Harney and my husband Ronan.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Being surrounded by my family.
What trait do you most value in your friends?
Honesty.
What talent would you most like to have?
I'd love to be able to dance the old-style waltz.
Do you use alternative/ complementary medicines or therapies?
Yes. I have had reflexology, aromatherapy and kinesiology.
What is your earliest memory?
My first day at primary school in Callan, Co Kilkenny. I was the youngest of a family of six so I was dying to get to school.
What is your most treasured possession?
A ring my mother-in-law bought for me while we were on holidays in Turkey.
What other career might you have chosen?
I worked in a bank before this. If I was to choose another career it would be social work.
What books or films have inspired you?
Just My Luck by John Curran.
In conversation with Fiona Tyrrell