Innovate For Life 2025
Innovate for Life is an awareness campaign celebrating the positive impact of the Irish biopharmaceutical industry on innovation in medicines development.
This year our campaign focuses on preventative healthcare. Early treatment and screening, vaccination programmes and regular assessments with healthcare providers can lead to better outcomes for patients and their families, benefitting communities, the healthcare system and the wider economy.
Preventative care can also lead to cost savings over time because by addressing health concerns early, when the chances of recovery are greatest, people may avoid more invasive and costly treatments after complications develop.
By prioritising prevention, we can give every patient in Ireland the chance to live healthier, longer lives.
Innovate For Life Podcasts
Ania’s Story
In this film, we meet Ania who was diagnosed with cervical cancer in her early 20’s after experiencing symptoms that worsened gradually. Now 10 years on, Ania is an advocate of a preventative approach to HPV.
Listen to Podcast:
In this podcast we hear from Dr Deirdre Lundy (Clinical Lead of Complex Menopause Clinic at the National Maternity Hospital) and Kathy Maher (Community Pharmacist @ The Haven Pharmacy, Duleek. Kathy is also former President of the Irish Pharmacy Union & current Chair of Pharmacy Contractors Committee). During this podcast the contributors discuss the importance of HPV awareness among the population and how preventative measures can lead to better health outcomes.
Luke and Sean’s story.
In this film we hear from Dave and Liz who tell the story of their two sons Luke and Sean, both of whom were born with SMA Type 1. However, through earlier diagnosis and treatment, Sean can enjoy a fuller life.
SMA is detected through a simple heel prick test. In Ireland, adding SMA to the heel prick test was approved two years ago but, as yet, this has not been implemented.
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In this podcast, Brona Noonan, tells the story of her four-year-old son Donnacha, who was born with SMA. We also hear insights from Jonathan O’ Grady, Director at SMA Ireland and who has SMA, and Marie-Christine Ouillade a board member of SMA Europe and mother to a daughter living with SMA.
All three share insights into the impact of living with SMA but also how patients can enjoy a better quality of life when early intervention and treatment are made possible.
Loughlin’s Story
In this film, we meet Loughlin — a passionate athlete and dedicated runner whose life took an unexpected turn at 28. When he began experiencing persistent symptoms, his ability to do what he loved was suddenly cut short. After a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, finding the right treatment plan became the key to getting his life — and his passion — back on track. Managing a chronic condition can take time, but with the right care and ongoing support, it’s possible to live life to the fullest.
Listen to Podcast:
In this podcast, Loughlin Campion speaks to Consultant Gastroenterologist, Dr Karl Hazel about his journey with ulcerative colitis and what it is like to live with this disease.
Bernadette’s Story
In this film, we meet Bernadette — an avid gardener, mother and grandmother. Here’s how getting vaccinated against RSV allows Bernadette to enjoy life fully.
Listen to Podcast:
In this podcast, Grainne Murphy, Practice Nurse and Eilis Ní Chaithnía, CEO of the Asthma Society of Ireland discuss the impact of the RSV virus and the important role that prevention plays in keeping people like Bernadette well each year.
