Just listened to Mark Pollock on BBC Radio Ulster’s Good Morning Ulster programme. I remember the last time I heard him on the radio, over a year ago, when he was in hospital after his injury that left him paralysed. He sounded so sad then. Today I didn’t recognise his voice, as he spoke so calmly and confidently about how he is doing and what he is about to do, embarking on a sailing challenge.
Receiving an honorary degree from Queen’s University, Mark told the new graduates that sometimes we set our own challenges, sometimes they are chosen for us, but that in any case you should be brave, different, and ambitious.
I thought of Beverley as he spoke, as she has lived up to these ideals and I will encourage her to keep doing so.
Mark Pollock is a true inspiration.
Like this:
Like Loading...
About Allan Leonard
Working for a cohesive Northern Ireland society
My special interest is Northern Ireland affairs, arriving from America at the time of the 1994 ceasefires.
Currently serve as Director, Northern Ireland Foundation, an independent non-profit organisation based in Belfast.
Previous posts include Policy Officer at the Northern Ireland Assembly, General Secretary of the Alliance Party, and Operations Manager at the Ulster Historical Foundation. Previously, I was responsible for the development and launch of the Troubled Images project at the Northern Ireland Political Collection, Linen Hall Library; this exhibit travelled worldwide.
My professional background includes marketing, communications, exhibition and event management, policy development, and senior management.
Received a MA degree in Irish Political Studies from University College Dublin, and a BA degree (with Distinction) in International Relations from Boston University.
Views expressed here may not represent those of current or previous employers or associations.
