#25: Catherine Coffee O' Brien talks about her time in an industrial school & mother & baby home

#25: Catherine Coffee O' Brien talks about her time in an industrial school & mother & baby home

Imagine being just six years old and thrust into an industrial school, only to later find yourself in a mother and baby home as a pregnant teenager. This is the reality Catherine Coffee O' Brien faced, and in this episode of 'The Two Norries Podcast', she shares her powerful story with hosts James Leonard and Timmy Long. Catherine, a Traveller woman from Kerry, opens up about her challenging childhood and the impact of alcoholism in her family.

Her story is not just about survival but also about the importance of education and human rights. She passionately believes that giving children access to these basic needs can change their futures for the better. Despite the trauma and injustices she endured, Catherine found ways to adapt and learn from her past. She also discusses the misinformation surrounding records and the promises made by the commission of inquiry into mother and baby homes to keep evidence confidential.

Catherine's narrative is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, emphasizing the importance of speaking out against institutional abuse and taking small steps towards achieving one's goals. Her journey is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, offering hope and motivation to others facing similar struggles. Tune in to hear Catherine's story of resilience and transformation.