“A unique combination of brilliant strategy, deep compassion and get-it-done energy”
about jean callanan
Jean Callanan is an international advocate for dying well. During six years as Chair of the Irish Hospice Foundation (she stepped down as Chair in May 26) , she's championed the belief that every death matters and dying well should be within everyone's reach.
Jean has a special passion for palliative care in Africa, where 90% of people lack access to basic end of life care. She is a member of the advisory board of the African Palliative Care Association. Jean's connection to the continent runs deep: her grandmother was an Irish doctor who became a nun and dedicated her life to healthcare in Africa. Following in those footsteps, Jean has been working on various projects to improve palliative care access in Africa – recognising that while choices may be limited, dignity and basic comfort never should be.
Jean has a special passion for palliative care in Africa, where 90% of people lack access to basic end of life care. Her connection to the continent runs deep: her grandmother was an Irish doctor who became a nun and dedicated her life to healthcare in Africa. Following in those footsteps, Jean has been working on various projects to improve palliative care access in Africa – recognising that while choices may be limited, dignity and basic comfort never should be.
She’s a regular commentator on RTÉ and in Irish media, helping families navigate difficult conversations with practical wisdom and gentle humour. Her approach is refreshingly down-to-earth: death is as natural as birth, and talking about it openly is one of the greatest gifts we can give those we love.
