Eileen Forrestal

Eileen's life demonstrates that when change happens and you see the open door, and you step through it, your life can be better than you imagined. "The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek." (Joseph Campbell). After 25 years as a medical doctor, she literally walked up to a door and a wild and wonderful opportunity opened up. Eileen's is a remarkable Irish story in the example it provides of overcoming obstacles, emotional stress, and losses.

Eileen stuttered badly for most of her life and because of it she chose a profession, and a specialty (anaesthesia) that allowed her to hide from the social interactions that called for group discussions and presentations. A failed relationship led to further introspection. As a volunteer with Actionaid for Cambodia, she embarked on 350 km cycling fundraiser, from Siagon to Adkor Wat. She had been keeping a journal of her life's journey in a wonderful diary called The Irish Survivors Diary.

Journaling in this beautiful diary was a lifesaver in itself and her love of her journal led her to search out the publisher, hoping to get a donation for her charity. A simple knock on the door opened the second chapter in her life. The publisher had lost her partner in life (and in business) and was ready to give up the business. The two women connected on a very deep level and Eileen, not wanting to lose this important publication, decided almost instantly, to become a partner in the business. The diary was transformed into The Irish Get Up and Go Diary and they haven't looked back since. For several more years Eileen continued to work part-time as a doctor while helping to re-build and expand the publishing business.

The popularity of the diaries exceeded their expectation and, in 2014, she gave up medicine and decided that she can do more for more people with products and services that uplift, educate and inspire. The business has been transformed into so much more. As an aneisthetist Eileen was putting people to sleep. Through Get Up and Go Publications Ltd., and Shine Your Life coaching, she's helping to wake people up. Through the beautiful diaries, inspiring events, and coaching from the heart, the business is thriving. She has turned her life around and believes that she can help others do the same. Get Up and Go Publications Ltd., is proud to support The Irish Hospice Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Ireland and Cambodia Humanity Without Borders.

What people say:

"I am still working with and enjoying my diary since 2014. My grandchild Kate is 'in awe' of your teens and young people diary – and you know how hard it is to get approval from that age group!" Nuala Corcoran, Co Mayo.

"I would like to tell you that the Get Up and Go Diaries are uplifting, inspirational, and so positive and heart warming. I just love them. The Teen version is a wonderful addition, as our teens certainly need something inspiring to guide them. A great size. Very practical and spacious. All in all – unique!" Therese Conway, Dublin

"Sometimes it is as if a little verse or quote has been written just for me – then it reminds me how, when it comes down to it, we are really all the same, dealing with life's twists and turns, but with the help of the Irish Get Up And Go Diary, we choose to shine !! – Love it and will continue to spread the word!!" Maggie Barton, Belfast.

"'Brilliant! When is the next one?" Bernadette Egan, Sligo. "Eileen's coaching helped to shine a new light on a situation in my life that I had only seen as negative. I was free to share my fears openly, with full trust and confidence in her ability to challenge me objectively and opened my mind to solutions that achieved a great result. Fiona Egan, Carrick on Shannon.