Donegal families share their neurodivergence experiences in new TG4 series

Two Donegal families will share their experiences of neurodivergence in a new TG4 documentary series.

James McGinley from Na Doire Beaga and the Brogan family from Donegal Town feature on the powerful new documentary series Néara-Éagsúlacht: Dearcadh Difriúil. The series, produced by Tyrone Productions, will air as part of TG4’s Autumn schedule on October 1 and 8 at 9:30pm. The two-part series offers a moving and honest insight into the lives of neurodivergent people across Ireland, filmed over the course of a year.

The series shines a light on the challenges and triumphs faced by neurodivergent individuals and their families, while highlighting the importance of understanding, inclusion, and support in education, employment, and wider society.

The opening episode focuses on the experiences of children under 18 and their families, exploring how they navigate a world not always designed with them in mind. The programme addresses the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, as well as the personal, educational and social challenges faced by young people who are neurodivergent.

In the first episode, we follow James McGinley from Na Doire Beaga. James is an autistic teen who finds comfort and connection through equine-assisted services. We see the benefits James receives when he visits Caring Capall. This service offers unique therapies to enhance the quality of life for children and adults with physical, emotional, and cognitive difficulties. While there James’s mother Eileen describes the effect on James as magical. We also spend time with James as he starts work experience with his father in Croithlí distillery.

The Brogans live in Donegal Town and have four adult children who are autistic and largely non-speaking. The family relies heavily on the support of The Bluestack Foundation in Donegal Town and their parents share their thoughts about this support in the series. The aim of The Bluestack Foundation is to act as an initial point of support and information, support people with disabilities in reaching their full potential, support families caring for dependents with disabilities, raise awareness and promote advocacy.  This episode examines the realities of employment, the fight for understanding, and the resilience required to navigate adulthood as a neurodivergent person.

Both the McGinley and Brogan parents share a deep anxiety about who will be responsible for the welfare of their children when they are no longer there to provide care themselves.

The series is enriched by contributions from organisations including ADHD Ireland, AsIAm, Gateway Mental Health, and the Bluestack Foundation. Expert insights are provided by psychologist Dr. Cáit Verling and GP Dr. Darach Ó Ciardha.

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Narration of both episodes is provided by renowned musician Colm Mac an Iomaire, while musician and broadcaster Fiachna Ó Braonáin also appears as a participant in the series. The series is produced by Tyrone Productions with support from Coimisiún na Meán & TG4.