Róisín Wiley: The best is yet to come

The 2023 Rose of Tralee talks to us about fuzzy socks, iced-coffee and a cause dear to her heart 

2023 Rose of Tralee New York Rose, Roisin Wiley. Pic: Dominic Walsh

New York Rose Róisín Wiley is on a high after being named the 63rd Rose of Tralee earlier this year.

The 27-year-old, who has strong Limerick connections (her dad, Eddie is from Kilmallock and her mother Majella is from Templeglantine), travels home regularly especially to cheer on the Limerick hurlers.

In Manhattan where she’s the vice president of a marketing company, Róisín says it’s full steam ahead for Christmas, one of her favourite times of the year.

“My family and I have a Christmas Eve tradition to go to Rory Dolans in Woodlawn, New York. On Christmas morning, we open our gifts one at a time, and I love all of the ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ about what we’ve got for each other.

“For me, Christmas epitomises wholesome family time. It also means warm coats, hugs, fireplaces, lights, movies, and fuzzy socks.”

But it also means giving back, which is why Roísín’s latest trip to Ireland is to support a national charity based in Limerick.

“Cliona’s Foundation believes that no family should have to face any added financial stress when already struggling with the devastation and trauma of a seriously ill child,” she says.

Roísín is an ambassador of the charity, which will hold its inaugural Christmas ball, sponsored by Huawei, in Dublin this weekend. The goal is to raise at least €50,000 which will benefit up to 20 families.

How do you spend your mornings?

This morning I was up early for a flight from New York to Ireland. It wasn’t a typical morning for me, but an exciting one all the same.

How do you keep fit?

I really love to exercise. I do my best to get to the gym or a fitness class at least three times a week. I also try to go out for a walk every day in the fresh air.

Do you have a morning routine?

I have a routine when it comes to setting goals for
myself, but I don’t always stick to it. I would love to start my mornings with a bit of stretching or yoga, into a walk, and then of course a nice iced coffee.

What is one thing you do every day?

Having a slice of toast and butter with an iced coffee in the morning.

What are your healthiest eating habits?

I love drinking water.

What are your guiltiest pleasures?

I can never say no to a few potato chips (crisps).

What keeps you awake at night?

I sleep well usually but sometimes thinking of loss or missed opportunities can keep me awake.

How do you relax?

I really enjoy cooking and watching TV.

What is your favourite smell?

I love the smell of chlorine, probably because it reminds me of vacation time.

When was the last time you cried?

I cried saying goodbye to my dog last night when I was leaving New York.

What is the best health advice you’ve ever been given?

It’s vital to listen to your body and always give it what it needs. Whether that’s a glass of water, fresh air or a nap. Also, don’t push yourself. It’s so important to take care of yourself as best you can.

What traits do you least like in others?

I really dislike when people are impolite and inconsiderate.

What traits do you least like about yourself?

I can be a little bit impatient from time to time.

Do you pray?

Yes, I do my best to pray at night, to say thank you for all that we have.

What cheers you up if you’re having a bad day?

Petting my dog.

Has climate change impacted how you live your life?

It has been a big part of my education, and I’m very aware of my carbon footprint and how to minimise that.

What quote inspires you most and why?

The best is yet to come. I always feel inspired by the opportunity and possibility of tomorrow.

Where is your favourite place in the world?

Florence in Italy. I was lucky enough to spend time there during my studies and I absolutely loved it.

• Cliona’s Foundation is a national charity providing financial assistance directly to parents of children with life-limiting or chronic complex care needs across Ireland to help with the non-medical expenses related to caring for their child. 
• www.clionas.ie