Funding to help ensure Joanne’s story is told

Rehab Group is to provide €25,000 towards the cost of a film about the extraordinary life of Cork teenager.

Joanne O’Riordan, 16, from Millstreet, is one of only seven people in the world born without all four limbs — a condition called total amelia.

As a result of the organisation’s contribution, Joanne’s older brother and film maker, Steven O’Riordan, is now just €35,000 short of meeting the total cost of the project.

The Rehab Group is urging other organisations with available funds to support the €100,000 project to ensure Joanne’s story is told.

The organisation will also provide Steven with professional support because it strongly believes in encouraging people with disabilities to share their stories.

A mystery benefactor donated €40,000 to help fund the No Limbs, No Limits documentary. The future of the film had been in doubt after funding was refused by the Irish Film Board.

Rehab chief executive Angela Kerins said the film was an opportunity to show how those with disabilities overcame what were at times enormous challenges.

“Rehab’s motto is ‘Investing in People, Changing Perspectives’ and we hope that, through Rehab’s support, Joanne’s story will help to change the perspectives of all those who see the film,” said Ms Kerins.

Mr O’Riordan said: “Joanne’s story is not only an increasing one, but it’s also an important one.

“Thanks to Rehab’s generous support, this story can now be told.”