#FacesOfKare – Cathal O'Loughlin

Cathal O'Loughlin has been part of the Kare community for many years. Recently he sat down for a chat and told us a bit about his life.

Between his work, strong family connections and wide range of interests, Cathal is a busy man. He has always had a keen interest in politics and it runs in the family, with his grandfather, father and some siblings heavily involved in politics. Cathal makes sure to keep up with current affairs at local and national level as well as EU and international matters. He remembers travelling to Brussels with his sister, Senator Fiona O'Loughlin, to see how things work in European politics. Another fond memory of his is meeting President Mary McAleese and taking the opportunity to say hello with a hug.

Cathal has always been interested in sports. A devoted Liverpool fan, he fondly remembers going to see them play for his 21st birthday. During his school days at St. Anne’s he played football, first as a goalkeeper and later as a striker, scoring 10 goals in one season. He won several plaques for his achievements and also took part in gymnastics. Today, he stays active by playing tennis and swimming.  

Since being a student at St Anne's, Cathal has attended several of Kare's day services. These days, he visits our Tully Road service a few times a week for a cup of tea and chats or to read a book. He is currently working through the Harry Potter series, planning to finish the books before maybe watching the films. 

Cathal has worked with Kildare County Council for 25 years, on everything from finance to dog licensing and motor tax. He recently started his dream job in Newbridge library – the perfect role given Cathal's love of books and a longtime goal of his. He is responsible for scanning and shelving the books delivered to the library, as well as sorting through books according to their locations. Cathal values the independence and stability that a job provides and enjoys the social side of work as well. His Kare keyworker helps him with anything he needs to manage work and daily life, ensuring he continues to succeed.

Other hobbies and interests include genealogy, and Cathal has spent time tracing his family tree and learning interesting things about his ancestors. With a wide range of musical tastes, he could be found listening to anything from Frank Sinatra and Elvis to The Beatles, Michael Jackson, and the odd bit of Little Mix.

Cathal has strong connections with his mother, siblings, nieces and nephews and wider family. He enjoys spending time with them and attending family events, including an annual Bluebells and Buskers event in Killinthomas Woods in memory of his late father, Jimmy O'Loughlin. Travel is another favourite thing to do with family, and he has been on cruises on the Nile and the Caribbean. He enjoys exploring different ports, trying new foods, and occasionally having a cocktail while taking in the surroundings.

Whether at work, with family or enjoying his hobbies, Cathal says he just takes each day as it comes!