Joanne first gained attention for skipping school to confront Taoiseach Enda Kenny about his proposed plan to reduce disability funding during his election. Though he told her he would not cut funding, upon his election, he did slash the disability budget.

In April 2012, she spoke before the United Nations to address the use of technology and challenge the UN to create technology to help disabled people such as herself. Both she and boxer Katie Taylor were named People of the Year for 2012.

Joanne is a an activist for people with disabilities, a motivational speaker and a sports columnist with the Irish Times.

Sample workshops & programs:
• No Limbs, No Limits – my story so far
• Living & Thriving !