On 14th of May 2025 the life of a teacher Joan Burke changed forever Joan she was assaulted and suffered life-changing injuries which will necessitate lifelong care. The recovery process is ongoing during which this time I am unable to work or continue with hobbies and interests that I have had life long committments to.

Joan is a big Sister, a daughter, a friend and a team-mate whose life has been shattered . She has been disrespected by all who know her in her workplace. Joan has worked and studied to get a degree putting herself through college, is a mortgage holder, she has also trained as a mountain Leader, kayak instructor, been of the crew Northabout, sang in the local church choir, loves yoga, plays the fiddle, has represented Dublin in the finals of the Leinster League playing Badminton and also represented her school in horse riding. In looking to alternative ways to retire from a toxic workplace environment while simultaneously experiencing the trauma of grief from the death of her autistic brother. She came second in the end of year Sculpting and Drawing in NCAD, Joan has composed music and even played in a band! She was always extremely well prepared as teacher to support her students in class, putting in hours of preparation of her own time for QQI modules that had not been delivered before such as: Delivering Mountain Skills to TY Students, QQI L4 in Dinghy Sailing, Health Related Fitness, Outdoor Pursuits, Experiencing Teamwork, and Swimming/Water safety she has always linked her work to her experience and training of outdoor education to the various subject areas in the curriculum, such as drama, and the visual arts. Joan has often brought her students on overnight camping trips to Wicklow and linking with groups in Belfast sailing to Scotland to name a few!)

Due to the life changing assault Joan experienced she has currently been left disabled and can barely participate in the activities that she loved without enduring crippling pain from the assault. Which has to date cost her thousands in various treatments. As Joan is currently out of work she is also struggling to pay her mortgage and raise funds for a barrister.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness and support.

We, Joan’s family, ask for your help in supporting Joan in adapting to her changed life.

If you feel moved to contribute, any donation, small or large, will make a meaningful difference in Joan's future, in addition, you can help by sharing the page and keeping Joan in your thoughts.

The Burke Family

(all donations are for Joan’s recovery)❤️‍