The redoubtable John O'Shea is the founder and CEO of GOAL u the non-governmental international relief agency which works to assist the poorest of the poor in situations of emergency and crisis. A straight-talking, radical humanitarian and social entrepreneur, O'Shea has proved to be an irrepressible and combative individual u a man who, with his unique blend of passion and leadership, has helped to save thousands of poor, sick and displaced people across the world u individuals who have been victims of both natural and man-made disasters, such as earthquakes, famines, tsunamis and wars. If you ever wondered where Bob Geldof got his table-thumping, give-me-your-money style of aggressive compassion, then look no further than John O'Shea. As Geldof once acknowedged, he was 'hugely inspired by this mad lunatica who endlessly, endlessly stands up for those who can't do it for themselves'. A constant presence in the Irish media, O'Shea rages against the inadequate response of governments and international bodies, such as the UN, to humanitarian crises. And he appeals directly to the public for support. It is this support, together with the aid he receives from celebrated sportsmen and women from around the world, which forms the backbone to GOAL's endeavours. Now, in this inspiring autobiography, John O'Shea tells of his determined fight for those in need, and looks back more than thirty years to his first involvement in aid work with the street children in Calcutta, where he met Mother Teresa. He also tells of the many adventures he has had in far flung corners of the world, the terrible, heartbreaking situations he has witnessed first-hand, and the remarkable people he has encountered. As colourful and controversial in its telling as the man himself, this is the story of an extraordinary life.
