Dee is Chief Executive of Barretstown, Ireland’s largest provider of medically endorsed therapeutic camps and programmes for children affected by cancer and other serious illnesses and their families. Founded in 1994 by Hollywood actor and philanthropist Paul Newman, Barretstown celebrated its 30th anniversary last year, a significant milestone for the organisation which has to date, supported more than 125,000 campers.
Under Dee’s leadership, Barretstown has experienced extraordinary growth with an increase of over 1,000% in the number of children and family members served. Dee has expanded illness groups beyond childhood cancer to serve more illnesses including haematology related illnesses, immunodeficiency diseases, nephrology, rheumatology, neurology and many more. In 2024 alone, a record 19,000 campers were served through residential and outreach programmes. In addition to this, Barretstown’s programmes have expanded into hospitals, schools and communities across Ireland.
Dee has overseen investment of €20 million in Barretstown’s facilities at its 500-acre estate.
Dee’s background is in strategic and creative marketing and she has held senior leadership positions in Black & Decker Ireland, The Gunne Group and Treasury Holdings. Dee has served on the Boards of Treasury Holdings, The Gunne Group, The Make-A-Wish Foundation, where she held the position of Chair for four years, and the SeriousFun Children’s Network.