Stephen Teap, devoted father to Oscar and Noah, holds the position of chief executive at the Cork ARC Cancer Support House and is an advocate in the realm of healthcare. While he considers himself generally good-natured and cooperative, he does maintain certain boundaries that are rooted in his own belief system. He values not only his own values, but also fairness and equality. And while he is open to compromise, he isn’t afraid to voice his objection when necessary.
His middle name is John, a name he considers plain and unexciting. He was named after his grandfather who chose to go by the name Jack, a name he would have preferred. Stephen’s place of choice in Ireland is Clonakilty; a place he finds perfect due to its location, ambiance, and cuisine; a place that feels like a second home. His admiration for Clonakilty also stems from the fact that his mother and her family hail from around the town, a place he spent a significant portion of his youth.
When asked to describe his character in three words, he chose ‘Fair’, ‘Honest’, and ‘Passionate’. His last annoyance came from the failure of the Revenue Commissioners to return his call, as well as an email concerning his son’s homework. He has admittedly dealt with significant loss in his life and acknowledges his ongoing struggle of picking up the pieces. When asked what he would reclaim, if he could, he was unsure of an exact answer. As for his most potent memory from his childhood, he chose to remain silent.
Rephrasing the original text in British English, we get:
In the year 1988, I was only a seven-year-old boy. My passion was for Michael Jackson and I was his biggest fan. A large poster of his album “Bad” was proudly displayed on my bedroom door. Reflecting now, I believe that might have been amongst my very first album purchases. Interestingly, I was the sole enthusiast of Michael Jackson in our household. A vivid memory that remains is the time he performed at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, and my mum secretly went to see him. Out of nowhere, she disappeared and I had to ask my father where she had run off to. The answer, she had gone to see Michael Jackson’s concert at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.
Frustrated and furious, my tears forced my dad to take me all the way up to the hill in Montenotte on the north side, where Páirc Uí Chaoimh was visible and a faint echo of the concert was audible. Three decades on, this story remains a potent memory from my childhood. In fact, finding it in my heart to forgive my mother for this is an ongoing endeavor.
When asked about my position in the family and if that has played a role in who I’ve become today: I’m the firstborn and hence, experienced the struggles that come with it – permissions for discos and so forth. These past experiences have shaped me as an adult, teaching me that if there’s something you desire, you must stand up and strive to achieve it. It may not always be successful, but the attempt is crucial.
As for my views on death, I’m unsure. A quote from Keanu Reeves does resonate though, “The ones who love us will miss us.” It’s an answer to such a complex question that seems agreeable to all, which is why it stuck with me. I do hope there is something beyond, although the thought of nothingness is equally unsettling.
When I reflect on the happiest moments of my life, it may sound a bit cliched, but those are times spent at home with my family, with no external commitments and being spared from any homework duties.
If there was a biographical film to be made about me, which actor could play my role?
When I queried ChatGPT about who would best portray Stephen Teap in a film about his life, the AI suggested Cillian Murphy. I believe this is solely based on their shared Cork heritage, given the stark contrast in their physical appearances. That said, I’d be absolutely thrilled if he were to portray me in a role reminiscent of Peaky Blinders.
Is there a significant career or personal error you wish to undo?
Frankly, I am not one to harbour regrets. I am more inclined to attempt and fail rather than abstain from trying altogether. My current employment at the Cork ARC Cancer Support House is backed by a marvellous team of employees and volunteers who maintain a temptingly appetising spread of cakes at the office kitchen. Given my expanding waistline, this may technically be regretful, considering that I find it hard to resist these delights. Does this count?
Do you have firmly ingrained habits or mental characteristics?
Indeed, I am known for my honesty and openness to the extent that I might be perceived as rather blunt or abrasive at times. With time, those who have gotten to know me understand that I am forthright; seek an answer and you shall receive it. The practice has suited me well, particularly in my advocacy work over the previous years.