On Thursday, Howard will begin his tournament at 10:42 BST alongside New Zealand’s Kazuma Kobori and England’s Tom Sloman.
“It’s surreal. I’ve been busy playing inter-pros for Munster and playing for my home club Fota Island, I haven’t had much time to think, but I’m happy to be here,” said Howard, who is 1,441st in the world amateur rankings.
“I’ve only been to an Irish Open years ago to watch, so first time playing. I’ve watched a small bit on TV over the years, so it’ll be a good test and a great week.
“I can’t wait. I’m going to try my best to enjoy the week. But at the same time, I’m not here to make up the numbers. I really want to do my best and see where it takes me.”
Regardless of how he fares this week, Howard says his Open debut will be worthwhile if it inspires other people with cystic fibrosis to chase their dreams.
“I’ve had a few people with CF kids reach out to me,” he said.
“This is why I do all this stuff for CF Ireland and advocacy, to show them that it’s not the end of the world.
“Keep pushing on, keep fighting and you can follow your dreams too.”