'We're finally seeing some light at the end of the tunnel'

Last year, the Westmeath Independent ran a feature series, 'Abroad In Uncertain Times', in which we interviewed local people in various parts of the globe about how they were coping with the pandemic while living away from home. We have recently been getting back in touch with those featured for an update on how things have been going since.

Orla Nolan, from Glasson, is a daughter of Liam and Anne Nolan. Orla is based in Long Island, New York, where she works in the hospitality industry.

* What is the current situation with the virus in New York?

We thought the end was in sight with the vaccines rolling out pretty fast and everything opening back up 100% but now, as of last week, we are currently back masked and the numbers are on a steady incline with the new variant. People are worried about the unknown but are all still trying to remain positive.

* Is the pandemic continuing to impact on your own life and work?

Right now, work and life has been getting back to pretty much normal. It's been nice to be able to take trips away again and not have to worry about regulations.

The hospitality industry has taken one of the biggest hits during this pandemic but, once people were allowed back into bars and restaurants, I can assure you they have been making up for a lost time - so much so that some nights I wish the 10pm curfew was back instead of closing up the bars at 3am! But it's nice to see people back enjoying themselves.

* How does the situation feel now, compared to the early stages of the pandemic when we were in touch last?

I feel like we're finally starting to see a light at the end of this dark tunnel. We're not quite there, we have a couple more hurdles to overcome, but I believe we are on the right road. All of this has made us more aware of what's important and how life can change so drastically overnight.

* What has been the toughest aspect of 2021 for you?

It's been over a year since I have seen my family, which has been tough as flights keep getting postponed. But as I say when my mother calls from home, so many people will never get to pick up the phone and have a phone call due to losing a family member from Covid-19. We are healthy and very fortunate to not have lost a family member and, before we know it, we will be having dinner and a laugh again and putting this all behind us. I’m thankful all my family and friends are healthy and that’s all that matters. Keeping positive is key.

* What are your hopes for the rest of this year?

I'm hoping that everyone remains healthy, and we close this year out healthier and happier than we did the last. Love to all my family. I miss you all, stay safe, I can't wait to see you all soon. Thoughts and prayers to all the families back home who lost loved ones during these times.