Interviewed by  Ava Loran / photos by Emma O’Brien

Ava: How long have you lived in your area?
Christine: 44 years.

Ava: What’s a fond memory you have of living here?
Christine: Lovely community. Sports days. Anniversary of 60 years- celebrating Derrygreenagh.

Ava: Have you seen this community come back from hard times before?
Christine: Big changes in society. Social isolation and wages are much better.

Ava: What are some things that have helped you through lockdown and what brings you joy?
Christine: Visits from the family and neighbours. Socializing. Music. Expecting my 13th grandchild this year. The Mayo and Roscommon rivalry.

Ava: What sort of things are you doing now to stay connected to your community and family and what does community mean to you?
Christine: Carer to the elderly. Celebrations of relatives birthdays.

Ava: What message do you want to leave for yourself and this community in 10 years time?
Christine: Respect for others and yourself. Manners.

Ava created the McNamara and Shamley family tree, a wonderful way to capture their family’s history. See photos of her creative response below alongside portraits of Christine, taken by Emma O’Brien.

Christine McNamara