Marie Doyle
Interviewed by Alanna Kennedy / photos by Emma O’Brien
Alanna: How long have you lived in your area?
Marie: 21 years in October.
Alanna: What’s a fond memory you have of living here?
Marie: Having my grandchildren nearby and watching them grow up.
Alanna: Have you seen this community come back from hard times before?
Marie: Lockdown and covid was very hard for older people, especially being confined to the house. Vaccination has helped people to be able to move again.
Alanna: What are some things that have helped you through lockdown and what brings you joy?
Marie: Being able to walk around the garden and to get mass on TV. My family being able to bring shopping to us.
Alanna: What sort of things are you doing now to stay connected to your community and family and what does community mean to you?
Marie: We are meeting up safely with the active retirement group. Having our family meals outdoors and having a staycation. Being able to speak to to people and stay involved.
Alanna: What message do you want to leave for yourself and this community in 10 years time?
Marie: Having my health. Reaching this age. Still being able to look after ourselves.
Alanna created and framed a lovely crossword for Marie made up of the names of all her grandchildren. See photos of her creative response below alongside some other photos of Marie and her husband Jack who also took part in the project, taken by Emma O’Brien.