Shelagh Fogarty 1pm - 4pm
Caller in tears as he tells James O'Brien of the pain of being lonely during the lockdown
15 April 2020, 13:14 | Updated: 7 June 2023, 08:56
Caller tells James O'Brien of the pain of being lonely during the coronavirus lockdown
This caller broke down in floods of tears as he told James O'Brien how difficult it is living on his own during the coronavirus lockdown.
James was aware that his lockdown conditions are very good. He's with his family in a house with a garden. But he knows it's not like that for thousands of other people, so he wanted to speak to them.
That's when John in Belsize Park called in.
And unexpectedly, he realised he couldn't keep his emotions in check right from the start as the tears started to flow.
When James asked if he was lonely, he responded with his voice cracking with emotion: "Yes, this is so difficult for me.
"I'm on my own. I haven't even got my family to go and see. It's my mum's 60th birthday in a few days and I can't even go and celebrate with her.
"This lockdown is just getting to me and I've had enough."
Listen & subscribe: Global Player | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify
John said the financial difficulties were weighing on his mind and he had no one to keep him company to discuss them. And he admitted to be too scared to go outside during the lockdown.
Listeners were so touched by John's call.
I've just heard that young man, so upset.
— Saint Non🌹✊ (@StNon_withwings) April 15, 2020
Please... sending him a massive hug...
Go out, look at the sky, and the trees.
Walk as far as you can in 25 min, and stop. Look around, and breathe. (And go back home)
XX ❤️ XX
This morning’s phone in on @lbc @mrjamesob is delightful. Many, many people are struggling to function. There is hope, there is light. ❤️
— Simon Grace 🇬🇧🇪🇺 (@OscarsOrion) April 15, 2020
@mrjamesob James offering a much needed platform for folks feeling the distress of the lockdown, Great Work and much respect! @LBC #lockdownuk
— Nad (@Ned321) April 15, 2020
Hear the full call at the top of the page.