She did not know how she would be able to cope with being apart from her loved ones for so long. But back home, in a situation a world away, people suffer and struggle to deal with thousands of people dying each day because of the pandemic. Sleepless nights, intense heartache and a tight chest are symptoms of her anxiety caused by not knowing when she will next be able hug her loved ones. "I wish I could have all my loved ones safe — as we are here." "I felt like my freedom was taken away and my choices were taken away," she said.

Source: Otago Daily Times April 16, 2021 16:30 UTC