Michael Durkan

The Way it Was Michael Durkan

It was the year 1967, a time of tremendous change in the world. The aftermath of the Second World War created unparalleled upheaval, politically and socially. It was the year the world witnessed such historic events as the six-day war in the Middle East and race riots in the U. S. A. In contrast, it was also the year which saw the world's first successful heart transplant. Socially, 'pop' culture was exploding, led by groups such as The Beatles who released their album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Against this maelstrom of activity, whereby technical advances and cultural changes were to impact everybody's lives irrevocably, there were still instances of a simpler idyllic lifestyle to be found. I was 14 years old with a history of chronic asthma. In a bid to improve my health, my parents decided to send me to my Uncle's farm in Co. Mayo, Ireland. I was accompanied by my 11 year old brother. 'My brother and I were unaware at the time, we were about to embark on an adventure. A journey of unexpected exploits, incidents and experiences we would remember forever.' This is a story of how love and friendship overcame adversity.