I'M GLAD I can't celebrate my 50th

Siobhan O’Neill, 49, is looking forward to spending her landmark birthday away from loved ones

- SASKIA MURPHY, SIOBHAN O'NEILL

Watching the birthday cake being ceremoniously carried over to my friend, tiny warm flames from the candles lit up her face – and as she looked around the room, her eyes filled with love and appreciation.

‘Happy birthday to you,’ we all sang in unison, and my friend smiled, making a wish as she blew out her candles. It was her 50th birthday, an important milestone to celebrate, and my friend had decided to go all out. A sit-down meal in a beautiful venue, with flowers, fizz, a stunning cake and gorgeous decorations, it truly was the most perfect day.

A classic introvert

But while I loved being a part of my friend’s celebrations, I knew there was no way I’d be following suit when it came to my own 50th. See, for as long as I can remember, I’ve hated the limelight, and I have to admit when the lockdown was announced in March, I quickly counted down the weeks, wondering if I’d have an excuse to isolate myself on my birthday on 14 June.

I’ve always been a loner. As an only child, I’ve loved my own company since I was little.

‘Why don’t you go and play outside?’ my mum would urge in the school holidays, desperate for me to spend time with other kids my age.

‘I’d rather stay here,’ I’d reply, preferring to do my own thing, like making up stories and reading books.