Life on the NYC Subway: Helen's Story of Resilience and Loss
The sense of community in a place that is as gigantic as New York is absolutely amazing. I've had customers who literally stand in the train doors, peering around them to keep an eye to make sure that nobody gives me too much trouble.
What’s it like to be an essential worker in one of the world's busiest subway systems during a pandemic? Jay Casale sits down with Helen, an MTA Conductor for the NYC Subway, to share her firsthand experiences. In this powerful episode of 'The Lighter Side with Jay', Helen opens up about the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when she and her colleagues requested masks, only to be denied.
Tragically, this led to the loss of 50 of her fellow workers before masks were finally distributed. Helen's story isn't just about the grim realities; it's also a testament to the resilience and community spirit that kept them going. Jay and Helen also find moments to discuss lighter topics, bringing some balance to this emotionally charged conversation. Jay reflects on how his podcast has transformed from focusing on weight loss to addressing broader mental health issues, especially during the pandemic.
This episode offers a poignant look at the challenges faced by essential workers and underscores the importance of humanity in news stories. If you're interested in real-life accounts of courage and perseverance, this episode is a must-listen.