Emigrated from Ireland in 75. Grandfather got gravely ill in 84 so my Mom moved us back. I was incredibly selfish and rebelled very badly.
All I thought of was myself and the effect leaving Calgary had on me rather than what my family were going through at the time.
They are all gone now - my Mom included and if there is one thing I would take back in my life and do differently, it is how I behaved during that time.
I still love Calgary and get over there every year and identify as a Calgarian - I've only ever had a Canadian Passport which causes me issues sometimes when returning to London from abroad.
I was very close to moving back when I graduated from University, but I met a girl in Yorkshire and she is my wife today. She didn't want to move even though I was desperate to do so. Her Mom was dead against it - so it never happened.
I'm now too old to make a life changing move back - but I visit whenever I can - I love the place and still have incredible friendships that have endured which I treasure.
I'm bringing my 10 year old son over in March - he'll be 11 then. Gonna take him skiing and to a Flames game.
I know things are tough in Calgary right now, but the city has ridden out past downturns and come back stronger every time.
A wonderful city with a great future.
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