My Actifit Report Card: March 30 2026

Today has been a very busy day for me; I got started on the housework first thing in the morning, and what takes up most of my time, so to speak, is looking after my grandmother. First I help her up and sit her on the edge of the bed; this simple task is exhausting, as she thinks she’s going to fall and clings to the bed and the sheets as best she can; surprisingly, she has a lot of strength in her hands, more than I do; I think it’s down to all those years in the countryside milking cows.

Well, sitting her up in bed is exhausting because she resists, and I have to do it carefully so as not to frighten her too much. After that, I lift her into the wheelchair with the help of my mother and my aunt, and take her out into the courtyard to wash her face and hands, and wash her from the waist down.

Thank God, and after two years of paperwork, the council provided me with a wheelchair; I’ve had it since January and it’s been a lifesaver because my back just couldn’t take it any more. Well, after washing her and putting her dentures in, I take a breather and get on with some housework whilst my mum makes breakfast.

A doctor visited us today because my grandmother has developed two pressure sores; it’s the first time she’s had them and her leg is looking very bad, purple and black – bad signs – so after cleaning her wounds, I went on my own with breakfast into the city centre to buy the medicines, nappies and other things we need.

I arrived exhausted because, as well as the walk, the sun was scorching; it’s summer in my country and this is the hottest time of the year. Anyway, I arrived, had lunch and carried on with the same routine of getting my grandmother up to take a few steps; it’s very exhausting because she doesn’t want to walk anymore, but if she doesn’t, she gets sores that take ages to heal, and she isn’t even diabetic.

Today I’ve realised that I no longer live for myself; all my time is spent looking after my grandmother and others, and I feel sad. The only things that bring me joy, although I worry about them too, are my pets: my dog Duke, who is already showing signs of age as his coat is turning grey, and the kitten who arrived at our house two months ago.

Well, friends, I almost went to bed without writing my report, and the only photos I can share with you are of my children, whom I’ve already put to bed; I hope you have a good night and that tomorrow is a lovely day. Thank you for your support.