I went to Hensol Hospital when I was 14. I had lovely long, curly hair. I was put in Hensol for epilepsy fits. I was in there for 46 years.

I shouldn't have gone there. I've got a better life now. I'm doing well in myself. I've got a better life than I ever had in Hensol.

Childhood

I lived in Thomas Street up until the age of five. I moved when I was nine. It's lovely. I'd go back to Gilfach Goch any day if I had a chance.

I used to walk years ago. I'd go up the Valleys. I wish I was there now. I'd be walking if my leg wasn't tendonitis.

Friend

All of them are kind at People First. I thank them very much. If you've got any problems, go to them and tell them that what you feel like. If you're depressed, get it off your chest, but I'm not depressed - I'm very happy in myself.

That's me helping Elaine in the office. She used to go up to the shops to get cheese sandwiches and buns for me. I used to love 'em.

Happiness

I like a fag - a cup of coffee with it. Once I have a fag I'm alright. I like my cigarettes. I'll never give them up. If they ask me and ask me I'll say no. I like a smoke.

Work

Years ago I was a domestic in Porthcawl - St John's School. I never liked it there. I packed the job in. I was only getting 20p a week - not many cigarettes. I packed it in and I phoned the police to take me back to Hensol. I was institutionalised. I couldn't stick the outside world.