I knew all this would happen to me as it will happen to anyone sooner or later. But I don’t think I was prepared to lose my independence. It hurts me!

I am a lot quieter and this is why I think a lot more now. I think about the people I know and the things that happen in the world. I used to play football but not now. I used to go to the Arsenal football matches with a support worker in my wheelchair, but now I feel cold and achy and prefer to watch it on TV.

I used to take a taxi to go to my reading and writing course. I get only 80 journeys in a year and I had to cancel the lessons because I didn’t have enough left to do the other things I need.

I used to cook my own meals; my favourite was shepherds pie. Now I have to order the food from the local café. The food is good but people keep telling me that pies and chips are not good for my heart.

I used to be able to bath myself but now I need another person to help me out and I have been given a Master Bath to make this easier. I used to be able to go to the doctor on my own; now he comes to see me. He’s nice, always listens to me.

One thing that really bothers me now I am older is being alone at home. It frightens me. I feel something will happen and nobody will be near me to help me. If I fall who will be there?

I was given a Link Line, an alarm system, so if I have, for example, a heart attack, I can raise the alarm to call the ambulance.

I am an older man now, but I am lucky. I have lots of friends and a nice family who care for me. My neighbours also are very supportive, especially Jackie and Mary. They always help me when I need something and they help my wife Carol too.

I am lucky because even though I am getting older, I am not alone and the people who matter to me are near and love me. I also feel closer to Jesus.

I would like to make a will before I die. I would leave everything to my wife. I have been saving all my life, so when I die Carol will have something.