Chapter 1

Introduction: about me

My name is Gloria Ferris, and I live in South Croydon. This story is partly mine and it's partly Muriel's. I was born in East London on 10th August, 1939.

I've known Muriel for over 40 years, since 1956, when we were both in St Lawrence's Hospital in Caterham, Surrey. Of course, she was quite young when I took her on, nine or ten, I can't remember just what age she was. Her parents have both passed on; she's got a brother but they don't keep in touch.

I'm her lifeline, and she's mine, more or less, although I've got other relatives. They know that I go to see her and I look after her, I do things for her. I've always loved animals and, funnily enough, Muriel has. I don't want to get married, I want to stay as I am. I don't want to be tied down. I want to be able to go and see Muriel. I'm more or less all she's got now.

Chapter 2 - Childhood and schooldays