Donato's story
“My name is Donato. I am 78 years old. I’m from Democratic Republic of the Congo, and I have been in this camp for three years.”
When Donato first arrived, she was very ill and exhausted. With no family support around her, she was also caring for her two young grandchildren.
“I was so frail and worn down by illness. I was so sick,” she says.
But today, things have begun to change.
“Now I feel whole again”
Donato talking with a support worker.
Photo credit: © Amini Suwedi / Age International / Fairpicture
Finding strength again
With support from Age International’s partner, HelpAge, Donato now takes part in regular group activities, including physical exercises that help her manage pain and rebuild her strength.
“At HelpAge we get to do our physical exercises. Our bodies feel better. Our aches are relieved.”
She also receives a small grant, which helps her provide food and essentials for her family.
A small business, a big difference
With this support, Donato has started a small vegetable business.
“I sell sweet potato leaves… I also sell cassava leaves.”
Even with limited mobility, she is able to earn a small income to help feed her grandchildren and buy basic supplies.
No longer facing things alone
For Donato, one of the most important changes has been finding a community, bringing older people together regularly, creating a network of support and friendship.
“When you know each other, if you get ill, people will come visit you.”
Knowing someone will check in on her gives Donato reassurance and peace of mind.
Looking to the future
Donato’s hope is simple: to see her grandchildren grow up safe and strong.
“My wish is for these children to grow up… so they can one day stand on their own.”
Donato is doing everything she can to make that future possible.
Be part of stories like Donato’s
Around the world, older people like Donato face many challenges, from poverty, to lack of healthcare, to abuse and neglect. Thanks to the support of the Grandparents United community and other Age International donors, older people like Donato can rebuild their strength, support their families, and feel connected again.