In 1956, after giving birth to me, my mother faced an unexpected and heartbreaking challenge. The landlady of the rented room where we were staying refused to allow girls in her house, despite the fact that I had just been born. With no other option, my mother left the house, taking me and my 10-month-old brother in a large pram. She had no choice but to go to my grandmother’s house, knowing that my father, who was at work, had no idea I had even been born yet.
My mother’s decision to leave was difficult, but she did what was necessary to ensure that her children were safe and cared for. At that time, in an era where such discrimination against women and children was more common, it was a reality that many families had to navigate. My mother, with strength and resilience, made her way through the challenges that came with raising her children in such uncertain circumstances.
When my father eventually returned home from work, he was shocked to find his family had moved, unsure of where we had gone. It was only later that he was reunited with us at my nan’s place. This early part of my life marked the beginning of many struggles, but also showed me the strength and determination of my mother in the face of adversity.