A Long‑Term Friendship Built on Shared Health Challenges

A Quiet Life in a Bright Condo

The 95‑year‑old Rosine, who calls herself Neni, lives alone in a sunny condo she bought after her husband died. She keeps busy with baking, attending board meetings, scrubbing floors, and dusting a chandelier that needs little work. Every morning she makes her bed no matter how tired she feels, while fatigue, hip pain, insomnia, and swollen ankles are her daily companions.

A Shared Journey

The writer, 40 years old, feels a strange connection to Neni. Both have had hysterectomies and share similar blood issues that cause shortness of breath. They carry the same cancer‑risk genes, allergies and immune problems. The writer paused a Ph.D. career because of illness; Neni has survived many hardships.

Their bond grew when they began sharing frustrations—about incontinence, itchy skin and the feeling of not recognizing oneself in the mirror. Neni reminds her to eat bananas for potassium, avoid heavy lifting and care for a plant the writer received. She also asks, “Is living lasting?” reflecting her experience of outliving many loved ones.

Learning to Slow Down

Both have learned to slow down. Neni, who once saw rest as laziness, now takes naps when needed and teaches the writer that patience and resourcefulness help things grow—just like a garden. When uncertain about health or future plans, Neni encourages him to keep working and pray. Their shared resilience shows that aging can be a journey of adaptation rather than just endurance.

Daily Rituals and Legacy

They keep their homes organized and filled with music, recipes and small rituals. These acts of order become a legacy that reminds them pride can come from simple daily tasks. Their friendship is a reminder that shared struggles bring people closer and help them find meaning even when the body changes.