Alda is part of our “Who Are You?” campaign, which began in Cameroon, Africa and has spread around the world. We gave her a disposable camera to give us a glimpse into her life. Alda is a poet. When Alda’s mother was diagnosed with a heart condition at the age of 17 and told she would soon die, she never gave up fighting her disease, having Alda and living for many years. Alda’s mother sacrificed so much and when she finally did become too ill to care for herself, Alda put her own life on hold for a decade to care for her mother. Alda lives in Portugal with her son, an illustrator and a 3D designer. He’s also a self-taught musician using the guitar her mother gave him as a thank you for all of the time and patience he gave during her illness. Alda is a beautiful soul.
You’ll always be what you feel, no matter what you do.
I only go forward…always and against all odds.
I feel so lucky because I have a happy heart.
Life commands life itself: we make choices and decisions but somehow life will put you right in the place you are meant to be.
My mother was a truly special and shining person. She was a warrior.
The most precious thing we have in life is the love from our family and friends.
I love the sea. I like to spend time at the beach so I can listen to my soul.
Trees remind me of my mom – strong.
When I’m on a hill looking over a valley with the sun above me, I can hear my own answers much better inside me. It’s also where I feel my mom much more close to me.
I’ve always been a person without my own life because maybe I’m a workaholic and I’m always forgetting about me as I help everyone else…I still don’t have much time but I’m learning…better late than never!
Hours before my mother passed away, she heard my son play a song he composed for her over the phone. Listening to him, she smiled her final, most beautiful smile.
It really doesn’t matter what might happen with us, what others might think or say, because we are only what we feel and who we love.
The same way I love you
And you can never truly know
‘Cause time won’t wait for you
Or for me
The sun won’t wait for you
Or for me
But love…
Yes, love!
Will always be
Waiting for you and for me.
Thank you so much for this opportunity to participate in your project! I’m so proud… I think you already know that. And… am I a poet? Didn’t know…:)I’m just me but I confess I write everywhere
Thanks again xxx
Congratulations, Alda! You are quite an inspiration, and an example to follow!
Best wishes, and… keep on writing!
Alda, my special friend. How proud you should be of yourself. I love your pictures, I love your poem and your story, as you know, touches my heart. Our lives have travelled similar paths although many miles apart. Looking after sick parents for many years is so hard but when it is your mum nothing else matters.
Alda you have a beautiful spirit and a beautiful soul. I am pleased to have you as a friend.
Nigerl xx
Thank You my dear friends. Your support always keeps me smiling
Hi Alda! These are such BEAUTIFUL words! You remind me so much of myself. The written word is so powerful; it can help you through the hardest times and bring perspective and clarity when it is most necessary. I admire your optimism and your selfless soul. I can guarantee your mother would be so very proud! Nice to meet you! Keep smiling!
xx
Thanks Frederica. Nice to meet you too!
It is a real pleasure to communicate with so nice persons around the globe. I still want to believe that most of ‘us’ are real ‘humans’- that’s why I already love to come here often.
xxx
Take care and be always happy!
*wow*
that’s all I can say…
you’re amazing!
Hello Silke
I’m embarraced now 
but thank you so much. I’ve also discovered something in common with you – we like to appreciate simple things! So, have great and amazing days 
xxx