My Story

Hello! My name is Shpresa Durbaku. I am 56 years old and my birthday is on April 16^th. My husband died before a year and I have decided to live as widow. Speaking about my health condition, I am taking medication to cure my blood pressure and I also have some allergic problems. My husband and I have two children from our marriage, so I have two sons who are already grown up and married. They and their wives are a big help to me and try their best to support and care for all that I need. I am grandmother of three children, two grandsons and a granddaughter. I love to care for them during the day while my sons and daughters in law come to stay in my house. I used to work in a company that deals with olive conservations. In this factory my colleges and I would cut the olives, clean them and make them ready for sale. I have worked there for a whole year. My colleges from the village and I had to use transportation to reach to the factory, This factory is located in Prrenjas, which is a small town close to our village, Katjel. My sons are working to provide for their own families and they live on their own houses, together with their wives and children. I live by myself and need to work so I can provide for my own living expenses. I know that in time of need, my sons will be there for me. Since my house is near the house of my two sons, their wives come to help me. My grandchildren come also so I have company and I am not feeling lonely. I live in the village of Katjel. My house is a small village one, and not in very good condition. Same as all the people who live in the village, I own my land and plant in it vegetables. In another portion of my land, I plant what my cow consumes. I have a cow and during the day, I feed it in the fields. I also plant wheat, corn and alfalfa so that I have enough food provided for the cow while I feed it inside during the winter. Cows are beneficial for the milk and diary as well as for the calves which after I raise for a year, I sell and make a bit more of profit. My day if busy doing different things, working in the garden, feeding the cow, cooking and cleaning, doing shopping, etc. but I still find time to get together with my friends for a while so we can chat over a cup of tea or coffee. I meet with my friends while they are also working in the fields. I spend a while watching television and I also spend time with my grandchildren, carrying for them. I am happy to have my two sons live near me. I attend the Bible studies for ladies and the church services in Katjel. I am happy that while I am registered in the program, I will receive help in food, same as the other widows who attend the church. Thank you for your support and care and God bless you!

Translated by Martin Rucolli

LW/Adopt a Child Albania