I was blessed to have a foster “Nonna” in Rome. Family friends with my Dad forever, her sister Velia lives in Australia, while Fernanda lives in Rome.

She is and was a godsend; such a beautiful, warm, caring and funny lady. Over 80-years-old too, but who’s counting?

I landed on her doorstep, near Piazza Bologna in Rome, and stayed with her for a couple of weeks until I found my own digs (not an easy or cheap process in Rome).

We got on like the proverbial ‘house on fire’. I miss and love her lots.

My room (formerly her son's) in Rome