Hello again Angelique. I've been out today, trying to escape the madhouse I live in. I had to come home as my back was hurting, but at least I managed to walk a long way, while carrying my heavy camera bag too.

Sometimes people talk to me too when I go out but usually only people lots older than me. Barely anyone close to my age will speak, but occasionally it happens. I'm shy to speak to people like that but I try to and I make eye contact and smile quite often. It does depend how I think I look that day though.

There aren't any groups locally I could walk with apart from a group that's only got older people in. No offence to older people (I don't know how old you are) but at my age I don't want to walk with a large group of people in their 70's and 80's. I have checked out the local walking group several times as I know where they meet, so I have seen the age group. I want to meet people nearer my age or even 10 years older or younger would be ok, but most people anywhere near to my age are out working.

I've used so many sites like OKCupid and Plenty of Fish and loads of other dating and friendship sites. I never get anywhere, but I really have tried very hard for a long long time. I just don't bother any more because nobody ever wants to know.

Your situation must be tough for you. I wish I could say magic words that would help you feel better. All I can suggest you do is what you're already doing, which is to build your strength up in your legs and try to get into a situation where you're able to go out more. I think you need local friends who can help you too, just like I need for myself.