Lindsay Rudland is 72; a retired nurse following 46 years in clinical practice – 30 of them in mental health care. Born when rationing was still in place, she has lived through the austere 50s when listening to the radio was a highlight. Through the 60s, being part of the counter culture and surviving blooded but unbowed through the following decades. A single parent. She has maintained her enthusiasm for this precious life through friendships, self-help and yoga, despite promiscuity, bereavements financial hardship, failed relationships and frequent irresponsibility.