Danièle, 65

I really love the old neighborhoods of Montmartre—Rue Saint-Vincent, the vineyards, the stairways, and Place du Tertre. I was born there. I had a very happy childhood. I’d love a beautiful black-and-white photograph of old Montmartre with the Sacré-Cœur in the background. I love walking around Paris; I’m a true Parisian—I love my city. This neighborhood is my childhood. I used to go on long walks with my father. We’d go see the painters. I lived in a village-like neighborhood, in a small apartment on the 5th floor. I went to school there. I would set off alone with a key around my neck. I was 7 years old. Everyone knew me. I would walk around the block to get to school. They called us “the kids with keys.”

I have wonderful memories of my youth; I was surrounded by so much love, and that helped me become strong. I’ve been in the hospital for two weeks, and I wish I could visualize my illness—an “inner image”—so I’d know what I’m fighting against. It’s hard not being able to picture the disease. Seeing that neighborhood again would bring me so much happiness, joy, and fond memories.