TO ERIC: I am an amputee who is right above the knee. After a heated altercation with my mother, who stabbed me seven times while knocking me out with a bat, I became an amputee two years ago. Twelve years were granted to her. It will take her six and a half.
She lives next door to me. Must I relocate? And why should I relocate? When I was a teenager, I purchased this property. I’ve spent my entire life working. Why should I part with a house that I have built with blood, sweat, and tears? Is staying worth the trauma?
Desire to Remain at Home
Greetings from home: You shouldn’t need to relocate. Additionally, it appears that you have several years to figure out how to create a safe environment in your house. Discuss your options for obtaining a restraining order or other protections with the local authorities and possibly the DA who handled your case.
But this goes beyond property and physical security. This neighborhood is a place of violence for you, even with her behind bars, so if you don’t confront it, the trauma will probably continue to be reproduced. A support group or therapist can assist you in processing the significant loss you have experienced. You’ll be in a better position to make a wise decision when she returns if you take care of your emotional health.
Questions can be sent to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or by mail at P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Subscribe to his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com and follow him on Instagram.)
Tribune Content Agency, LLC in 2025.
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