WordsUnsaid

Hi All,

I'm just not sure what to do anymore... My little sister is 13 and has been living with us since last April. When do you know when it's time to start pursuing some kind of legal custody? I would prefer that my mom get it together and be able to take care of her daughter, but when should I start planning alternatives? I'm just not sure...

biminiblue

Who will make medical decisions and is her mother even capable of that?

I would talk to an attorney as soon as possible. This young girl needs stability and she's been with you nearly a year. Give her the gift of a stable family.

atalose

I would begin to pursue it now. There are so many reasons why this needs to be done, medical, school, legal, etc.

WordsUnsaid

Currently, I have a caregiver's affidavit through CPS that gives me the ability to make medical, school, and financial decisions on her behalf, but it's only valid as long as my mom doesn't revoke it. I agree, stability is very important; Since she started living with us, she's no longer at risk of truancy, her GPA has gone from a low 2.0 to above a 3.5. I just don't want my sister to experience anything close to what I went through as a child with my mom's addiction. I feel horrible saying it, but I just don't see my mom getting her life together during my sister's teen years. Last time took losing custody of my brother and I, running around for 16 years, and my sister being born with heroine in her system...

biminiblue

You can't save your mom, but you do have a chance to save your sister.

Bless you. Pray about it and the answer will come.

WordsUnsaid

Thank you biminiblue for the kind words.

hopeful4

Do it right now. Break the chain and let your sister thrive under your care.

Noor

Words of wisdom.