A Journey of Resilience: My Experience of Being Kicked Out by My Parents
My story is a testament to resilience, love, and the ongoing struggle against parental rejection. At the age of 15, I was kicked out of my home by my parents, a decision that was both unexpected and devastating. This journey highlights the challenges faced by individuals with health conditions and the subsequent support from friends and community members.
Discovering My Health Conditions
It all started when I was 15, after finding it increasingly difficult to walk. My mother, 37, and my father, 47, took me to a doctor who referred me to a hospital for an x-ray and ultrasound. The diagnosis was scoliosis and spina bifida, both conditions that would require ongoing care and support.
Initially, I was scared to disclose this information to my parents, but my doctor informed them, explaining the need for assistance with daily activities. My partner, who also has scoliosis, fully supported me during this time. Although my immediate family struggled to accept the news, my in-laws came to my aid and took me under their wing.
The Decision to Kick Me Out
Approximately two weeks after meeting my in-laws, my parents questioned me about my health during a heated discussion. My parents had always desired a healthy child, and the thought of me not being fit due to my conditions deeply affected them. The arguments escalated until my parents finally decided to kick me out, an action that occurred at night after my sisters had gone to bed. Despite the separation, I remain in contact with aunts, uncles, and grandparents, although distance makes it difficult for me to visit.
Life on the Street
Now 17, my life as a homeless individual has been challenging. I have learned to crochet, which is the only skill that helps me obtain necessary items such as food and water. However, this independence has come at a cost, leading me to develop anorexia due to my restrictive eating habits. My mental health suffered, and I engaged in self-harm and attempted suicide multiple times.
On one occasion, a very kind elderly lady offered me a place to stay and took me to the hospital when I was in a critical state. Her reaction to my condition was a shock, and the police were involved when she was questioned about my welfare. Despite the traumatic experience, I was eventually reunited with my family, albeit with the conditions that I would receive police welfare checks weekly.
Challenges and Updates
Since my return home, life has been incredibly difficult. Selling my crocheted products has been a significant challenge, as the market is small and it takes me a long time to produce each item. Financially, I often struggle as I am not well-paid. Due to my health conditions and homelessness, I had to terminate a pregnancy, a decision based on my inability to provide a healthy environment for the child.
Thankfully, the support from the story's readers has been a great morale boost. It has affirmed that I am not alone in this struggle. I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone who has supported me through this difficult period. The emotional and financial struggles continue, but I remain hopeful for a better future.
Conclusion
My story is a reminder of the importance of community and support systems. It highlights the ongoing struggle faced by individuals with disabilities and mental health issues, as well as the impact of parental rejection on young lives. Despite the challenges, I continue to fight for a better life, one skill and one smile at a time.