Worst days.
Today would have to rank up there as one of the worst days of my life.
Callie’s TPR trial was today.
Instead of being in bed like I was supposed to be, I sat through 8 plus hours of horribly heartwrenching, graphic testimony. I tried very hard not to relate what they were saying to Callie or her siblings, or think about my own personal history, and just watch what was going on like it was a tv show.
Which didn’t work.
My heart is broken for those poor kids. My heart is broken for myself.
And then I got to come home and tell Callie that the case had been continued until October. That she wasn’t going to get the answer yet, the answer she wants more than anything. That she wasn’t going to get permanancy yet, even though she wants it so badly.
Edited to add: Callie has been in foster care over three years now, making her struggle to understand why TPR hasn’t been done yet even more difficult. She entered foster care at the age of 14, now she is just hoping that the TPR will be completed before her 18th birthday.
July 30th, 2008 at 7:55 pm
I can’t imagine how difficult that must be. I just can’t.
July 30th, 2008 at 8:15 pm
I wish I could give you both a big hug right now!!
July 30th, 2008 at 9:08 pm
That just sucks.
July 30th, 2008 at 9:20 pm
I don’t understand how the courts can do this. These are children, their parents hurt them, and badly. To continue the case is like a slap in the face. TPR is the best option. Good wishes & many hugs to you & your family.
July 30th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
On one hand, I’m glad that courts and social workers approach TPR cautiously. It’s obviously not a decision that should be made with a cavalier attitude. However, caution often bleeds into too damn slow. And in the meantime, kids are held in limbo and that’s not fair.
July 31st, 2008 at 1:10 am
Wow, that sucks. Sending positive thoughts to you and Callie and her sibs.
July 31st, 2008 at 2:45 am
So much for bed rest. How mindblindingly bogglingly horrific. Both the reality of the situation, and you having to be there today. I am so sorry for Callie especially. (ok, and for you and your dizziness, but some antibiotics will help that) I wish you all peace. I am off on vacation with the Dao. I’ll be back commenting in two weeks… take care til then eh?
July 31st, 2008 at 8:09 am
Permanency can’t be bought or sold or even legislated. You have it already. Especially with a person as old as Callie don’t worry about the ministrations of beauracracy. Get on with the business of life together. I already have a couple of daughters that are a little older. I never bothered to adopt…we don’t need it.
July 31st, 2008 at 2:12 pm
I will be furious if the system prolongs this until she ages out of the system. Callie deserves permanency and the extra feeling of security that it brings. I feel like the court should ask Callie what she wants because surely seventeen is old enough to choose. For both of your sakes, I hope this is resolved soon.
July 31st, 2008 at 2:22 pm
Sending hugs and good vibes your way…you and Callie need them. I sincerely hope the court system gets into gear and does what’s right.
July 31st, 2008 at 4:04 pm
it’s hard enough to be a teenager these days, but to be in Callie’s shoes… yuck. Hugs to you both.
July 31st, 2008 at 8:50 pm
If TPR is granted will you adopt Callie?