Nervous...have to testify in court tomorrow

Sally J · March 2011

I haven't posted much at all on the board lately. I lurk and answer when it's something I can contribute, but I love keeping up with everyone!

A little background: My DD is also my niece since her BM is my sister. My sister is a meth addict and had her rights terminated with my DD since she was born testing positive for meth. My DD's older 2 siblings are in custody/guardianship with their paternal grandmother. We finalized nearly 2 years ago and family relationships are very tense.

My sister had her 4th baby, a girl, last August. For many reasons we chose not to step in and my cousins stepped in to take power of attorney (my sister is serving a 5 yr sentence for drugs) of Baby L. They recently gained temporary custody and tomorrow is the permanent custody hearing.

I am testifying on their behalf, against my sister. I know I am absolutely doing the right thing, especially for Baby L and her wonderful parents. I am just nervous to say out loud in front of a court that my sister is an unfit parent. I never had to face my sister and 'choose sides' with Charlotte because the state determined she was unfit and terminated her rights.

I'll come back tomorrow to give an update...but just wanted to post somewhere others might understand these kinds of complex feelings.

Art Teacher · March 2011

Sally - I just wanted to wish you luck tomorrow. I can imagine how hard this must be...I can understand your nervousness about saying she's an unfit parent in front of her. Yes, you are definitely doing the right thing since she's being taken care of by your cousins now. But I'm sorry it's so hard. Hope it goes okay tomorrow.

I love the picture of Charlotte and Cooper in your signature -- too cute. I haven't been on your blog in a little while; I'll have to check out your latest photos. (You're so talented!)

koda927 · March 2011

Will be thinking of you tomorrow.

Honeydew1894 · March 2011

That must be so hard, but it is the right thing to do. Best of luck and please update us.

mcmann05 · March 2011

Good luck! I hope you find the strength to get through the day!

Floridamom224 · March 2011

Good luck! I can only imagine how tough it is to sit in court and testify to how unfit of a parent your sister. Just remember the end prize...your niece will get to be permanently with her family, just like your DD is with you! Good luck! I will be thinking of you!

Dr.Loretta · March 2011

I can't even imagine, but I'm sure you'll do fine and Baby L will be with people who can take care of her the way she needs it. GL and let us know how it goes.

Cissi64 · March 2011

You'll do fine! You have the motivation of doing what is right for Baby L just as you did what was right for Charlotte. I know it is hard to go against family. Wishing you the best of luck and lots of strength!

yuengling58 · March 2011

You are definitely doing the right thing. Good luck today!

FinallyMrs.G · March 2011

Best of of luck! You are doing the right thing.

CaptainSerious · March 2011

I'm thinking of you today, Sally! I know your family has pressured you in many ways and doesn't approve of you insisting to be recognized as C's mother. I can only imagine how difficult they are making this on you, but you know in your heart that you are doing the right thing for that little girl and the only family she's known. I'm sending you all sorts of strength today as you stand firm and say what needs to be said.