Hi Chelsea
I think that Billy Bob’s post says it all and I am so pleased he has written to you. In my turn I can tell you that your dad can change, he can be the dad you want him to be and not only that, he can be the dad he would rather be; if it was not so I wouldn’t be writing to you now.
I recognise everything that you have written and I appreciate how you feel he has used all his chances but sometimes when we walk the extra mile it can make all the difference and that is what you have done writing your post – well done.
Four questions to help me understand you and your situation better although please don’t write anything you are unhappy with. How is your mother handling all this? Do you have siblings? How old is your father? Do you live at home?
Your father will have to want the placement with GMA or it will not work for him but hopefully if he has reached a new low he hopefully will be willing to accept his addiction and change.
When an addiction is in a family there is often tears and anger but these don’t help the person with the addiction or those who are crying and angry. I am hoping you will tell you mum that you have sought support for you and that you can help her to understand what works and what doesn’t work with an active CG.
Your father’s behaviour is sadly not surprising but his addiction means that he is not emotionally mature and therefore behaves in a way that fathers should not behave in a perfect world. You seem very understanding and he is lucky to have a daughter like you who is trying to help him in spite of himself.
Keep talking Chelsea, join the groups, talk to our Helpline which is brilliant and maybe get your mother to do so too.
Speak soon
Velvet
