SJL,

I'm so sorry, I didn't realise until how much you are going through and how much of an amazing person you are. If any one deserves a bit of a helping hand it's you, and if I could I would give you some of my own money to help out, but unfortunately I am struggling and I haven't even had all the things going on this year that you have. As everyone else has said, don't feel like a failure. Just the fact that you took your DD into your care when no one else was willing to, that shows such strength. Yes, you chose it, but does that mean you deserve help any less than someone who didn't choose to be in that situation? NO! You deserve it just as much if not more because you knew what you would be taking on and you still chose to do it. Your DD has a loving, wonderful mother who is doing everything in her power to provide for her, and that is what matter the most.

Most of the single mothers I have talked to in my area have said they have all had to get free food or vouchers at some point. I had to do it when I was pregnant and still with ExP. These days I am just lucky that Mum puts up with me at home for now.. There are days when I run out of money (and can't ask Mum for help because she has already left for work) and have to scrounge around for change just to catch the bus to uni and I wonder how single parents do it when they don't have the type of support I have.. When they have to pay rent or a mortgage, rates and electricity bills, and everything else under the sun, all by themselves - I'm just in awe. You're doing an amazing job. Just remember it's braver to ask for help when you need it, rather than never admit there is a problem and struggle on when you could be getting some much deserved help.


I hope you're feeling better today.