DAUGHTER-IN-LAW SPIKES FOOD WITH LAXATIVES: AM I WRONG?

Am I wrong for wanting to cut ties with my daughter-in-law after a disturbing incident? I’m Barbara, a 45-year-old divorcee, and this involves my son’s wife, Clara, who is 30.

The trouble started a few months ago when I moved in with my son, Jake, and Clara after my health began to decline. I have chronic arthritis, and living alone was becoming a challenge. Clara seemed supportive at first, offering to help me adjust to my new living situation.

However, things took a strange turn. I noticed that every time Clara prepared meals, I suffered severe stomach pains and other distressing symptoms shortly after eating. Initially, I thought it was my medications or perhaps a stomach bug, but the pattern was too consistent to ignore.

One day, fueled by suspicion, I decided to watch Clara as she cooked. I was horrified to find her adding a substantial amount of laxatives to the dish she was preparing specifically for me. Confronting her was difficult; she initially denied it, then broke down and admitted she had been doing this for weeks. Her justification was shocking—she said it was because she felt I was too controlling and invasive in their lives, and this was her way of making me uncomfortable enough to leave.

I was appalled. This breach of trust felt like a betrayal not just from a family member but from someone I had come to rely on in my vulnerable state. I told Jake what had happened, but Clara convinced him that it was a misunderstanding, suggesting I must have misinterpreted her actions due to my age and health.

Now, I feel unsafe and unwelcome in my own son’s home. I’m considering moving out and cutting ties, not only with Clara but potentially with Jake as well, as he has chosen to support her over me.

Am I wrong for wanting to leave this toxic situation, or should I try to mend things for the sake of family unity?

Here are some comments:

• That’s absolutely horrifying! Your health and safety come first. It might be best to live somewhere you feel secure and respected.
• What Clara did is not only morally wrong but also illegal. Have you thought about speaking to a professional for advice?
• It’s heartbreaking to hear that your son isn’t supporting you in this. Family should protect each other, not harm.
• Maybe try family counseling? It sounds like there are deeper issues that need to be addressed with a professional.
• It’s important to set boundaries, especially with family. You did the right thing by standing up for yourself.
• Clara’s actions are inexcusable. Moving out seems like a wise decision until everyone can understand the gravity of her actions.
• It’s distressing that she would go to such lengths. Your well-being is the priority, and staying there might not be safe.