Michelle, what you have done and continue to do is admirable and I wish you, your partner, and Veronica all the best in such a sad situation. Did you have something in writing which authorised you to have her treated, medically , if need be, and appointing you to be her temp. guardian as far as school was concerned? I would think that would count for something, legally.

Also, are you allowed to send her cards, letters, or call her once in awhile? After things calm down a little?

It sounds as though she knows this, but it wouldn't hurt to affirm for her that she has a safe haven to come to if she just cannot take being at her mother's and decides to take things into her own hands by running away. She's getting close to that age where kids do such things when desperate.

This is one of those times when Mudcat really shines; when we can share a sorrow and in doing so, perhaps lessen it, even if it be but a little while.

I will include you and Veronica in my thanks givings and *see* the situation wokring out for the highest good of all concerned.

{{{{{{{{Michelle}}}}}}}}}

kat