1. We have discussed depression and she is hesitant to seek medical attention in this area as she feels it will compromise her job (it won't but that is what she has in head).

2. She has made some concerning comments to which I have pointed out that if she decides to do something really stupid, it won't be just the one child's custody in jeopardy, but all the others.

3. A day out of shopping would sound like heaven to her on any given day. She rarely is able to take time out for herself and inevitably when we do go out, something happens with the kids. Her time is EXTREMELY limited as she works 2 jobs, is a single parent with several children. When she isn't working, the woman is EXHAUSTED. She is hesitant to accept outside help often saying, "It's my responsibility." I agree but I also think there is a limit.

4. This woman is the sister I never had. We've known each other for well over 20 years and have even lived together for a year. She's more family than friend. I can understand what you are saying about being on the sideline but I'm not sure I can know about this and be detached. I love her. I love her children. It breaks my heart to see her like this.

5. The father has been a holiday dad at best. He lives less than an hour away but sees his son maybe once a month while visiting his parents who live in the area. He takes the boy for overnights about once every 3 months and more often than not, returns him early because he can't handle the child. The boy has been stealing. Yes, it can be a phase but the intensity is growing. The mother does not have the father's phone number as his wife does not want her to call. All calls are made through the grandmother if and when she feels like calling and thinks the message is important. On his last visit, when informed of the stealing, his one and only comment to his son was, "Do it again and I'll break your fucking arm." It's an empty threat, I'm sure of that but how useful is that?

I talked with her for several more hours yesterday (she did not go to work as she just was unable to function). She sounds better, has a bit less panic in her voice and she is exhausted. She is physically exhausted and mentally exhausted. She's had enough. I'm hoping she'll wake up today and be ready to fight. It's not like her to lay down and give up on anything. If and when she moves beyond the panic and sadness of this situation, I would not want to be the father. Rage isn't pretty either but it will be easier for her to manage than being so overwhelmed.