I believe that nothing in our lives happens just by chancewere all responsible for the paths we take, and we alone must answer for our choices. The decisions I made in the past certainly shaped how my life turned out. One of my worst mistakes was tying my future to a reckless man. I fell for Thomas, trusted him, and even though I knew he was a womaniser, I convinced myself hed change for me. But, as it turned out, people rarely changeThomas was still chasing after other women even after our son was born.
Some time ago, whispers began to circle about Thomas and his latest escapades. Friends, neighbours, even relatives would tell me what theyd heard. I felt wounded and humiliated, and for years I lingered in that emotional fog. Eventually, Thomas left his flat and signed it over to our son, just so he wouldnt have to pay child support. I ended up renting a flat from him and moved in with my boy and my mother, who needed constant care.
I always tried to give my son the very best. Every pound I earned from renting out the flat went towards his schooling, clothes, and anything else he needed. I wanted him to have the sort of happy childhood I never had. The rest of the money went on bills, groceries, and medication for my mum. I kept telling myself that when my son was older, hed understand what Id given up for him. Now, at 57, Im battling diabetes, and I have to check my blood sugar levels constantly and inject myself with insulin just to get by.
The illness means I cant work, and, if Im honest, no company would hire a woman my age with diabetes these days. My only income is what I get from renting the flat. My son recently turned 31 and told me the tenants living in his father’s flat had to leave, as he wanted to move in with his wife. I explained Id have nowhere to go, and his reply was simply, ‘Thats your problem, not mine.’
I cant understand how Ive worked so hard my whole life, yet I have nothing left for retirement. I feel utterly lost. I need money for medication, food, and bills. How could my own child treat me like this? What sort of person does he think he is?
