Health care aide is in danger while at work
DEAR AMY: I am working as a health care aide. Where I am working now I love my job, but the lady's husband is touching me inappropriately.
I don't like that but I don't know how to tell him to stop.
I can't quit my job because I really need the work. I am someone who is really shy about saying anything to anybody.
Please tell me what to do. I am freaking out. -- Worried Worker
DEAR WORRIED: I understand that when you are shy, it seems impossible to confront someone, even if he is doing something bad.
Please -- tell other people about this. Friends, family members -- or anyone else you can think of. The more people who know about this, the braver you will feel because of their support. Part of this man's power is in the secrecy and silence. You will take these away from him by telling other people about it, even if you can't manage to confront him directly.
If you work for a company, you must tell your supervisor about this. Your company cannot put you in the home of someone who will assault you. It should find another assignment for you.
In the meantime, whenever you are working in this home, do everything possible to avoid being alone with this man. Keep your phone with you at all times. The number for the National Sexual Assault Hotline is: 800-656-4673. Program this into your phone and call if you feel nervous. A phone counselor can help.
DEAR AMY: I'm really not asking a question as much as I am commenting.
This past summer I received an invitation to a baby shower that was to be held 1,500 miles from where I live. I have only met the expectant mother twice in my life, but she is the daughter of a much-loved nephew so I spent some time and money putting together a gift to send.
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