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Ask Amy: Drunken daughter makes tragedy worse

Amy Dickinson, Tribune Content Agency on

If this was a one off, I might be inclined to back down. However, Belle’s young adulthood has been a series of fender benders and public intoxication citations.

I told Belle that she needed to get into therapy and/or rehab in order to stay in touch with Hank and me. Jodie is blasting me, stating that Belle has promised not to drink anymore and that my hard stance is unnecessary.

I told Jodie and Belle that I do not think you can "hug it out" when someone is an alcoholic.

Am I being too harsh?

I want my son to have family around him, and Belle is his only sibling.

Thoughts?

 

– Sad Mom

Dear Sad: I’m so sorry about all you’ve been through.

You communicated your stance: “Get help or keep your distance” directly to your stepdaughter, “Belle.”

Her mother “Jodie” responded.

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