A separated parent is struggling after being excluded from critical medical information shared with their children.
My husband, “Dan,” and I are separated. Our children are ages 20 and 22. Dan has just been diagnosed with some type of serious medical issue . He has shared the information with our children but refuses to explain to me what is happening.
I am not being nosy; I simply believe that I should be aware of what’s going on for the sake of our children. Our kids are not currently on speaking terms, so they won’t discuss the issue with each other. One of them still lives at home and has been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, PTSD and major depressive disorder. They are not doing well and have been hospitalized multiple times over the past five years. They have no friends and no contact with extended family. The only people they interact with are me and their father. I feel it is very important to keep me informed so I can offer support and help both of our children deal with whatever is happening. Am I wrong to ask my ex to explain to me what is going on?You are not wrong to ask your estranged husband for that information, in light of the fact that one of the children you share has so many mental health challenges. However, if he refuses, you will have to accept it and deal with your children as best you can with limited information. Believe me, you have my sympathy.Dear Abby: Does concern for safety ever justify invading a parent’s privacy?Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, California 90069. Copyright 2026, Andrews McMeel Syndication.Jeanne Phillips, also known as Abigail Van Buren, has written the advice column “Dear Abby” since 2000, responding knowledgeably with the wit and compassion that earns her the loyalty of millions of fans. She’s...
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