I was the caregiver/POA/Executor for my parents,designated by my parents, before my parents were ever ill. I was the only daughter and also an RN. When I moved away from home, my parents followed 6 months later.
My father died from complications associated with Pulmonary Fibrosis, in January 2011. My mother died March 2012 when the Flu struck her hard, having multiple co morbidities. She had no fight in her and wanted to be with the love of her her life for 55 years. I was able to keep dad at home, and he died in his home. Mom had to go to skilled care for strengthening, being there 3 1/2 months, died in the hospital.I had quit my job as an RN in the ER to care for them and we were best friends! I had a family as well, and they also helped with cares many times. The brothers didn't help at all.
I had followed all dad and mom's requests as far as healthcare, finances, etc. Dad set up 3 CD's for me for the years I cared for them.(nothing close to what I would have made in the ER) They also left me their car since I was the one that hauled them everywhere for years. Their home and IRA was split 4 ways.
The brothers are dissatisfied with how mom and dad left things, claiming I abused my POA and stole from my parents by way of the CD's ,car,belongings, etc. Their claims and accusations are unbelievable. They have harassed me to the point I had to dissociate myself from them and block all contact per advice from the Sheriff. They are on their third lawyer, and I gave up the Executor position to the oldest brother. They have bullied everyone that has been involved and didn't pay any of them. The judge told their lawyer that this is a frivolous law suit, but they could go ahead if they want.
I had a Deposition with this third lawyer this week. They had an audit done and I answered all questions with documentation to back it up. Their lawyer told my lawyer that I "blew the m out of the water".
There is much more to the story, but I just need advice as to how this will end up and if it ever will end. There is no estate, just a few taxes to pay, which they wouldn't pay in 2012, so now their is tax plus interest. This has been more stressful than being a caregiver for my parents. The family has been torn apart. I have one brother that supports me, the other 3 are on the attack.
I am tired of paying a lawyer to defend me when I have done nothing wrong.
Nurses are patient I know, but you get the Florence Nightengale Award for this!
Congratulations!
And for those of you thinking about having a baby to provide the older kid a sibling because they deserve it, they need plaaaymates... well just read the original post here. Much of the problems encountered here, with all I've read, is the 'famblee' dynamics that have been in existence for all their time. It is sad, but even in these circumstances they still act out. God bless and hang in there.
Blessings,
Jamie
Thank you. I will pray for you as well. I understood your comments in the way you intended. I will post as soon as I hear a decision.
As for those caring for their parent, keep a daily journal. Then you have proof. I had that!
It hit home for me because I have 3 older brothers, one who died during the course of caring for my mom (& he was the only caring sensible one), and 2 who gave me nothing but grief...along with their wives, their grown sons, and even an ex-wife!!! I felt so alone, heartbroken, angry, frustrated, disillusioned, .... you name it,...I felt it.
My mom is now in AL but I'm still a wreck after all the stress and the family division is still active. 😞
Take care of yourself. They sure won't! !!
I've had peopl praying for a positive outcome and I pray daily that God reminds me to trust and give it all to Him.
Thank you everyone!!!
Obviously I'm not experienced in litigation throughout the US, but in Michigan, suits of the nature in question don't drag on for years. Specific milestones are established to keep the suits running through the dockets. Complex litigation and class action suits are more likely to be long and protracted.