A person with a troubled childhood, marked by over-responsibility as a caregiver, is now facing a crisis as their husband's ill daughter and toddler move in. Having previously escaped caregiving roles by building a career and friendships based on equality, the current situation evokes deep discomfort. Responsibilities for the stepdaughter's care have fallen to them, exacerbating feelings of dread and guilt stemming from their past experiences. The transition from a non-nurturing lifestyle to becoming a caretaker brings significant emotional challenges, raising fears about personal boundaries and inherited trauma.
"I was the oldest of six and was expected to parent my siblings. I remember changing my first diaper at age 4 and getting yelled at for warming bottles wrong around 5."
"I built a career where I am not expected to nurture children or ill people. I have friendships built on equal exchange where it's understood that I'll support my friends with kids, but I will never babysit for them."
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