Susan*
A family of five children entered the abuse and neglect system when one child, Susan, appeared at school with bruises, allegedly resulting from her mother striking her with a broomstick. Susan had led a solitary life. She was the only family member with a hearing disability. No family member had learned sign language or other alternative forms of communication to accommodate Susan’s needs.
Since the family members never effectively connected with her, Susan suffered from lack of communication, isolation, and appropriate bonding with her caretakers. In addition, she disclosed that she had experienced physical and sexual abuse by close family members.
Due to the persistence of Susan’s volunteer attorney, she was placed with a foster mother who taught at a school for hearing impaired children and Susan began counseling sessions with a therapist who knew sign language and specialized in attachment disorders. For the first time in her life, Susan is learning how to communicate with others and, consequently, is developing close relationships with adults who care for her.
To learn how you can help a child by representing them in a legal matter, please contact LFCA.