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Freeing Teresa

Freeing Teresa

A True Story about My Sister and Me — by Franke James

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Ten years ago today…

November 30, 2023 by Freeing Teresa


November 29, 2013

Ten years ago today, on Nov 29, 2013, I called my father about @TeresaHeartchild’s sudden placement in the nursing home.

He felt that she had been kidnapped. “Listen, I’m really upset now.” Dad was steaming. “I want somebody to bring me down there! And I want to get Teresa out.”

“Maybe we should take you down?” I said, “And we could try to get Teresa released.”


November 28, 2013

Ten years ago today, on Nov 28, 2013, I was heartbroken. I was visiting my sister @TeresaHeartchild on her second day at the Toronto nursing home. Teresa was sitting cross-legged on her bed. On the floor next to her was a row of big plastic shopping bags stuffed with her clothing & belongings. I was pleased that she hadn’t unpacked yet; I took it as a sign that she did not want to stay.
#Downsyndrome #forcedcare #activist #memoir #FreeingTeresa #truestory


November 27, 2013

Ten years ago today, on Nov 27, 2013, my life and @TeresaHeartchild‘s were changed forever. Teresa was taken out for a nice breakfast — and then put into a nursing home (with no medical need to be there and against her wishes).
Read the rollercoaster story — Freeing Teresa: A True Story about My Sister and Me

#memoir #books #disability #forcedcare #FreeingTeresa #TrueStory #DisabilityRights

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