File photo of a worried woman

Concerns for a Disabled Neighbor

Dear GhanaWeb,

Recently, I have become increasingly concerned about the well-being of a disabled man who lives next door to me. He uses a wheelchair, has limited mobility, and is unable to speak, but he communicates through gestures and expressions. He resides with his brother and his brother’s wife in the same fenced compound.

From what I have gathered, the man has been living with his condition since birth, and after the passing of their parents, the responsibility of his care fell upon his brother. However, I have observed troubling behavior from the brother’s wife towards the disabled man, particularly when her husband is not present.

It is disheartening to witness the mistreatment this vulnerable individual endures, such as being left outside in the scorching sun for extended periods without food or water. When questioned about her actions, the wife justified her behavior by claiming the man needed to “air out” after allegedly urinating on himself.

Despite my attempts to address the situation and advocate for the disabled man’s well-being, the wife has become hostile towards me and ceased communication. It is evident that she conceals her true treatment of the man when her husband is around, putting on a facade of care and affection.

Feeling a sense of helplessness, I found myself in a dilemma on how best to raise awareness to the brother about his wife’s actions. In a moment of frustration and compassion, I took matters into my own hands and brought the disabled man into my home to provide him with proper care and comfort.

However, as days passed, I found myself crossing boundaries and engaging in inappropriate behavior with the disabled man. I discovered a physical attraction towards him, leading to a regrettable situation where my actions turned into a sexual relationship. This has resulted in an unexpected pregnancy, adding another layer of complexity to the already delicate circumstances.

As I grapple with the consequences of my actions and the impending decision on whether to disclose the truth to the man’s brother or consider other options, such as abortion, I am faced with uncertainty and fear of the potential outcomes. The disparity in social standing between us adds another layer of complication to the situation.

Seeking guidance and advice on how to navigate this delicate and morally challenging predicament, I am torn between conflicting emotions of guilt, desire, and practical considerations for the future. Your insights and perspectives would be greatly appreciated in helping me determine the best course of action in this troubling situation.

FG/EB

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