RN_Renee

It is easy to become overwhelmed and especially so when our children have needs that require extra time and attention when we are worried about putting food on the table for them. You are working so hard to make a better life for your children and yourself despite the trials that you have been through. Your sense of frustration is coming through loud and clear, which is fine get it out and use it to power your progress. It won't be easy and in no way is it meant to sound like a discount to your situation or feelings, but do not let the situation and man that controlled your destiny this far continue to have control over your life. There is no shame in making use of the resources offered at food pantries. That's why they are there, and some day you will be in the position to give back to them. But for now, take the help they offer and you have one less thing to worry about. As a nursing student your time is at a premium, but check around with friends, your children's friends' parents, your children's teachers anybody that you would trust to help you find a barter relationship for childcare so that you can have time for clinical or studying. Also, perhaps you and your children can walk dogs and then use the funds to pay for childcare (children's ages unknown), or you could do laundry and mending from your home and then use the money for childcare. Perhaps your childcare provider would work out something with you to give you a tuition break, such as an afternoon cleaning the center on the weekend. These are just some ideas to start you thinking outside the box and realize that you have options that are only limited by the limits to your imagination. Most people are happy to help someone working so hard to build a better life for her family. What are the benefits of staying in school and eating oatmeal for a semester or two? How much better off i one, three, five years will your family be is you all make this sacrifice now? Would you consider spending a few minutes making a pros and cons list for yourself about these things. What about investing a little time to make a POC for someone "in your situation"? As a nurse, if you had a patient/client on the other side of the stethoscope in your position how would you proceed to help her discover her possibilities and support her. Please consider carefully Griffin123's post because there is some very sound advice. Good luck!