DEAR ABBY: My husband has been sick and unable to work for several years due to a debilitating illness. He has been home taking care of the kids while I have been working full time. We have lost everything because of the financial burden of his illness. I am very grateful to my parents for helping us financially during this tough time.
Unfortunately, I believe some of my family think my husband is faking his illness. This is hurtful since they have known him for a long time (we've been married 12 years). My sister recently asked him in a rather nasty way why he doesn't just go get a job, and I'm beginning to think that my parents share her sentiment.
He already feels guilty and worthless for not being able to provide for our family. It's coming to the point where I just want to get away from them and cut off contact. Should I address the issue or just let it go? -- SICK IN THE SOUTH
DEAR SICK: By all means address the issue. What your sister did was both cruel and out of line. Ask your parents if those are their sentiments as well, because you are concerned they might be.
If they are having doubts about your husband's physical problems, offer to share medical information that proves his health problems are all too real. Because your parents have been helping out financially, it might help to clear the air.