One of Millions Continued Part 2

So what exactly was causing Pushpa to become so ill at home? Was it neglect or something worse?


In her home Pushpa was isolated in her own room, rarely did any of her family members make an effort to talk to her, let alone spend time with her. In fact, there were times when she was tortured and demeaned by members of her own family, shouting at her that they could not stand to even look at her. Hence, they would shut the doors and close her in her room for hours at a time. Often it would get dark outside, and Pushpa would be left sitting alone in the empty darkness of her room. Bedridden she was helpless to even get up and turn on a light switch. There was no light switch close by, there was no telephone that she could use close by. Countless times Pushpa's other relatives had suggested to "the one she trusted"(TOST) that an elder user friendly telephone, with large numbers and speed dial, be provided for her, and placed in a permanent position within Pushpa's reach. TOST refused, insisting the cordless telephone was sufficient. It was not. First, Pushpa's eyesight had deteriorated to the point that she could no longer read the numbers, to make use of the cordless telephone. Secondly, no one cared enough to make sure that the cordless phone was always charged and placed at her side.


Mealtimes were not something Pushpa could look forward to anymore. Pushpa had always loved to cook and took pride in preparing meals for her family and friends.TOST had never liked spending time in the kitchen. Meals were cooked only a few of times during the week. For most meals, Pushpa was eating leftovers, which would often be spoilt. Despite having two refrigerators, food was left outside for days on the kitchen countertops. Even other family members would refuse to eat this food, choosing to eat out more often than not. TOST was too busy living her own life to care. Basic staples, like bread and milk would be expired, not to mention sour. Pushpa was completely dependent on whatever was offered. When she dared to complain, the response from TOST was that if she did not like the food that was offered, she should get up and make it herself. If only Pushpa could.


To be continued...