Dear Abby: Mom of special-needs child feels disrespected by family over wedding plans

A mother of a special-needs child expresses frustration over family disrespect regarding her inability to attend weddings, highlighting challenges faced by caregivers in social situations.

• The mother, who resides in the Midwestern United States, has a special-needs son and cannot travel alone with him, complicating her family obligations.
• She previously declined to attend her aunt's daughter's wedding last year due to these limitations, clearly communicating her situation to the family.
• As the aunt's son prepares to marry, the mother feels disrespected by the family's lack of understanding towards her circumstances and ongoing relationship.