My mother lived through a similar experience. Her sister had a mental illness and refused treatment. She died at 53, not willing to go to a doctor or hospital to treat a simple infection.

My aunt had one daughter who was raised in this dysfunctional environment. My mom was torn to raise her neice, but breaking up families was frowned upon in those days. Looking back, I can see that our own family dynamic was not strong enough to handle an "outsider."

The daughter is functional. She has been living with the same fellow for at least 30 years. Every couple of years, they travel to Toronto to watch Blue Jay games. And she has worked at the same gas station for 45 years. No kids. I'm pretty sure my cousin had more potential than that occupation, but maybe that was her way of coping. We don't have much contact with her.

We are still in our infancy in treating mental illnesses.

Great story.