Clear up rumours one way or another

Dear Annie: My bullheaded 50-year-old daughter has taken gossip from 32 years ago to make my life a living hell.

I have four grown children. My older daughter called everyone she could think of and told them I molested my son when he was five. My daughter never checked to see whether it was true. I have never been arrested for this or had charges filed against me.

She further told all the grandchildren and great-grandchildren that they should never stop at my home.

I’m 74 years old, have trouble breathing and have cancer that’s in remission.

I want to see my family before it’s too late.

My daughter called my sisterin-law and told her she won’t go to my funeral when I die. I’ve been denied visits and phone calls from family members for three years.

I miss my family very much and desperately want them to visit me.

Sad and Lonely

Dear Sad: You say charges were never filed, nor were you arrested, but you haven’t said that you’re innocent of the accusation.

If the gossip is true, we completely understand why your daughter would want everyone to stay away.

If it is not true, you need to make it clear to the rest of the family that your daughter is spreading lies.

Please ask whether she would be willing to go with you for counselling to clear this up and to see whether there’s any possibility of reconciling before it is too late.