Mother Fights for Custody of Children Wrongfully Accused of Abuse
A mother in South Florida, Tasha Patterson, is facing a harrowing battle after the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) took her twin sons, accusing her of child abuse. Tasha claims that a medical condition caused her children’s injuries, while DCF insists they were victims of abuse.
Background of the Case
Tasha Patterson, a nurse practitioner, became concerned when her twin sons exhibited unusual symptoms shortly after birth. She reported increased fussiness and sought medical help, including multiple visits to the emergency room, but her worries were dismissed by healthcare professionals.
The Turning Point
During her last visit to the emergency room due to a concerning bruise on one of the twins, Tasha received shocking news: her son had sustained rib fractures and a minor liver laceration. This revelation led to accusations of child abuse against her and her husband, resulting in the termination of their parental rights and the children being placed in DCF custody.
The Medical Mystery
Subsequent to losing custody of her sons, Tasha was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), a genetic condition characterized by fragile skin and bones. This condition can be inherited, leading Tasha to believe that her twins may have suffered from EDS as well. Despite her attempts to have their medical records reviewed by specialists, DCF has yet to reconsider their stance.
Legal Perspectives
As Tasha and her husband prepare to return to court to reclaim custody, their attorney, Octavia Brown, argues that the evidence does not meet the threshold required to prove abuse. “It’s DCF’s job to say, ‘This is the evidence, and we know, clearly and convincingly, that these children have been abused,’” Brown stated. “In our opinion, they didn’t meet that standard.”
Broader Implications
The situation Tasha faces is not isolated. Parents across the United States have encountered similar allegations when their children suffer from EDS and sustain fractures. Rana Tyson, a Texas resident, has become an advocate for families falsely accused of abuse through her organization, the Fractured Families Foundation. Tyson aims to provide support and resources to those navigating such traumatic experiences.
A Mother’s Determination
Tasha Patterson remains unwavering in her quest to reunite with her sons. “We’re going on two years, and I am not going away until my children are able to be back in this house. I’m not going away,” she asserted, as she prepares for the upcoming court proceedings in hopes of reversing the decision that led to her sons’ separation from her family.
Authorities Unresponsive
Attempts to reach DCF for comment on the Patterson case have not been successful, leaving the family and their advocates with unanswered questions about the ongoing situation.
Conclusion
This distressing scenario highlights the challenges faced by parents when medical conditions are mistaken for abuse, underscoring the need for careful assessment and understanding in such cases. As Tasha navigates her fight for justice, her story serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in child welfare and parental rights.
