Grieving a Father Who Is Still Alive: Chaos, Betrayal & Breaking the Cycle

This episode discusses death of a minor, emotional abuse, family estrangement, and traumatic birth/NICU experiences.

Ciyla Fletcher is only 25, but she has lived a dozen lifetimes. From moving 15 times before adulthood to being raised by grandparents while her parents drifted in and out, Ciyla learned early on that "chaos felt like safety." But the hits didn't stop at childhood instability.

At 16, Ciyla lost her best friend and first love, Bailey. Instead of support, she faced a campaign of jealousy and rumors from her own family members who told her she "had no right to grieve." Now, as a mother of two and a nursing student, Ciyla is rewriting the definition of family. In this raw conversation, we discuss the pain of having a father who calls you a "stranger," the maturity required to co-parent peacefully at 20 years old, and why being thankful you don't understand betrayal is the ultimate sign of healing.

Connect with Ciyla: Instagram: @ciyla.xo

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