My Father Abandoned Us, Leaving My Mum Buried in Debt—Since Then, I Lost My Right to a Happy Childhood

When I was ten years old and my younger brother was just three, our dad walked out on us. Hed fallen for another womanone he claimed was prettier than our mum. Dad left us the flat, which he and mum had originally bought with a hefty mortgage hanging over it. Back when Mum and Dad were still together, life was easierI went to a good school, took part in all sorts of competitions and clubs, and played basketball after class. Everything changed after the divorce.

Mum suddenly had to juggle two jobs at once. She spent her mornings cleaning houses and her evenings caring for an elderly lady down the road. Because of this, I had to transfer to a different secondary school, one within walking distance of our flat. I gave up basketball, too, since Mum needed me to mind my brother whenever she managed to be home. Our lives became quite unrecognisable from before.

Despite everything, I pushed through. I finished sixth form, went to university, and eventually got myself a proper job. Still, I cant help but feel like my carefree childhood was taken from me. Looking back, Ive realised that life isnt always fair or easy. But if theres one thing Ive learnt, its that strength often grows in the most difficult of times.