THE PRESENT

In 2001, while I was going through all this, I had an infection on my right foot that I was having treated in Syracuse. 

Soon after the trial, I don't know if it was the stress or what triggered it, but a viral infection, septic shock syndrome, shot throughout my body. I ended up losing the use of my kidneys, 25% use of my hands, and my right foot.

In January 2002, dialysis was performed for the first time. Soon after that, I ended up at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY to help with the infection. While I was there, I saw Dr. Mary I. Jumbelic on TV doing another case in that area. I wondered whose life she is ruining now.

Since this has happened, I have been in and out of the hospital several times due to the infection in my foot. In August of this year (2004) the doctors decided to do a below the knee amputation.

Being a diabetic, I'm more prone to such things, but I also know that the stress really pushed it along.

The mother and I never did get back together. We now live about 40 miles apart where she has a relationship with another partner. We get along great and she meets me often as I have weekend visitations with our son. Unfortunately, DSS put her on the child abuse registry due to her part in violation of the OOP.

I hope that no one has to go through what I went through. The public does need to be more educated about SBS and the myths surrounding it.

What really scares me is the amount of power that Family Court and DSS have. You have no defense.

I recently ran into Judge Richard Hunt at a gas station and told him "since you and DSS are no longer involved in my life, I'm finally having a decent relationship with my son."

"I do what's best for the children" was his reply. At least that's what he thinks.

Please read the following link as a Thank You to all the people who helped me through this ordeal.

THANK YOU

Frank G. Pickert