:thumbsup: well i am new to pto. i think the idea of place where family and friends of incarcerated loved ones can come was good idea. My brother will be home soon and well i just don't know what to expect....I look forward to talking to some of you!

bren

Welcome to the community. :)

Welcome Welcome!!!! this is a wonderful place, you will find unconditional support here!

Welcome to PTO. congradulations on your brother coming home soon.


You have found a wonderful place here.

Welcome. I Am A New Comer Also. Congrats On Your Brothers Upcoming Release. I Hope You Enjoy The Support From Pto.

Welcome from my frozen world of Minesota. Glad you found us....


Peter

Welcome to PTO ...I am new also...yesterday was my first day.
Congrats on your brothers soon homecoming!!!!

Can't wait till my brother is out also!!!!

Bren0023 and missingmybroang - Great that you found PTO. This place will be able to provide so much information and support. Also looking forward to hearing how bren's brother is doing once he's home.Please keep us posted.

i sure will DLM. I can only hop for the best!
bren

Hi Brenn!!

I'm new to PTO, myself.

I had no idea that these services were available, until I looked for the phone number of a particular institution.

This is a great idea! Finally an opportunity for people to reach out to each other for support. I hope things go well for you and your brother. Please keep us informed, as my brother will be coming out soon and I would also like to know what to expect.

Alzab

Welcome to PTO.

Hi Alzab-Yes, this is a great place for support and lots of information. Great news about your brother being released soon! Please keep us posted.

Welcome to PTO!!!!!!!!!!!!

Welcome to PTO!

HELLO!! welcome. i am also new. :)

Just want to wish you a welcome to PTO both missing and bren

SpRaNkY- Welcome to the Siblings Forum- so glad you found us:)! Do you have a brother or sister in prison?

Welcome to all the newbies on this thread, I think I counted 3, or maybe i missed one!! Welcome to all of you....I have a brother in prison too, He is actually coming home in a week and a half. I am really excited for him. I have told him about PTO too, and he is looking forward to all the help and support that he can get from this as well as the help and support that I get having another loved one in prison too!!!! PTO Rocks!! and everyone is so helpful!!

Welcome elephantstamper to the Siblings Forum! That is so exciting to hear your brother will be home so soon - looking forward to hearing how he adjusts so I hope you both will be here often :)

Hi everyone,

I just joined the forum. My sister has been in Alderson for one month now and will be there for about a year. I hope that I can find people who have family members in Alderson or people who have been there so that I can find out what it's like.

I really want to be able to support my sister, but she has a problem with lying, so I never know what to believe. I hope that people here can help me out with that too.

Wayne

Hi Wayne and welcome to PTO- so glad you found us. This is a great place to come to for support and information. When you get a minute you might check out the Federal Forum to find out what Alderson is like. So many of us know how you must be feeling so I hope you will come here often:)!

Was just looking around on the net and came acrossed this website, my brother just went into prison in may of this year...And while it hasn't been easy for me to accept him not being here, my mother, bless her heart is having a very difficult time dealing with this and I hope by sending her this link, she will find what she needs to find...

THarrison0204- Welcome to PTO- so glad you found us! Hope you and your mother will come here often (there is a forum for Parents with Children in Prison ).This is a great place to find information and support. I know how you both must be feeling- every member of the family becomes affected in such different ways.

12/1/04 Just new to this site. My brother, age 49, was moved from Washington state to Appleton, Minnesota. Just returned from trip to see him with my 87 year old mother, who thought she would move back there to be near him. Wow, what a beautiful place, but small! Thank goodnes that she returned with me. But she is planning to move soon. We looked into HUD housing in the town, but family won't let her take the car back. Everything available is unfurnished and no place nearby to get 2nd hand stuff. I was not impressed with only hotel Super 8 in town. Very smoky for asthmatic me. Just a few resturants and good food. Subway is new. A beautiful library in town with internet, so teaching Mom to work e-mail. What a trooper. Mom helps keep brother focused and lets him get out of cell. Wish that he could e mail family here in Washington. Like that you can visit Friday through Monday at Prairie CC. Seems clean and new in 1996. Brother will miss getting outside as the weather gets cold. He doesn't mind the cold as he skiied and mountain climbed. I was at Sears paying a bill yesterday and in conversation mentioned that I had just got back from MN. The gal behind me said she was planning a trip to MN. Asked her where and unbelievable that she was going to Appleton. We went to dinner and compared notes and pain as it was her son in prison. She not sure if she can afford to go. Said wait until summer and camp out. Some very nice places.
SisterJo

Hello my name is Maria also known as Ravenslove. I have a man in RCI Chillicothe. I also have a brother in LaECI. He recieved 4 years 11 months flat time. Looking forward to reading this forum.

Welcome to the Siblings Forum Maria! Looking forward to hearing more about your brother and how you are dealing with things etc.

SisterJo- Welcome to the Siblings Forum! I am glad you found us -you will find lots of support here. I'm looking forward to hearing more about your brother.

Hello everybody! Well, my little brother is in the Texas DCJ system and I just got back from seeing him for the first time in 3 years....I am so glad I finally made the trip to North Texas. I miss him so much and it was an emotional experience for me and my family. I feel so helpless and I wish I could do something to get him released. This place seems like the place to be and I hope to hear some feedback as well as advice and support.

I hope to hear from someone soon.....

Thanks!

Willie G.

Welcome to PTO Willie -you will find lots of support here! It must have been wonderful finally seeing your brother after 3 years- will you be able to visit again soon? Are you able to write to him? I am sure there are a great many of us here who can relate to how you are feeling right now. I hope you will be a frequent visitor here- it does help knowing you are not alone!

Hello. My brother was sentenced to 8 years in prison on 10/29. He was just recently transferred from Tarrant County to Middleton. The kind words and support that I have received here has been wonderful. I pass as much information that I can on to my nieces (his daughters) and you guys here have been great at giving information. Thanks everyone!

Welcome to the Siblings Forum dallasgal84 ! PTO is a great place for support and information so I hope you will be a frequent visitor. Will you be able to visit your brother?

Yes, I will be going this Saturday with my oldest niece to visit. Not sure how I am going to react when I see him since they have shaved his head and his beard. I can't even begin to imagine what he looks like. My niece said he looks like an elf.

Welcome to PTO Willie -you will find lots of support here! It must have been wonderful finally seeing your brother after 3 years- will you be able to visit again soon? Are you able to write to him? I am sure there are a great many of us here who can relate to how you are feeling right now. I hope you will be a frequent visitor here- it does help knowing you are not alone!
DLM-

Thanks for the warm welcome. Yes, I will be visit him frequently. We line in Houston and he is in Lamesa, Tx (Smith Unit), so you can imaginre the drive. But I tell you wat....it was well worth it. Him seeing me, made his Christmas. I cried, my mom cried and he hugged me and sai not to worry. But it was and is hard for me to see my lil bro (he is 6 yrs younger) that way. But he understands and he is sorry for what he did. He got 6 years for agg robbery, he has done 3 so far. He has gotten his edu., a trade and is a trustee. He says that he is fine and that he is just "adjusting" to his pen-life. I just asked him to fly straight and come home. I miss my brother!!!

Thank you for responding and you can most certainly bet I will be here everyday, hour, minute and second. Thank you for your hospitality everybody.

WillieG -at least he has learned a trade and is a trustee so the time was not wasted and he is half-way through the sentence- something positive to come out of all of this!
Dallasgal84- looking forward to hearing about your upcoming visit with your brother!

New to this - anyone listening

Welcome to PTO spx-This is the forum to come to if you have (or had) a sibling in prison. if you would like to post an Intro.telling us a little about yourself you can do it here.If you have a problem/question you can start a New Thread or if you want to answer a previous thread just go to Quick Reply!

I am new here too. My brother is in prison in texas. I also think that is site was a awesome idea. I hope it helps alot more people.

Welcome to PTO lookin4mybro! You will find lots of support and information here!:)

Hello everyone this is my first time on this web site I have a brother who is boscobel and I have a few questions about the place can anyone be of assistance?

Welcome to PTO Baby Sis- you will find lots of support and information here! I did a search (top of the page) and there are some posts about Boscobel in the Wisconsin Forum (if that is where your brother is). If you need any more help please ask :)

Hello. Me too. I am listening if you need to talk.New to this - anyone listening

I am glad that there is a site for people like me and that I am not alone. It is nice to find people to talk to about having loved ones in prison and not have them turn there face on u like u are the criminal as well. I hope to hear from some of u. Thanxs :wave:

Welcome to the Siblings Forum babykat- glad you found us! :)

i am so happy i found this website! my little sister (44) is being sentenced on 3/31/05 in federal court; this started 2 yrs ago; it feels like ten; my friends have been so supportive and awesome but they can't understand how i feel like i'm going to prison too, when she goes i go...i feel so upset sometimes; i'm trying to keep my emotions together but the closer it gets the more freaked out i'm becoming...i'm sad, i love her, my kids love her, we're in custody battle for my godson/nephew who i started watching when he was 6 wks old; who is now 9yrs old and i love just as i love my kids and he feels the same...i'm pissed at her...i'm selfish thinking of how she won't be there for me to lean on...i keep flashing back to when we were little kids and we'd hold hands; we still do (esp. when either one of us is upset) and that i'm having to let go of hers...okay i know; enough of my "pity party" -- but there has been no place for me to say stuff like that....thank you for being here...sorry that you have to be...but i feel like i've found a lifejacket. m

upsetsis- Welcome to the Siblings Forum and to PTO- so glad you found us! I know how you must be feeling right now- the whole gamut of emotions and I don't think it's at all selfish to feel angry that you won't have her to lean on. It really helps though coming here and knowing others are feeling the same way. Looking forward to reading more of your posts so please keep us updated on your sister.If you haven't already you should check out the Federal Forum which is full of information.PM me anytime if you need any help etc.:)

Hi everyone

I am new here and wanted to say hi.

I'm Denise from Alabama.
My brother is incarcerated in Elmore CF..in Alabama. His release date is set for Jan 2006. This isnt his first time in jail...he is a repeat offender.

I am so glad that I stumbled upon this site. Its great to know there are people who understand what we deal with and are going through also.
I just pray that Thomas will realize he has an alcohol problem and gets the help he needs..so this will be his last time locked up.

I look forward to reading the posts and leaving some of my own.

Have a nice day everyone
Dixee

Hi
I wanted to take a moment to intro myself and tell a little about my story.
I'm Dixee (Denise)..I live in Alabama.
My younger brother is incarcerated in Elmore CF in Elmore Alabama.
Thomas has an alcohol problem..which has led to many stints in numerous state facilities...mainly in Alabama.
Each time Thomas goes to jail..I lose a little more of my heart and I feel as if we the family are in jail also...in a way we are.
Thomas doesnt think he has a problem with drinking...according to him he has a problem with drinking & driving. *sigh* Until he realizes he has a problem and deals with the issue..nothing I say will make a difference I am afraid. Its like beating my head against a brick wall. I dont want to preach to him....I'm not perfect by any means...we all have our faults. I just hate to see him travel down the same road..over and over again.
I go visit him every other Sunday when I can..and I send money and 3 or 4 letters each week. I try to keep him updated on things..and send pics of my kids whom he is very close to. My boys dont understand why he isnt here with us...but they are young and not expected too.
In short...I wish Thomas would make the decisions he needs to make.... to change his life and habits ....until then all I can do is be here for him and try to support him the best I can.
When a loved one goes to prison...we all suffer.

Thanks for listening.
I am so glad that I stumbled across this group...it helps to talk with people that truly understand and have been where we are today. Friends help alot..but unless they have been in this situation..I dont think they can truly understand what goes on with us..and how this affects everyone involved.

I look forward to reading your posts and leaving some of my own.
Have a nice day y'all

Dixee

Hi i'm new too, my name is Breanna and my brother is a washington state transfer to Minnesota. This is a cool place to get support.

Welcome to PTO Siblings Forum Breanna! You will find lots of support here so I am glad you found us.Just ask if you need any help finding your way around.

Hi! My little brother was just sent to Middleton Unit the first of this month. My family has never been through this and we are worried sick. He talks about the stabbing that took place there last week and I am so worried.
Like I said, we are new to the system and don't know what to do or how to go about sending him money, pictures or anything that he is allowed to have.
Can anyone take me under your wing and show me the way to go about these things and help with future questions.
Thanks
"Lost Little Butterfly" :(

Welcome to the PTO Siblings Forum Butterfly! You will find lots of information here.If you go to the Texas Forum and check under Texas Prison Profiles you will find different posts about Middleton.You can ask questions there too about the unit and I know members will be able to help you. It helps knowing you are not alone- we all know how you and your family are feeling now and coming here is a great place to get support.Just ask if you need any help -looking forward to reading more of your posts.

Hi...My name is Martha...My younger brother is at R.M.C West Unit in Lake Butler, Fl. His permanent camp is Gulf C.I though. He has been in the FLA DOC since November and has a 18 month sentence. But, with some time served and gain time he should be out by October 05!! He has been in and out of county jail since he was 18 as well as rehabs too. I am glad there other people out there with the same kind of situation as me! I am hoping that being in prison will be his wake up call....I want him to stay away from the drugs and the crummy people he ran around with!
The first time I saw him in Prison...was the hardest day of my life, so far! I had visited my cousin in prison many times already but seeing my brother was so much harder! He looks healthier and has a good attitude about it! He has a great personality and loves to joke so that made it a little easier! But, when the time came to say good bye I lost it...I cried so hard and then had 3 hour drive back home!! So, I cried and cried the whole way home....That drive gave me to much to think about him and why he was there and how I wished he wasnt! I have been back to see him a few times, but since I live in Texas and he is Florida its hard to get there a lot! Its easier each time I go but saying good bye is so hard! I cant wait for him to come home!

Welcome to the PTO Siblings Forum Martha! October is just a few months away-the next few months will fly by and before you know it your brother will be home! Glad you found us and looking forward to reading more of your posts:)

Thanks...I am glad to have found yall as well!! Makes me feel better to relate with others!!

I'm new too, yesterday was my first day. My brother is currently serving a 3 year sentence at Sterling Correctional Facility :(
Feel free to PM me anytime.

Welcome to the Siblings Forum kerbalee! You will find lots of support here and please just ask if you need help finding your way around:)

Hi I am new to PTO my mom emailed me the site. I haven't been doing to well since my brother was taken from me.. It seems Like they took part of me with him. We were able to see him once since the 1st of June, Trial Day. Then they decided to movve him from WA to Cali. This is the Military for you. He got to Cali and they didn't want him so back on the plane he went. We went up father's day weekend and yet again they would not let us see him. They put him back in solitary to prepare to move him back to Cali this was only a week later. He was in Miramar for a total of 9 days. Just getting used to the new place got his phone card turned on. We get the phone call he is being transferred across country to South Carilona. Has anyone heard of so much moving? I think this will help my sister and I alot. This way we don't always vent to each other. Thank you so very much.. Any insight or info and Prayers are always welcome and appreciated.

I'm also new to the forum. My brother is in his 3rd year of a 15 year sentence. I'm looking forward to getting to know others who can relate to what he and our family are going through.

Free Pat and endless681-Welcome to the Siblings forum and to PTO.Glad you found us. You will find lots of support and information here:)

Hi!!! everybody its so very nice to have people to talk to about my ups and downs while my brother is locked up. Its all very new to me and my family to be going through something like this alone. My brother is in the Hughes Unit in texas. But lucky for us he is not that far from home maybe a 1hr away so we can go see him every weekend. So anyways thank yall! very much for your support.

Welcome to the Siblings Forum jamie- glad you found us! Please come and visit often - this is a great place for support!:)

I have been with pto a week, I guess, and I just keep finding forums that are of special interest to me. I have seen so much that is posted about husbands, boyfriends, and wives and girlfriends I was beginning to wonder where I was going to fit in here. So this is great

Welcome to the Siblings Forum Atalie- so glad you are here! It's a wonderful place to come to for support.Please ask if you need help finding your way around :)

Hi my sister just got sentenced to prison for 2nd degree murder !!!! Just like that ...her boyfriend shoots himself during their struggle for the gun and she is left with this horrible situation. the trial lasted tstarted half day wednesday and was over on friday . That was not her jury of her peers...I believe the jury were jelous of her vast academic achievment and convicted her without examining the evidence !!! I am hopeful the Appeals court will overturn the conviction due to lack of appropriate jury instructions !!!

Welcome to the Siblings Forum MAGNA- so glad you found us. I am really sorry to hear about your sister and I can only hope, along with you and your family, that the appeal will be successful. Please keep us posted when you get more information and keep coming here for support.Stay strong and positive.

i am new to this also my brother is comeing home in Nov. does anyone know what to expect with out of state transfer?

Welcome to the Siblings Forum teresarjamison- so glad you found us! Good to hear your brother will be home in just a couple of months! I don't know which state your brother is in but you should check out the PTO state forums- hopefully someone in that state(forum) will be able to provide you with the information you need.Good Luck and just ask if you need any help finding your way around:)

Hi Teresajamison, welcome to PTO. Can't answer your question, but this forum is great for siblings.

My God bless your family and help your brother find his way back into this world. Good luck to you both!!!

this is a great site. im still looking for where my brother was sent i checked where he was supposed to be and they have no record of him being there. so i guess i will just have to wait until he makes contact.

butterfly- Welcome to the Siblings forum- so glad you found us. I posted a response in your post "where is my brother" so hopefully you will be able to locate him soon. This is a great place to come to for support and information so visit often and let us know when you find him:)

hello my name is gabby i also hav a brother in prison and i understand what u all r going through.

Welcome to the Siblings Forum gabby!:)

Hello everyone, I am new here, this is my first post. My brother got sent from the local jail to Camp Hill this morning and I was just curious if anyone knows anything about it. I have done some research and all I see is bad info about how things run there. Can someone give me something to ease my mind. I am not sure how long he will be there before he get transferred again but I am just going crazy here wondering. THANKS!!!

jcqlneve- Welcome to the PTO Siblings Forum-glad you found us. Hopefully you might find the information you need about Camp Hill in the Pennsylvania State Forum (assuming that's where it's located). Just ask if you need any help finding your way around!

HI,
My name is Jessica. I'm 9 years old. My brother got sent to prison for drinking under age at a bar. I miss him so much. Some of my friends are asking where my brother is because they know him and have seen him before. Sometimes it makes me cry. I told my best friend, Kelly, and she said that she prayed for me. But I cry every night before I go to sleep. It makes me dream of the times we spent together, and when I wake up, I feel that he is still in the other room next to me. But when I hear my sister waking up, I cry because I know that Bubba isn't there. It makes me feel bad because I miss him so much. Please tell me what I should do something to clear off my mind about him so I want be sad. PS He's the best and only brother I will ever have.

JK

Hello.
I live in Arizona, but I have a younger brother who has been on Ohio's DR since 1998.
I'm not totally new to PTO, but I want to thank everyone who has made me feel welcome here.

Jessica, I know right now is a very hard time for you. Write letters to your brother, that will make him seem not so far away. (That is what helps me). And remember...he will be home.

Welcome to the Siblings Forum Jessica:). I am sorry to hear about your brother and I know how you are feeling. As thinkink said, writing letters and sending drawings etc will help both of you feel less apart and lonely. I think that's one of the most important things you can do right now and before you know it he will be home with you again.

Thinkink-Welcome to the Siblings Forum. I am so sorry to hear about your brother and I hope you will visit here often and keep us updated on his case.

I wish I could say the same but I know that my brother will be home also it just can't get here fast enough.Best of luck to you and keep us posted we all want to know how he is doing.

Jessica, welcome to PTO. I am sorry about what happened to your brother. My brother is in prison too. I find writing to him helps a lot, and this is a place you can always come to, blessings to you and your brother, Atalie

Gosh Jessica, I am so sorry.
My little brother was just sent to prison Sept. 27th and I know how hard it is. I have an 11 year old daughter who just adores her uncle and misses him so much. So I can understand your pain. I am pretty new here too. Since I have joined I come on here every night and it helps me so much. The people here are so kind & caring. Whenever you need someone, they are always here. I have even made a couple buddies that I chat with regularily. It helps so much. I worry about my little brother so much and miss him lots. I write him just about every night. Make sure you write to Bubba a lot. I think that will help the both of you get through this. I will pray for you & your family. Take it one day at a time and know that it is ok to cry, I do it often myself. You take care of yourself!

Hi to allnew members. I thought I was checking this forum pretty frequently, but so many of you are new. PTO is a great place to get support and make friends. Bless you all, Atalie

hi my name is angela and my brother is in prison...he will be there for a very long time....so i had to find a place where i could come and get some information about the NC prison systems....and thus far its all been bad .....so i am kind of in shock about how things are ran in NC and in the whole US for that matter...but i would just like to say hi and thank you all for letting me join the community with everyone as well...

angela

Hi Angela -Welcome to the Siblings Forum- I am sorry to hear about your brother but I am so glad you found us:). If you haven't already you should check out the North Carolina State Forum for information.

Hi Angela, welcome.

Hi everyone. I'm new here too. I'm 17 and my brother's serving a 4 year sentence in Illinois. He's got 14 months left! (Thank God). I just wanted to say hi

Welcome BabyTony to the Siblings Forum- glad you found us! I am happy to hear your brother will be out in 14 months -hopefully they will go by very quickly:).

thank you!

hello jessica, angela and anyone else that is new to the sibling forum. I am a mother of five boys 22, 20,11,9 and 3 years old the oldest one is the one in prison. and I tell all the other boys to pray,write to him,send pictures. I know it is very hard for you and I hope that the days go by faster and know that this is not forever.my oldest son told all the younger ones he is in big boy time out and to remember that everything has consequences. we all need to be good and stay strong. we can all get through this its just really hard just remember to pray and god will help you.god bless you have a good day.anna

hEY, I TO AM NEW TO THIS PTO. MY BROTHER IS HAS BEEN SENT TO BUTNER IN NORTH CAROLINA...DOES ANYONE KNOW HOW THAT PLACE IS/ i AM REALLY WORRIED ABOUT HIM. THANKS. JUST CALL ME WASHING FEET!:confused:

Hi WASHING FEET and welcome to PTO and the Siblings Forum. I am sorry to hear about your brother and I know how worried you must be but this is a great place to come to for support. You can do a 'Search' on Butner (top of the page) and see what information is in the North Carolina Forum and check out the Federal Forum too.Just ask if you need any help!

hi there. my brother was recently sent to prison in june of this year for a term of 6-15. i miss him very much also, so i can really relate to how everyone feels here. PTO has been a real comfort to me since i found it, and the information has taught me alot of important things about the prison system i otherwise would of not known. i appreciate all the support i feel here, and i am hoping that i in turn can be of some support to all of you. best wishes to everyone for a happy holiday. take care!

Welcome to the Siblings Forum snuggles! I am glad you found us because, as you said, this is a great place to come to for support and information- helps so much when you know others know exactly what you are going through and dealing with. Happy Holidays to you and looking forward to reading more of your posts.

I appreciate your warm welcome. Happy Holidays to you also.

Welcome, Snuggles & Washing Feet. May everyone have a happy holiday season.

Hi...I've put this off long enough.... my baby brother is currently in County awaiting trial on a dozen felony charges.....I don't understand this at all, I KNOW this guy and it's just not in him to do what he's charged with....and he's 32 now but all I can see when I think of him is this pair of great big brown eyes in a nine year old face....Anyway, hi....now I have my Whateverheis AND my baby brother to fret about.

LeBeau- Welcome to the Siblings Forum! I am sorry to hear about your brother and I know what you mean when you just keep seeing him as a child (all those childhood memories too:( ... ). Sending positive thoughts that his trial will go well -please keep us posted. Try and stay strong.

Lebeau, I am so sorry to hear about your brother. I know what you mean when you say you see his face as an innocent child. It is hard to think of them committing the crimes they are accused of. Let us know what happens, and visit the forum frequently, we are a great comfort to each other.

I am new to PTO. I am so happy I found this site. I just found out my brother could possibly do 8 years. I ve been very depressed since finding out.

Welcome to the PTO Siblings Forum rb916! I am so glad you found us. I am sorry you are depressed right now. We all understand how you must be feeling but this is a great place to come to for support and information so come often as it really does help. Just ask if you need help finding your way around.

RB916, welcome to PTO, you will find much support and information here.

welcome to pto......:) i wish i could say my brother was coming home......maybe after the appeals i can say it but until then i love him anyways :D .... i can tell you just to be there for them in there journey.....they need support of family......

angela

Hi my name is Cassy and I have a brother that is serving time in Missouri Department Of Corrections , My fiance is also doing time in a federal facility . I have adjusted to them both being gone . My brother is doing 120 day shock Treatment and my fiance is doing a 5 year bit and he is due to get out in 2008 ( that is his projected release date) It really helps them alot when they get mail from there loved ones and their families . Even when they call they like to joke about things . You got to keep your chins up for them ladies .


Strong Enough Club #64
Tats Club #
Loving My Man Club #28

Hi Cassy and welcome to the Siblings Forum! :)

Hi I am new here also I think this concept is wondarful. I wish I would have found it sooner. I live in a small town with alot of close minded people who think and treat me as if I am a criminal also.


Shirley:)

Welcome to the PTO Siblings Forum momofoneinga!!! Glad you found us:).

Hi Cassy and welcome to the siblings forum.

Shirley, welcome to you also, not sure if I had done that. There are small minded people everywhere, just remember they have exactly that, small minds. You will find open minds and open hearts here.

I am also new to this place..My mom actually found it and mentioned it to me...I think its a great idea...Ive wanted to find people in similar situations as me and my family..because noone else can relate...My brother was recently sentenced to 26 yrs on Jan 9th....Im still in shock...It juss seems like a nightmare,and Im waiting for someone to wake me up...Yet the reality is that its just what it is...Reality...I broke down in court and after court...and since then Ive held it inside..I wanna be strong for my brother and the family...My outlet has been writing,it seems to help me a little bit..but I think that talking to some of you may help me even more..because I just dont know how to deal with it all quite yet..Like I said,Its been almost 3 weeks since my bro was sentenced...but he was in prison awaiting court for almost a year...me and Jason are so close and although this tragic situation had happened,I wont allow it to come between the bond that we have and have had our whole life...I feel that people judge too much from the past,and due to that fact,it makes him look like hes the bad guy...when theres no doubt in my mind he took the blame for the other person...from what Ive been told,he has only one appeal and Im hoping that we will be able to prove his innocence...he does not deserve to be going through this while the other person is out free to roam and do whatever they please...God knows who the innocent one is,and Im hoping that the truth will set my brother free in due time...Jason is being transferred this week to a closer facility,which is a great thing..because hes been in raleigh the past year and its atleast 6 hours away...so with him being closer,and having a visit a week,Me and my family will beable to see him...I write him as often as I can and alway send a poem out that I have written on my own,with every letter or card I send...It lifts his spirits up....I also try to talk about things that we'll do when he comes home,though noone knows when that might be...But I have to keep his hopes up and let him know that there still is hope and faith to guide us through this trying time...I myself cant even imagine what he is going through right now,and I know that though I am not as strong as he is,I would switch places with him,if even for a day,so he could smile and not have a worry in the world...well I think Ive typed half of a novel right now...so I will write more later on... All of you are in my thoughts and prayers..and I appreciate the site more than youll ever know...Thank You!

MissinMyBroInNC - Welcome to the Siblings Forum -so glad you found us here! I am really sorry to hear about Jason-good though that he will be closer so you can visit him regularly. As you said, writing is a really great outlet-keeping a journal, writing to Jason, coming here and writing and keeping us posted- all of it can be really therapeutic. Hope you will come often and I am glad your Mom found it too-this site can help the whole family.Just ask if you need help finding your way around:).

Thank you,I appreciate the welcome...and I will def come often...Im like I said before,Still in shock..it hasnt quite hit me that my big brother whom is only 2 yrs older than me is startng to serve a sentence for 26 yrs...It juss seems like when he was younger and he would go to county for a few months...It juss doesnt seem like this is all really happening...I dont even know what to think or how to feel...Im hurt and crying inside,yet I show no emotion on the outside to anyone I know...Its amazing what a smile can hide....take care everyone:(

Welcome MissinMyBroInNC, you will find much support here, we understand more than anyone what it means to have a brother or sister in prison. So come back frequently. Blessings, Catherine.

Wanted To Say Hello & Welcome all the New Comers To The Sibling Forums!:D

missinmybroinnc-i know just how you feel.my little brother is doing life without for 25.he has been in for 3 years now and is going for his appeal in march.my brother is not as close to me as yours .im in michigan and he is in kentucky,so we dont get to visit as often as i would like .he has noone down there to visit so the letters help alot.its still a shock to me even after all this time .i hope with time it gets better for you and for me.
i keep alot inside as well .there seems to be alot of people going threw the same thing in here so hopefully it helps to get threw this tough time

G'day everyone. I am a 21 year old female from Australia.
My brother who will be 24 in June is currently on remand where he has been for nearly the past 7 months. He is due to be sentenced on the 9th of March.
This is his first offence and it's kindof a bad one though, he dealt a commercial amount of ecstasy to his so called mate who then went and sold it to undercover cops.
Anyways, enough of the ramblings.

Just thought I'd say hi to you all. So HI!!

Hi Lauren - Welcome to the Siblings Forum- so glad you found us!! It's great to have a member from Australia:).I am sorry to hear about your brother- I will be keeping him in my thoughts and prayers and please let us know what happens at sentencing March 9.

Thanks for the welcome. I've been looking at this section of PTO for a while now, but tend to stay in the Australian section :P.
Thanks for keeping him in your prayers. And no problem, I shall keep you all informed.

Welcome Lauren1984 and I know you will find all the support you need here.:)

Hi Lauren 1984, welcome to PTO and the siblings forum.

Thanks Bkny and Atalie :)

Hello Lauren 1984...Welcome To The sibling forum.

Thanks Snuggles.

HI MY NAME IS BILLY'S ANGELL WELL MY BROTHR IS LOCKED UP HAS BEEN SINCE SINCE I WAS 11 AND THATS WAS ALMOST 15YRS AGO STIL HAS TILL 8 MAYBE 9 YRS IT USE TO NOT BOTHER ME CAUSE I DIDNT REALLY NO HIM AND I WAS A KID BUT NOW MY HUSBAND IS LOCKED UP (BILLY) AND IM TRYING TO BUILD A RELATIONSHIP WITH MY BROTHER CAUSE IT LONG OVER DUE AND HAVING MY HUBBY THERE HAS MADE ME SEE THAT PRISON CAN BE REALLY LONELY IF YOU HAVE NOBODY WELL I JUST WANTED YOU ALL TO KNOW WHO I WAS SO TAKE CARE AND HOPE TO TALK TO YOU ALL SOON :thumbsup:

Welcome to the Siblings Forum billy's angell- glad you found us! Are you able to visit your brother at all or do you write?

can i talk to my brother online?

jason&tina- Welcome to the PTO Siblings Forum! Unfortunately inmates don't have access to the internet so I hope you will come here a lot for support and information. Just ask if you need help finding your way around.

Hello & Welcome To The Sibling Forum jason&tina and billys angell.:)

Welcome Billys Angell and Jason&Tina, this is a great forum. I don't think all the prisons have the on-line thing. I know none of the USPs have it. Some of the med or min security have it, but not all.

Atalie- Do some of the prison have online access? I have not heard that.

Some med or min security federal prisons have e-mail access, they cannot access anything else on-line. I think it is a pilot program to see how it works out, but I know they are using it in some prisons.

Hello there! Am not new just to this forum, usually on canadian forum. My brother is in Millhaven in reception. Has been there since end of April. I don't speak to him only letters. I find it very difficult as I feel so sad for him. I live in the U.K. so I am far away. He has never been in trouble before therefore it was all a shock when we found out he robbed 4 banks. Then I found out he was sleeping on the streets. I can't believe how things have turned out for him, I wish I was there to help in any way I can. He has suffered with depression as well, which was hidden from the family. He is married however his wife wants nothing to do with him, and he has 2 kids. I know there 2 sides to each story but he is my brother and he needs as much love and support he can get. How do I get over feeling sad for him? It shows in my letters I send to him and I think I'm annoying him. Any advice? I am an emotional person, strong but emotional.
Thanks for listening. Don't ask too many questions on the canadian forum as my mom is on it.

aliUK welcome to the siblings forum, glad to have you. How not to feel sad? That is the eternal question we all ask, I think for me it is doing what I can to make his life easier. Sending letters, cards, money when I can, jokes, pictures. I am lucky he is only 3 hours away so I go see him once a month.

Hi ali- glad you found the Siblings Forum:)! Sending really positive letters I am sure is the best way to help him. If you feel your sadness is bothering him try and just stick to day-to-day things that have happened or print off interesting things from the internet:news items, events or anything humorous.
By the way I am Canadian and I also lived in Wales for awhile.What part of Wales are you in?

I am in the amman valley about 20 minutes from swansea. Yeah i do send funny stuff as well, but I think because I can't see him or be with him I feel the need to keep telling him how much I care as I am worried about his depression etc. I want to make sure he feels loved and needed. Am I going over the top. I can't stand the thought of my brother being homeless and that his life has come to that before going to prison. I guess I just want to make it better for him and don't know how.
Thanks for listening......again!
Ali

No you aren't going over the top- you are a loving and supportive sister who cares deeply about your brother. There are a lot of us here who know how you are feeling.

Thanks DLM! I do try to put emotions aside but it's just the way I am. Where in wales did you live? I love it here I'm right near the black mountains and the breacon beacons, and not far from the sea. My favourite place for clearing my head. I work with people who suffer from mental health problems, have dual diagnosis and most have been in prison at some time. Yet I can't deal with my brother's situation. My mom told me there is another letter on it's way. I do wish I could speak to him. I answered your question on the other thread re: phone calss.
Thanks yet again for kind words.....
Alison

I lived in Llandridod Wells - so beautiful! I loved living there but it was years ago!
Ali- Drop by the Siblings Chit-Chat Thread (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?p=2008450#post2008450)when you get a minute - it's a great place to be able to talk about everything that isn't prison related.

Hi :wave: I have posted on PTO but no here yet. I am from California, I am a mom/student/wife, and my older brother was sentenced to 12 yrs. He's been in for 4 yrs already. I have another brother who spent 5 yrs in prison here in California as well.
Just wanted to introduce myself and say hi.

Welcome to the Siblings Forum Hope2BaRn!! :).We also have a Siblings Chit-Chat thread so please drop by when you get a minute!

Hope2BaRn welcome to the siblings forum, you will get a lot of support and understanding here.

Hello, i am new here to. i have a brother in jail. i am hoping he get's out soon as everything seem's to be up in the air on a date for him to come home.

congrats on your brother getting out, i hope you have a great time with him.

Welcome to the Siblings Forum micky- so glad you found us! Keep us posted on your brother please and just ask if you need any help with anything:)!

Micky welcome to the siblings forum, we are happy to have you here, visit often.

I'm not new to PTO but sort of new to this forum. They call me 'sam' in chat- short for Samantha. My brother was recently moved back to New Mexico from Texas, he is now in Santa Fe. My sister has about 5 months left, she is in Grants. I live alone with my daughter who will be 2 next month and take care of my little brother that is 12. Glad to meet you guys:) .

Welcome Sam, it is good to have you here.

Hi

Each time Thomas goes to jail..I lose a little more of my heart and I feel as if we the family are in jail also...in a way we are.
Thomas doesnt think he has a problem with drinking...according to him he has a problem with drinking & driving. *sigh* Until he realizes he has a problem and deals with the issue..nothing I say will make a difference I am afraid. Its like beating my head against a brick wall. I dont want to preach to him....


Dixee

Hi Dixee,
I to am from alabama. it is nice to see someone here from the same place as yourself.
I agree with you when you say you lose a little more of your heart everytime he go's to jail. It is very true, everytime a family member go's to jail they had just as well through you in there right beside them. the only feeling i can think of that even get's close to the feeling of my brother in jail, is a death in the family. It make's me feel i have lost my brother all together. I do write to him and will be going to visit's, but it just isn't the same.

I know what you mean about the drinking problem to. all you can do is be there for him untill he decides he need's help. If you push him to stop it will only drive him deeper into it. I know, i have a father with a drinking problem.

okie- Welcome to the Siblings Forum-glad you found us:). Good news that your sister will be home soon- will she be living with you or nearby anyway?

Hi, I am new here. My little brother is in jail now. He should be out soon depending on how much he can work off of his time. Don't know if I am doing this right, still learning how to use this website.

Hi and welcome to the Siblings Forum Ifab210! That's good news that your brother should be out soon- do you mean in the next few months?

His relese date is set for some time in October of this year but he says that he can work some of his time off. I guess by washing dishes or whatever they do in there. I don't know anything about it. This is the first time I have ever known anyone in jail or prison.

Ifab, welcome to PTO and the siblings forum. I am so happy for you that he will be getting out so soon. It is hard dealing with a sibling in prison/jail and that is why PTO is so important, you will get a lot of support and tons of information here. Good luck to you and I hope you stick around.

Welcome ifab to PTO and the siblings forum. I am so happy your brother will be home so soon. You will find this is a great place for support and information. Good luck to you and your brother on his homecoming, Oct is not far away at all.

Hello Everyone,
I am New to PTO. I need to know if anyone has a loved one at Macon state prison?

Hi Jimbos sis and welcome to the Siblings Forum:)!! If you haven't already, you should check the Georgia State Forum as members there might be able to help with info etc.

Hey Welcome I am also new. Get to go visit my bro next weekend

Hello I'm new to this..I don't even know if I'm really posting this at the right place or not.Anyway my younger brother was just sentanced DECEMBER.23,2005 to 50years in prison he didnt mean to do it but he killed his Girlfriend September.13,2005 after he relized what he had done he tryed to take his own life by slitting both his wrist.Like I say in my profile I was adopted when I was 3hours old I just found my birth mother about 4years ago at this time is when I meet my brother who is now in prison along with the rest of the family.I was adopted and grew up an only child but my birth mother and her husband now which is not my birth father have or i have now 4 brothers counting the one now in prison and one sister.I am pretty upset with my birth mother and the rest of the family cause when my brother needs family the most they have all disowned him they don't write him or anything.So the only real family that is still here for him now and forever is me & my daughter.Since he has been in Vacaville he has already tryed to take his life again two or three times.THANKYOU for taking time out to read my letter (calieyes02)

stayinstrong and calieyes : Welcome to the Siblings Forum - glad you found us!

calieyes-I hope your brother gets the medical help he needs. When you get a minute also check the California State Forum as members there might be able to help with any info you need on Vacaville. I am glad your brother has your support anyway even if the rest of the family won't help-keep us posted on how he's doing please.

Calieyesca, welcome to the siblings forum. I am so sorry about your brother. he is so blessed to have you and your daughter. it is ironic that you be the sister who stands by him when you just found out about him being your brother. Blessings to you and your daughter and your brother.

Calieyesca this is a great place to be. Stay strong and keep being supportive. I pray your brother gets the help he needs. Hang in there!!

Thankyou all for taking time out to read my letter and respond.I'm kinda down and out cause today is my brothers birthday 07/27/2006 and I havent herd from him in almost 3weeks.Does anyone know if there is a lock down or something at Vacaville. THANKYOU again (calieyes02)

Boy I'm ahead of myself I just reread my letter here and relized today isnt the 27th it's only the 21st ''opps my bad sorry'' (calieyes02)

calieyes- Have you checked the Calif. State Forum- they have a Lockdown Status Watch (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=484). So his birthday isn't for another week then-hopefully you'll hear from him soon. Have you sent him a card?

I am sure you will hear from him soon, if he is anything like my brother he doesn't like to write that much.

hi all, my brother has been in for 11 years now.hes in north central

and thanks to atalie for showing me the siblings forum

Welcome to the Siblings Forum meximoniplayer -I'm glad Atalie told you about our forum too. Hope you'll come here often :).

meximoniplayer, Welcome to the forum, I am glad you made it here.

THANKYOU for the info.....yes I checked it and it dosent say anything about Vacaville so I guess it isnt on lock down.Yes I did send him a card but it wont get their in time for his Birthday though.(calieyes02)

Hello. I am new also. I am thankful for forums like these that allow us to share our thoughts, and inquire on different issues.

Creighton- Welcome to the Siblings Forum- so happy that you found us! There is a Chit-Chat Thread at the top of the page where you can talk about other things besides prison so drop by when you get a minute. If you need help with anything just ask:)

Creighton, welcome to the Siblings Forum.

hello everyone im arlene and im kinda new , i still cant get the hang of it but im tryin so does anyone know about a program called "sheriffs parole" please if anyone can explain i would appreciate it ALOT

Hi Arlene and welcome again to the Siblings Forum!
I can't answer your question about Sheriff's Parole but you could ask in the Parole Forum or you could call the County Sheriff and ask exactly what it entails. Please just ask if you need any help finding your way around here- I am only a PM away:).

Hi all,

Just thought I would introduce myself. I am so happy to have found this place (sanctuary:) where I can read about others like myself who are concerned about a loved one. My brother is at Susanville CCC. He will be there for three more years, and then back with us, we pray.

Thanx for taking the time to create this forum for us to share.

Be Blessed!

Welcome to PTO nokwesi:)! Hope you will come here often as it really does help knowing there are others going through the same things you are.

Nokwesi welcome to the Siblings forum, PTO is a great place for support and a place to make friends who know what you are going through.

Hi Im new here, my brother is at SVSP has been in the system for almost 7 years and still has alot to go. This site seems like a good place to get information, help or good advice from people that know. :)

Hi nica and welcome to the Siblings Forum! I see you already found the California State Forum where you'll find lots of information. Hope to read more of your posts so come here often:).

Hi Nica and welcome to the Siblings Forum. You will meet some great people here who know what you are going through.

Hi I have been on pto for 2 weeks and not even a wel-come what am i doing wrong

pams lilsis-Welcome to the Siblings Forum!!! I see that your other posts were made in Texas so that's why I didn't welcome you earlier but I'm so glad you found the Siblings Forum:)!

wow hi to you

:thumbsup: I AM THRILLED THAT I FOUND THIS SITE THIS MORNING I KNOW THIS TIME I WILL BE ABLE TO SHARE THE FEELINGS I HAVE HAD TO BARE ALONE FOR LACK OF UNDERSTANDING FROM OTHERS I CAN SPEAK FROM THE HEART AND KNOW I WILL BE HEARD WITH YOUR HEART WHAT A BREATHE OF FRESH AIR WHERE HAVE YOU GUYS BEEN WHILE THE BRO WAS DOING THE 6 PRIOR TERMS I FEEL LIKE I AM HOME TY ALL
l3itchie1

Welcome to the Siblings Forum l3itchie1-hope you will come here often!

Pam and Itchie welcome to PTO, you will find a lot of support here. I know what it feels like to not get a lot of support from other people, you will get lots of support here.

Hi, welcome everyone! I'm new, too. (at least to posting) My brother is serving an 8 year sentence in Tx. (he's got 6 left)

Welcome to the Siblings Forum utopia:)!

welcome to pto...:D

Hello to Pam and Itchie,
I am so sorry I did not see your posting. Welcome aboard. I also have a little brother in Prison been there 3 mo. Got 381/2 to go. When do we stop caring for these little Brothers!! Never!! Mine is 54 Yes, I was 16 when my mom had him. So he is still the baby of 6 children. I promised my mom I would always be there for him. I keep my promises. She has been dead 12 yrs. I will always honor my mom and Dad even in death. You are in the right place for support from these people here. There my saving Grace.

My names Lindsey, Im from MI and currently have a brother in the prsion system awaiting sentencing for murder. Hes been in there for about 5 months and just like to talk to people who can relate.

Welcome to PTO and to the Siblings Forum Litebrite! Just ask if you need help finding your way around.You will find lots of support here.

Sure this is the wrong place to post but where and how do I make new thread?Thanks so very much

Litebrite- Welcome to the Siblings Forum! You can post your Intro here or if you want to start a new thread just click on the 'New Thread' which is in a blue box near the top left-hand side of the forums.

hi im nicole....my little brother has only been in jail for 1 month, and had NEVER been before, so its a huge shock to all of us....im not hip to all this prison stuff, and i need help...thanks for any advice in advance....

Hi Nicole and welcome to PTO and to the Siblings Forum! You've come to the right place to find help- we are all here for you. A lot of us know what you're going through right now so come and vent or ask questions or just chat in our Chit-Chat thread but come here often as the support will really help.

I am new to this site. My big brother went to Dallas county jail back in June. He was caught with drugs on him. The judge sentenced him to the SAFP program and then probation. My husband and I went to Tx 1 week after he went to jail. He did not know we were coming to see him. It tore me up to see him that way. He has never been in any trouble before. He does not have any family nor friends there to come see him. It really hurts me to know I can't go see him. I moved all his things back here to Florida. Our mom lives here too. I am hoping someone might have some information about the SAFP program in Winnsboro, Tx. Any information would be very helpful. Does anyone know if they have a website? I would like to know what their progam is and if it is any good. I look forward to talking to everyone. Hopefully I can help someone else out with a problem. I like to return favors. Thank you in advance for any information or for just saying hi. :p

Welcome to PTO and to the Siblings Forum chrann!
There's some information in the Texas Forum (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=56) on Winnsboro. The best thing is to do a Search (top of the page) using the terms- SAFP Winnsboro. If you can't find the information you need you can ask in the Forum. Is your brother able to call you?

Welcome to PTO! There is alot of support here from everyone. Feel free to ask questions and everyone is willing to give an answer or a word of encouragement.

I am new. My brother is in "diagnostics" in Baldwin GA. He has been on drugs since he was 15 - now 32. Since being arrested in September, he has been through alot... it took him 2 months, but I truly believe that he is drug free for good! He is so full of God and the Holy Spirit. He led a Bible study in the local jail; everynight in his cell block for 4 months before he shipped out. He has read the Bible complete 2 times and says he feels the best staying "in" it with so much sin and negativity around him. He would like to work as a worship leader and/or in the jail ministry program when he gets out. It was all part of God's plan. However, he has 5 kids and his wife has abandoned the kids and him since his incarceration. The 3 little ones are with my parents and the 2 step kids have gone to live with their bio dad in Maryland. Any words of advise would be great! He was denied parole after less than 2 days in diagnostics - don't know why. I am planning to write the parole board. Might not help, but it can't hurt.

imissmybubba-Welcome to PTO and to the Siblings Forum. Your brother sounds like he is making every effort to turn his life around which is wonderful and I'm so glad his 3 children are being looked after by your parents. Let us know what the parole board says.You sound like such a caring, supportive sister:thumbsup: .

Medicscrazy:
Thanks for the advice on searching the SAFP.
I have tried to search the internet with all kinds of words. I have found some information but not a lot. :mad: It is agravating. My brother is not able to call me. I found out he can only have one phone call a month. I have received a letter from him and he seems to be doing good. I wish I could go see him. We all know it is down hill from now. When he finishes the program he will hopefully come home to finish his probation. I hope he has learned a good lesson from all this and stays away from the drugs.:thumbsup:

Welcome to all the new members. You will find a lot of support here.

Hi everyone! I'm Melody and I'm new to PTO. Wish I had known about this site sooner, I've been missing out on a lot of useful information....I have an older brother who has been incarcerated since 1992 in the state of Georgia. I and my whole family miss him like crazy. I'm in the process of writing a letter to the parole board since he'll be going up for parole reconsideration. I'm praying that this time around he'll make parole so he can come back home. That is all, thanks for listening. :)

Welcome meladramatic, I hope your brother gets his parole. This is a great place to get support and information. Again welcome!
Catherine

Hello,

I just joined this site. My sister is in prison for 3 more weeks. She was transferred yesterday from Live Oaks to CCWF. Are there folks here with relatives in this prison. She is being housed in the gym

I am so worried for her, but at the same time just happy that she has 3 weeks to go

Hello,

I just joined this site. My sister is in prison for 3 more weeks. She was transferred yesterday from Live Oaks to CCWF. Are there folks here with relatives in this prison. She is being housed in the gym

I am so worried for her, but at the same time just happy that she has 3 weeks to go

Welcome to the siblings forum! I am glad that your sister only has 3 wks i am sure that having her family by her side as she went thru this , has helped her alot

Hi everyone! I have been using this site for a few months, but have not yet introduced myself. My younger brother was just sent to prison in Missouri in May. We have always been super close and this has been a really tough time. My brother just turned 21, he has never been in prison before so all of this is new to me and my family. My brother was in diagnostics at ERDCC and got into a fight because some one punched him in the cafeteria over something about a juice drink. He was put in the hole until he was moved to SECC. Two days after he arrived at SECC a couple of guys tried to rob him in hs cell after he went to canteen. He fought back, really kicked some buttt and was again sent to the hole. Now he is in "PC," which is really the hole because there is no PC unit at SECC. So basically he has been in the hole since May, all for standing up for himself. It's so crazy! They say they're doing it for his protection, but I think he proved that he can hold his own. Now he will be in the hole until heis transfererd, who knows how long that will be. The worst part is that he shouldn't even be in maximum security to start with.... but that's a whole other story! This web site has been so helpful, I love it! Anyway, hi everyone! Sorry for the super long post.

Hi dork and welcome to the Siblings Forum! I know you've posted in the past here but I'm glad to see your intro. and learn more about your brother. I wonder if many of our siblings have escaped being in the Hole?? It's really upsetting when it first happens but then if you keep telling yourself that at least they probably are safer it might help you cope with things. Keep us posted on how he's doing please.

Thanks DLM! I will definitely keep everyone posted.

A big welcome to all those who I've not met yet.
Hope you find this site to be helpful. :)

hello, i just joined this month, my brother is at lee state prison in GA. hes got 2 more yrs to go, already done 4 yrs.his name is Clarence:)

Well, I realized I never introduced myself. My brother is waiting to move to his parent institution. We're at the beginning of between 8-12.5 years. I live in NC and he's in Ohio so it is hard to see him, but we're trying for once every 6 weeks. Hello to you all. I'm glad I found this place.

Hi everyone i've been a member here for awhile and i've never had to post in this forum until today. My little brother was arrested yesterday, my mom's hysterical, my sister lives far away, and I'm depressed. Mind you my husband is serving 35+, so this stress on top of stress. I've been doing this for a few years now (the ups and downs of prison life) but how do i help my mom through it all. She is devestated, I mean totally broke down. He's never been in a situation like this before, we don't know how long he will get but he will be getting some time. Thanks for listening.

Welcome to the Siblings Forum Timothys sister and HIZALLWAYZ.
Glad you found us.
HIZALLWAYZ- I am so sorry you had to post here as well. It's so hard on every member of the family going through something like this but it must be even more devastating for your Mom. Come here often and get your strength from all of us- we know what you're going through.

Hi everyone i've been a member here for awhile and i've never had to post in this forum until today. My little brother was arrested yesterday, my mom's hysterical, my sister lives far away, and I'm depressed. Mind you my husband is serving 35+, so this stress on top of stress. I've been doing this for a few years now (the ups and downs of prison life) but how do i help my mom through it all. She is devestated, I mean totally broke down. He's never been in a situation like this before, we don't know how long he will get but he will be getting some time. Thanks for listening.

I'm sorry about your brother. This must be so hard for you on top of "losing" your husband to the system. Every mom is different, so it is hard to suggest what you should do to support her. You can only do so much to help your mom because YOU are also going through this. I made the mistake of worrying too much about my mom and put my whole life on hold when my sis went in. I am still suffering from it and it has been 6 months since this all started for me. All you can really do is keep in touch with mom, make sure she knows you love her, make sure you see her often enough to give some needed hugs, and then pray your heart out(if you do that) the rest of the time.

When I was a month away from giving birth to my second child, my sis and her boyfriend were picked up on state charges. My mother was living with them at the time and was told she couldn't live there anymore because the house would be ceased(?sp). I took my mother in, despite the fact that I have always told her I can't have her live with me(she has always depended on someone else to support her). A month later, I gave birth to my beautiful son, Tyler. I was so concerned about his health because of the tremendous stress I was in durring the last month, but he was healthy. about a week later, my sisters boyfriend made bail and I took him in. About a week after that, my sis made bail and I took her in. Another week after that they were both picked up from my home(thank God I was grocery shopping or my 4 year old would have been devestated!) by the Feds. Yep, the case turned Federal, so there we went again, just as we were starting to settle in. My sister turned 21 right after being picked up by the Feds. I hated that she had to turn 21 in that place. She is being held at the Mansfield Law Enforcement center and will have her sentencing in January. She ended up cooperating with them by turning over anything she had on her boyfriend. She had learned some things about him that she wasn't aware of, durring her time in, that made her reallize that she couldn't protect him. After that she signed some agreement that states she won't get more than the minimum of 15 years.
My whole family fell apart over this. I was in charge of taking care of about a million phone calls, on top of trying to keep my mother in tact, trying to keep up with my family, and trying to adjust to a new baby. Needless to say, I was a wreck! We ended up having to kick my mother out because she lost her job and wouldn't look for a new one and my marriage was going down the toilet with mom around. We gave her enough money to stay at a hotel for 2 months, plus enough for groceries, insulin, etc...and she still kept asking for more. She ended up moving to colorado to stay with a friend of hers there. I know her stress level has gone way down now that she isn't right on top of my sisters belongings(I have them all here at my house). I suppose that benefits everyone except for my baby sis. Mom was the only one who had time to go visit her. I now have to struggle toting 2 kids(2 hour drive), whenever I can, when it won't affect preschool for my son.
I'm sorry for the novel. I haven't had anyone to talk to about this. I have a tendancy to be long winded on top of that hah. If I get out of control, just tell me to shush LOL.

ButterflySis-Welcome to PTO and especially to the Siblings Forum! I am really sorry you have had such a hard time with everything. You sound like such a strong person and your sister and mother are both very lucky that you have done so much for them, as well as having to take care of 2 young children. Keep us posted on how your sister is doing please.

Thanks DLM! I'm so glad I found this place! It is such a relief to be among people who understand a lot of the same things that I am going through. My friends pretty much just keep their mouth shut and listen because they have never been in this boat.

Hello All

I am new to this site as well. I am kind of confused as I try to navigate thru. My brother was just sentenced on 11/16 to 32 yrs and I am still devastated! He's already spent almost 2 yrs in County, but now he's been sent to Western Reception and Diagnostic in St. Joe Missouri. How do you guys get thru this?????

How do we get thru it?
Good question. I have placed it in God hands. I have been there time again for my brother, But i can not carry his bagge with me. I love him, but he chose to break the law, and he is of good mind, altered by drugs BUT we all have to think before we do something. I am still there for him as far as writing and took care of his house. I just do not no how to handle yrs and yrs of this. If we have not been in that situation its hard to tell some one, How to get thru this. My heart aches for you all. Just love them uncoditonal and pray for them. Everyone has to come to turn with their stages of grief with there situation. It is like a death. We all need support, emotionael?? SP! To work our way thru this.

lovemybrother-Welcome to PTO and to the Siblings Forum.
boflipflops has given such good advice. Come here often as it helps being able to talk to others in similar situations- we all need emotional support and just try and take it one day at a time. Ask if you need help with anything- we are all here for you.

LoveMybrother , welcome to the siblings forum. for me, it just became routine. I found knowledge about the prison system was my greatest tool, even when what you find out isn't pleasant it is better then being in the dark. My brother has been in nearly 17 years so I guess I am an old hat at this. LOL It never fails to break your heart, but like Boflipflops said, it was their crime that got them there, and we do need to live our own lives while being as supportive as we can. You will find a lot of information on PTO and you will make friends.

Im New Too... Still Learning As A Go...
Its Hard To Deal With All This Heartach When It Your First Time And Specially When He Is Just A Baby In Your Eyes....
We Well I Know Need All The Support I Can Get From Friends Or Strangers.

My Brother Is Only 21 And Got 3years With 85%
I Miss My Buddy

Im New Too... Still Learning As A Go...
Its Hard To Deal With All This Heartach When It Your First Time And Specially When He Is Just A Baby In Your Eyes....
We Well I Know Need All The Support I Can Get From Friends Or Strangers.

My Brother Is Only 21 And Got 3years With 85%
I Miss My Buddy

i'm three years older than my brother. we're in our 30's. he's still my little brother.

and my best friend.

i will be very lost without him.

Welcome to the Siblings Forum MAGNA- so glad you found us. I am really sorry to hear about your sister and I can only hope, along with you and your family, that the appeal will be successful. Please keep us posted when you get more information and keep coming here for support.Stay strong and positive.

She was retried and acquitted ....thanks for your support !!

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/11/30/AR2007113002184_pf.html

Psalm 35
24 Declare ( insert name) not guilty, O LORD my God, for you give justice.
Don't let my enemies laugh about me in my troubles.
25 Don't let them say, "Look, we got what we wanted!
Now we will eat him alive!"

26 May those who rejoice at my troubles
be humiliated and disgraced.
May those who triumph over me
be covered with shame and dishonor.
27 But give great joy to those who came to my defense.
Let them continually say, "Great is the LORD,
who delights in blessing his servant with peace!"
28 Then I will proclaim your justice,
and I will praise you all day long.

Magna,
All the prayers were answered. What a tragedy for all involved.

i am new here and joined really to find someone for my brother to correspond with--and found myself reading post after post and feeling so full of emotion-not only for the people i was reading about, but also for myself, because i have held so much in for so long and have had to deal with everything alone. my brother's projected release year is 2012. he's been in since 2005. i am all he has and he is my heart. we have always been so close and could be honest with each other and open about everything. it's really hard because he is suicidal-suffers from bipolar--and without his meds. since he tried to commit suicide, doc put him in max. security and they don't give mental illness meds there. got carolina legal assistance working on that situation for me--but it's the everyday things that get to me--that he misses. i got married, he was in prison, my whole first pregnancy and the birth of my son, he was in prison...when my husband was arrested just 2 weeks post to my son being born, he was in prison, now that my husband is still gone (17 months later--waiting trial in florida), he is still in prison. i needed him all those times-his first nephew needs him-he is missing my son's life (not to mention that my son's father has missed everyday, except for the first two weeks--i have a blog about my husband-jennandchrisphillips). it's so hard to deal with and i don't know which is worse-knowing how much time you are gonna miss outta someones' life (my brother's situation), or not knowing what's gonna happen or how long you'll be gone (my husband's situation)?! pray for me and my family...we all need prayer!

Welcome jenn to PTO and to the Siblings Forum. I'm sorry to hear that you have been going through so much- what a hard time you have had:( . I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I hope that your brother gets the meds he needs - please keep us posted and come here often - it's a great place to be able to meet others who know what you're going through:grouphug:

I am new to this forum, but I am so happy I found it!! I am still trying to figure out how to reply to certain message so on the top of my head- Jenn 4 bro- I know it sucks but our family has learned to take pictures of everything!! Photography has high tech ways of adding your incarcerated loved ones into family photos, events etc- I had it done for my wedding he was in it, well at least his face! We need to help them stay in touch with the outside- it may mean magazine subcriptions, out of area newspaper, books galore. Take pictures of his good memories from past, places,activities. And of course pray pray pray for their protection and grace and blessings to go through all we do to show our loved one what they mean to us- smiles

DLM and Nattienat--thanks for the support. I will try to get here more often...I am still learning how to get back to the places where I have posted. Shawn tries not to ask for much. He gets really depressed and sometimes it's hard for him to talk about some things with his baby sister...but I am all he has (besides his three kids-but once his now ex-wife divorced him-she stopped all contact with him/us--said it would be easier for her and the kids...he has a soon-to-be 7 years daughter, a 5 year old son, and a 21 month old daughter). it's really hard on him about his kids-he realizes the choices he made put him there and how everythin has that domino effect-go to jail-calls stop-money stops-letters stop-get divorcce papers-cut out of kids' lives like he never existed! it's tough...especially with everything else going on in my life. Shawn really needs someone to correspond with-be able to talk with-like a pen pal. I made him a 'post' in the pen pal section...hopefully someone will write to him. he just feels like he is alone and that no one cares or is concerned about him, but me...but it's like he says sometimes...i am 'suppose' to because he is my brother. he just wants someone to care because they WANT to. does anyone know of a site where i can sign him up (for free) for a pen pal (maybe even with posting a picture)??? God bless everyone!!! Jenn

Jenn, I can relate to your story. My brother is in Wabash, and even though our mom and his dad are still alive, I am pretty much his support beam. If you pm me with his address, I will start sending him stuff, letters, cards, puzzles, things to help occupy his mind and start thinking of other things except what he has lost.

Hi everyone!

I'm glad to have found this place. My brother's been locked up for just a couple months and it's been hard to deal with it, especially since he has so long to go. :(

Our family has been on a roller coaster, feeling everything from fierce pride to utter shame. Thanks everyone for sharing your stories so I know I am not alone. Reading here has really helped!

Welcome to our little world. It is a place to find strenght to deal with our siblings being gone. We have a montly form also if you would like to post to keep updated about just your anger, hurt, or venting about anything that bothers you. Also i have suggested a Valentine card swap if anyone want to do it. My brother loves getting cards, especially since I am also about his only regular contact. At 71 yrs old it is hard, but we have to go own for them. Someone has to step up to the plate and be there for them.
May God Bless you all. Just hang in there stay postive and keep the faith.

Thanks for the support-it gets hard on us because we are all they have-with my brother's bipolar, it is harder to deal with sometimes-the ups and downs--esp. the downs! in prison letters mean everything to them-esp. from someone they don't expect it from!! thanks princess-i won't tell him about you so he'll be surprised!

Hello everyone, I'm new to the site, but not new to the troubles that seem to come day to day. I have 2 brothers in prison, one will be out in probably 13 months, cuz of over crowding, the other bless his heart is 22 yrs. and has been down almost 4 yrs now. He got sentenced last Sept. to 58 yrs, and 2 life sentences. He's the one that I pay the most attention to. Why, well I myself have been in 3 times and know how it is, but everyone but him will soon see outside. And they're older, and it's not their first time in. Please don't think I don't want them home also, but this is my baby brother, and he did not commit this crime. That's another story. So for him I feel very emotional. I even day dream of him alot. It just makes me so sad, he was only 18 when they picked him up, and now they say if he ever get's to see parole, he'll be in his 40's or 50's. And only if he say's he did what they say. I'm active in his appeal, I drive all over California to take care of this for him, but it is so lengthy and time consuming, I feel like the one that does everything, even for the lawyer. But I know my hard work will pay off. I write him all the time, send pic's, and he dedicates songs to me. :) It brightens my day. He can't call since he's still in reception, and no one in our family can visit him because of stupid things like tickets that aren't paid, and/or having past history with police, because he's max yard. So I know this is extremely hard on him. Thanks for listening, and please pray for us as I Will pray for all of you and your loved ones, that sit and stare of into space of what they might be doing out here. My shoulder is here for you to cry on if you ever need it.

Welcome, justsideways. I'm sorry to hear about all your heartache. I will keep you all in my prayers. (The list keeps getting longer!) I only have one brother and he is younger and it's his first time in so your post resonates with me. This is a good group. I'm glad you're here!

Also, welcome to all the others I've missed - emmaline, jenn4bro-shawn, nattienat, etc. I'm not always good about keeping up.

Welcome to the PTO Siblings Forum justsideways. I'm so glad you're here and good for you for helping with your brother's appeal:thumbsup: . Keep us posted on how you're doing and I will be keeping you and both your brothers in my prayers.

I am also new to this site and i have two brothers still in prison so I am looking forward to exploring this s ite

welcome to the sibling forum.
We all let it hang out here. This is where people understand your pain, fears, and helpness. I wish you all get to a happy place in your life where you are not feeling so hopeless. Writing, and there phone calls me a lot to them. Just stay behind them as God did not forsake us. Neither can we them.For you who want to join the Valentine swap or the sibling swap just go down to the Inmate Mail click own the Siblum Card Form. I have a few people there already. We can band together not let them be forgotton.
Mary W

Hi, my bro is currently serving 60 in county, then heads to another county to deal with a DUI with Driving under Suspension, then he heads to another county for a class 4 felony.

My family really has no clue on what he is looking at. He has not been very forthcoming & everything I have learned has been thru public records. He lied to Dad so that Dad would post his bond after the DUI.

Needless to say, I have a lot of animosity towards my bro at this point. No only does he try to escape his responsibilities, but is ready to take down the rest of the family with his actions.

All this in the last 2 years. 4 years ago, his children were removed from his home and now the state wants to place one of the two children with me - the other is going to be adopted. It truly appears to me that he has made decisions these last 2 years to allow the state to remove his parental rights. His mouth says one thing, but his actions say another.

Hi...

I've been here on PTO for a few months now, but have never posted in the siblings section. I originally found this website because my boyfriend is also locked up. I have 5 older brothers all of which have been/were in prison for as long as i can remember, i never knew them on the outside world. 3 of them have been killed while incarcerated, the other 2 are serving double life sentences for crimes they committed together. I've been disconnected from them for so long it's hard for me to remember them at all, but i've recently been thinking of getting back in touch. The whole prison system is so draining, i'm not sure i can go through it not only with my boyfriend, but with my brothers as well, but i'm going to try... i think... So, that's a bit about me & why i'm here.
Best of luck & love to everyone,

XxOo
Princess Absinthe

A big welcome to everyone who's joined the Siblings Forum recently! Looking forward to reading more of your posts so keep us all posted please:).

hey ya'll.....I just joined...came across pto as I was trying to look up my brother.....This is a great site...I could use other people to talk to about my family and my boyfriend....
My boyfriend is looking to get out of GBCI in May.....I can't wait!!!!

Welcome to the Siblings Forum MossyOak:)!

Welcome to you both :)

I've pretty much jumped into posting so I suppose it's high time I introduce myself.
My brother is on remand right now, denied bail and waiting to fix a date.
I guess I'll probably talk more about that later.
Anyways, I love my brother like my own son, it's only been 3 months but it's been so unbelievably hard......In the first place he was at, he did 67 days in seg which was brutal, especially since he had never been in before.
It seems to be that he's trying to push me away now, maybe because he's afraid I'll leave (he has started talking about how everyone says 'all family eventually stops coming' and other BS) which kind of frustrates me. This consumes my every moment and I think it will always, I would do anything for him, always would have and I believe I always will.
I had a super long post written here, but I think I'll save all that info for later posts, anyways, thanks for being here, I look forward to the support and advice you all have to offer.

Spacecase...welcome! i'm sorry he hasn't written, it seems to be common. I've been told they don't like to write family because they don't want us to worry. I wrote my brother the other day that I still need him and he needs to let us be there for him. I'm hoping he writes. Best wishes!

Thank you PG.

Hello I am new to this thread. I recently found my birth family (I was adopted) and I have been talking to my brother for 3 yrs. I got a chance to finally met him in Feb. 08. It was great! I never thought I could love anyone (other then my husband and kids) as much as I love him. Sometimes I fell like I was better not meeting him, because now I miss him. God, it hurts so much. When I tell my friends how I feel they laugh and tell me I'm crazy. Is it crazy to love your brother so much, and to really miss him to the point that it hurts. He has been locked up since 1996 and will be released in 2011. He was 16 when he went in. Our mom doesn't do anything for him, no money, no calls, no visits, no letters. I am all he has. He is in Illinois and I'm in California, so it is really hard. I do appreciate PTO because I can be with people who truely understand how I feel. Thanks.

No it is NOT crazy.
I feel the same way and I know other people do too.
Especially when their moms can't (or won't) be there for them, we become surrogates I think.
Welcome to the site!

:o Hi everyone... Maybe this is where I should of posted first??? Anyhow, I am new to this. Two days new in fact. My bro was just recentally sent off to HDSP in Nor-Cal. This whole experience has been a true eye opener for my whole family. We have never had any brushes with the law. Its overwhelming. I could go on and on about the raw deal my bro received, but I will save that for another time. I am just glad to actually find people out there that can relate to one's emotions and feelings through this loooong journey!. I look forward to getting to know you all!. I also look forward to the support, and answers that may arrise?
Cheers, Kel :p