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Apple News In Conversation

Rebroadcast: Her family had always kept one relative a secret. She set out to uncover the truth.

Aug 29, 2024
Jennifer Senior, an author who unearthed her family's hidden history, shares a poignant narrative about her aunt Adele, who was institutionalized at birth. Discover how a shocking family secret was revealed when Jennifer was just 12. She discusses the heartbreaking realities of institutionalization at Willowbrook State and reflects on the emotional reunion with Adele, emphasizing the importance of supportive environments. The podcast also explores the role of genetic testing in connecting family ties and the cultural significance of remembering those lost to history.
28:14

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Jennifer Senior's discovery of her aunt Adele's institutionalization highlights the tragic consequences of societal attitudes towards disabilities in the mid-20th century.
  • The contrast between Adele’s experiences in an institution and a supportive group home emphasizes the importance of nurturing environments for individuals with disabilities.

Deep dives

Aunt Adele's Early Life and Institutionalization

Jennifer Sr. discovered her aunt Adele's tragic early life when she learned that Adele was born with an intellectual disability and was institutionalized shortly after her second birthday. This decision was influenced by the medical beliefs of the time, which deemed Adele's condition as incurable, leading her family to believe that sending her to an institution would be in her best interest. Jennifer's reflection on her mother’s memories reveals the conflicting emotions within the family, as her mother initially viewed Adele as an adored baby sister, while their grandparents faced immense pressure and misinformation from doctors, ultimately believing they were acting out of love by institutionalizing her. This heartbreaking context sets the stage for understanding the broader systemic issues surrounding the care of individuals with disabilities during the mid-20th century in America.

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