Friendship: How to Support Your Teen Through a Tough Time Without Sacrificing Their Future

Atlanta, Georgia – A concerned parent sought advice on how to balance their daughter’s dedication to a sick friend with her slipping grades in school.

The parent’s 14-year-old daughter, Molly, has been supporting her friend Tim, who is battling cancer, by spending time with him during his treatments. While the parent is proud of Molly’s compassion, they are worried about her failing grades in French and algebra due to spending too much time with Tim.

Despite attempts to discuss the importance of maintaining her grades, Molly dismisses their concerns. The parent is torn between supporting Molly’s friendship with Tim and ensuring she prioritizes her education.

To address the situation, the parent plans to speak to the school about options if Molly fails her classes and have a conversation with Tim’s mom to find a balance. They also intend to involve Molly in a collaborative discussion about finding a solution that supports both her friend and her academic responsibilities.

Emphasizing the importance of striking a balance between helping a friend and taking care of oneself, the parent hopes to guide Molly through decision-making processes that align with her values and needs. This situation serves as a learning opportunity for Molly to navigate similar challenges in adulthood.

Overall, the parent seeks to find a solution that benefits both Molly and Tim, allowing for support while also prioritizing academic success for the daughter.