Article by Kotie Geldenhuys
Photos/images courtesy of Unsplash and Freepik
James, exhausted and overwhelmed by his newborn son’s relentless cries, reached breaking point. Left alone for a mere hour, frustration clouded his judgment, and in a fleeting moment of desperation, he violently shook the little one to stop the cries. The cries stopped – but were replaced by a terrifying, everlasting silence. Although James did not intend to harm his son, his actions are still considered a form of child abuse. As panic set in, James realised the irreversible consequence of his actions. When his wife returned home, sirens filled the night, but no sound could ever undo what had been done.
Most parents know the feeling of helplessness when their baby cries inconsolably. When the frustration becomes overwhelming, it is important to reach out, whether to a friend, relative or neighbour, for support or a much-needed break.
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[This is only an extract of an article that is published in Servamus: May 2025. This article is available for purchase.]