I have a very good friend who has a child with mild cerebral palsy, whom i have known for quite a few years and has genuinly got a heart of gold. The other day though, I was chatting to her and in the conversation she referred to a family member as being "mentally retarded". I was really taken aback and was really offended by her use of this term. Both of our children have got significant mental health issues and I felt that her derogatory use of this phrase reflected her general attitude towards my children and others like them. I would never use words like that and it has really upset me. I didn't say anything at the time as I was a bit shocked but now I don't know what to do as i want to say something but don't want to make it a massive issue which is going to upset our friendship, but then if this is her attitude, should we be friends?
Am I overreacting and should i just let it go?
Paula.
