Wow!. That's really a story to post. All I can say, is be glad you didn't marry her.
By the way, CONGRATULATIONS on overcoming your drug problem. May I ask how you were able to overcome your drug problem, when so many others apparently cannot?
Thank you for posting this. Although painful, it adds to the knowledge base, and promotes discussion.
I think you have just helped me understand my neice's situation. Hers is pretty much the same story about losing her job, getting her car repossessed, her house is falling apart and filthy, clothes that are beyond dirty, etc.
Of course her story is that she has fallen on hard times and has a lot of bad luck, and the family (including myself) has spent a lot trying to help her (give her food, pay for utility bills, etc.). Certainly seems like something she is not telling us (more to her story). So your story of your 42 year old former girlfriend's situation was really valuable.
I am sure "losing" someone in this manner is troubling. Almost like a suicide, but they are still alive as some kind of zombie.
Laz, just move on with your life, and (again) be glad you did not marry her.
I have not overcome my drug problem. That's the key to overcoming it; when you realize that you have a daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of your spiritual condition. That's the only way to make it -- one day at a time.
My old monkey is back on me, now that I am trying to experience through these problems, so I have to be especially vigilent right now.