u/rando--54321

I grew up with squirrels, which is unusual in a city. My brother brought home two baby squirrels when I was 10 years old. He noticed nearby that the mother had been run over by a car and he instinctually brought them home. That started my family's journey of raising squirrels. My mom was the person who fed them and we all took care of them. We played with them just like any other pets. It's was a unique experience and the highlight of my childhood. Over the years, my parents probably had over 20 squirrels that we saved, rehabbed, and raised.

I'm 55 now and love these little guys. I was fortune to move into a building 2 years ago where the squirrels found me on a 4th floor apartment with a balcony. I started feeding them regularly last spring and through the winter. I saw my first case of squirrel pox and kept this poor creature who was blind from tumors alive by feeding him regularly. He eventually got better and chewed off the tumors that enveloped his body. Not only did he survive the winter, but his fur grew back and he comes to see me almost every day. I have so many personalities that come to my door. So much squirrel drama and entertainment. They bring me so much joy.

My brother, who became a wildlife rehabilitator died last May from lung cancer. He only had months to live from the diagnosis and passed away at 56 years old. My mother, who had IPF of the lung died 7 months after him. These little guys have helped me get through some of my toughest times. Feeding them made my feel closer to the memory I have of my mother and brother. They bring so much peace to my life and remind me of how special my family was.

I knew the neighbor was going to get annoyed at some point because I couldn't control them eating on their property and most people are ignorant and afraid of them. However, feeding them did get a bit out of hand. I had anywhere from 2-7 squirrels on any given day and it's a lot of action for a small NYC apartment. A sign went up only in my stairwell stating that no one is allowed to feed the squirrels; I'm devastated. I already had to ignore and hide from 3 of my regulars. They have relied on me for months, are persistent, and don't understand. I feel so bad that I started this and had them depend on me. They are not afraid of me when I'm outside and they keep coming over to me wondering why I'm not giving them food. I don't know what to do and I'm just so sad.