Kim,
When I was diagnosed with RSD, (7 years in), my children were about 3 daughter, 8 son.
I was put on methadone. Wife didn't want to live with a "Drug Addict", She left, and went out on the town imbibing in every street drug there was. I raised my children, and it hurt!
What was my secret?

I didn't ask for anything, I gave them so much love, and kindness, I took a "Positive Parenting seminar". (No punishment, Positive reinforcement). You can google that, it's the big rage now.
But, what I'm saying is, I gave my children so much, of what I desired from them, that they were overflowing with it, and had plenty for me!
I didn't need to ask for anything. We all took care of each other.

Then my second accident came, first wife colluded with second, theft happened, children warned me and saw it, now they've moved away and don't speak to anyone.
I have a grandson, whom I've never met. About a year and half or two old.. guessing.

It's very sad. I was so happy and proud, but, God had other plans.

I'm not so worried. (I do believe the first divorce hurt my son more than it hurt me).
I don't miss my wives at all, I shiver, thinking about being there. But the children, I know, want the love back. Everything they do now, is compensation.

Time. Patience. Faith.

I think that's all we can do. And, Never try to "force" love from them!
That will surely backfire!
They're children, they want to do teenage things! He'n and She'n. Like that.

Kim, they're forever yours. Don't forget it!
It's a stage. NOT, the "way it is".

Pete

asb