RE “POLICE repeatedly called to slain man’s home’’: My heart breaks for this mother, not to mention her son, who suffered from mental illness. Our son died two months ago from mental illness and addiction. I know firsthand what Hope Coleman likely has endured in recent years trying to care for, house, and protect her son, Terrence.

While my son was never violent toward us, and was gentle when in the throes of psychosis, he seemed a danger to himself, and we were forced to call the police.

We thank God that the police and the Fire Department in Norwell were nothing but compassionate, professional, and prepared.

Let’s hope some momentum can build to protect those with mental illness before the need for police ever arises.

Mary McSweeney

Norwell