Gypsy Rose is free, but what is Munchausen Syndrome By Proxy?

Springfield, Missouri – Gypsy Rose Blanchard, the woman accused of helping to plot the murder of her mother, Dee Dee Blanchard, has been released from prison after serving 8 out of a 10 year sentence.

Just prior to her December 2023 release, Lifetime launched a six-hour special about the story, The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, detailing how Gypsy Rose was a victim of Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy at the hands of her mother. The docu-series and Blanchard’s subsequent release from prison has generated renewed interest in the story that is both fascinating and tragic.

Almost as soon as Gypsy Rose was born, Dee Dee began to insist her daughter was suffering from medical conditions, despite doctors disagreeing with her. Over years, Dee Dee convinced doctors as well as neighbors and non-profit organizations that Gypsy Rose was disabled and chronically ill. From sleep apnea, muscular dystrophy, seizures and hearing issues to the inability to walk and the need for a feeding tube, Dee Dee exploited sympathy for her daughter from the community to get attention and donations from individuals and organizations, including a new home.

Gypsy Rose Blanchard as a child. Wikipedia.

After years of abuse and wanting to be free from the lies of her mother, Gypsy Rose planned the murder of Dee Dee with a man she met online. It was only after her mother was found and Gypsy Rose and her boyfriend were located did the community and the world learn that Gypsy Rose was a victim of Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy.

But what is Munchausen Syndrome By Proxy?

“According to Sandstone Care, Munchausen syndrome, by proxy, is a mental illness and a form of child abuse.

The caretaker of a child, commonly the mother, makes up fake symptoms or causes symptoms so that their child appears sick.

The caretaker fakes or produces these symptoms to gain attention and have their children or dependents assume the “sick role.”

Munchausen by proxy is a serious condition, and it can be very hard to recognize in parents. Often, they seem very caring, loving, and involved in their children’s lives like any other parent. However, they intend to control and fabricate the situation for their sake.

Because it is hard to recognize, Munchausen, by proxy, often goes undiagnosed but can be extremely harmful and dangerous for the child.”

For a complete guide to this mental illness, including what to do if you suspect a child is a victim of Munchausen Syndrome By Proxy, click here.