Gail experienced psychosomatic asthma when she became anxious, which was a response to stress and anxiety in her life.
Gail's mother was overbearing and had high expectations, which created tension, especially since Gail was more of a free spirit compared to her sister Elaine, who followed their mother's expectations.
They listened to music like Neil Young and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, went to New York City at 14, and explored Greenwich Village, meeting boys and feeling adventurous.
Gail struggled with chronic depression and had a suicide attempt in the late 1970s, which led to a hospitalization. However, by the summer of 1980, she was doing better and started dating again.
Bob's behavior, such as trying to drown Gail's cat out of jealousy and his controlling nature, raised alarm bells for Gail's family, who felt he was a danger to her.
Gail's wedding day was tense, with arguments in the morning and a rushed preparation. She wore a modified mother-in-law's dress and a flower crown that didn't meet her expectations. Despite the stress, the wedding party at Terrace in the Sky was described as fun and happy.
After marriage, Gail became more subdued and quiet, feeling neglected as Bob worked long hours. She felt lonely and ignored, leading to affairs and a desire to leave him.
The turning point was when Bob strangled Gail during an argument, leading to a police report. Despite this, Gail tried to fix the marriage through therapy, but her family feared for her safety.
Gail planned to leave Bob and had sublet an apartment for herself. She was preparing to discuss the divorce with him over dinner, but her family feared the confrontation could turn violent.
Relisten to Season 1 of The Girlfriends.
We head to New York City to learn about Gail. In conversation with her loved ones, Carole hears about Gail’s love stories, curly hair, teenage dreams and the last time her friends saw her.
If you are affected by any of our topics please reach out to NO MORE at https://nomore.org/girlfriends), a domestic violence charity we’ve partnered with.
The Girlfriends is produced by Novel for iHeartRadio.
For more from Novel visit novel.audio) Correction: Alayne Katz has brought to our attention that on the morning of Gail and Bob's wedding day (August 29th, 1982) Bob did not stay at their apartment as reported in the podcast, instead he stayed at his parents house in New Jersey. In the morning Gail traveled from her parents house, in Long Island, to their Manhattan apartment where she met with Ouidad to get her hair done. Ouidad did not come out to Long Island as reported. Listen to our soundtrack on Spotify here) or buy the album from Bandcamp). All proceeds go to our charity partner NoMore. Follow Carole on social media here:
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