Pamela Douglas and her sister, Stephanie, were raised by John and Ann Douglas in a suburb of Chicago. Stephanie married Eric Forrester and moved to Los Angeles, rarely mentioning her sister and telling everyone that her parents were dead. In reality, John had abused Stephanie as a child, which Ann had ignored. When Stephanie's controlling behavior got out hand, she sought therapy with Taylor Hayes, who suggested that Stephanie go to Chicago and confront Ann. With Eric at her side, Stephanie found Pamela taking care of a widowed Ann, who was still in denial. Pamela finally spoke up and confirmed the abuse, admitting she was too scared as a child to help her older sister.