For
Bereaved Grandparents: Heavy
Hearts
When the tragic loss of a baby occurs, attention for care and support is often given to parents, as where grieving grandparents may often be forgotten about. Their hearts are heavy and sad not only for the loss of their precious grandbaby, but also for the pain their children are enduring from such tragedy. Bereaved grandparents deserve to have a network for support during such trying times. Many times they take on the responsibility of caring for their adult children's needs for comfort as they grieve; yet, grandparents are in need of similar comfort. I applaud all grandparents that have given their whole hearts to their children that have experienced a loss. My only hope is that more support becomes readily available to such devoted people. They deserve a voice!
My mom has been extremely supportive for me, since I lost my son, Charles. I can't ever thank her enough for all she has done and has continued to do in her grandbaby's memory and honor. I know it has been a long and difficult road for her...for both of us. I'll always be here for her even if she just needs a warm hug. We will always grieve the loss of our Charles. We will forever miss him.
Charles' Grandma wrote the following letter to him. It was our first Christmas without Charles:
12-24-1999
To my dear Charles Christopher,
a beloved & wonderful Grandson.
You are in my thoughts & prayers.
I know you are safe and loved in the arms of the lord,
While your Mom & I celebrate Christmas.
You will always be a part of me; after all, you have my chin!
I'll always love you!
Love, Grandma
If you know of an organization that offers support to grieving grandparents, we would like to know. Please contact KotaPress with information to such organizations. The following are some links to sites that offer support for bereaved grandparents:
Yahoo Groups
for Grieving Grandparents:
An online email support
group for grandparents that
grieve the loss of a grandchild.
Griefworks
BC~Support in British Columbia
Resourceful Articles for
Grieving Grandparents
AGAST
Alliance of Grandparents,
A Support in Tragedy
An all volunteer organization
dedicated to helping grandparents
through the trauma, stress
and grief after the loss
of a grandchild. Offers
many resources to help grandparents.
.
About
the Author
Katie is the co-editor of
the KotaPress Loss Journal,
active member of Neo Fight,
co-founder of IN MISS Foundation
Chapter, and bereaved mommy
to Charles Christopher.
