A double grief.
When a grandchild dies, you grieve twice: for the precious grandchild you loved, and for your own child, who is living with the worst pain there is. You are welcome here.
Grieving for two
As a parent, you’ve spent a lifetime protecting your child. Now you watch them suffer something you cannot fix, while your own heart is breaking for the grandchild you held, spoiled, prayed for and dreamed about. Many grandparents tell us they feel they have to hide their own grief to stay strong for their children.
Your grief is real, and it deserves a place too. You don’t have to choose between caring for your child and mourning your grandchild.
What you might be carrying
Helplessness
You can’t take your child’s pain away, and that can feel unbearable.
The wrong order of things
Grandparents expect to go first. Outliving a grandchild can feel deeply unfair.
New roles
Some grandparents step in to help the family, or even raise grandchildren left behind. That love and that load are both real.
Come to a meeting
Grandparents are always welcome at our meetings, whether you come on your own or with your son or daughter. Most of the people in our circle are parents, and they understand. You can share, or simply listen.
In person: first Thursday of every month, 6:30 to 8:45 pm, Brandon Regional Library.
Online by Zoom: third Thursday, 7:00 to 8:30 pm.
Online, any time
National’s private Facebook groups for grandparents, moderated by bereaved grandparents:
If you are in crisis or thinking about ending your life, please call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, any time of day or night. You can also call 911.
Your grandchild’s love lives on in you.