1. Parenting & Family

Grandparents Raising a Great-Granddaughter Rely on Faith, Support From Others

Share Your Story: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

From Phyllis Regan

What Happened

My husband and I received permanent custody of our great-granddaughter, who is now 3 1/2, one year ago. Both her parents, who were never married and not a couple, now are drug addicts. We have opened our home to her and receive joy and love each day in this new chapter of our lives. Does anyone out there have similar lives?

Thanks for your support.

Phyllis

How I Coped

We have a lot of friends and relatives who love her as much as we do and we are grateful for their support. Every day is a new experience and a new chapter in our lives.

We have faith and believe we are doing the right thing by having her with us. Some days are challenging, but we pray a lot and know things will be easier as time goes on.

Lessons Learned

I learned the court system. It was difficult to first have temporary custody for 90 days, so when we back to court we asked for permanent custody and were awarded it.

Hardest Part

Keeping up with her energy, enthusiasm and day-to-day activities like a younger person would do. We try hard to give her the best without her parents being part of her life right now.

Most Rewarding Part

Listening to her say, "I love you, Nana" and getting the hugs, but most important is waking up in the morning, seeing her sweet little face and watching the sun rise with her. We are blessed.

Susan Adcox, Grandparents Guide, says:

I am so grateful that there are great-grandparents out there who are willing to take on such enormous responsibilities at a time when they have earned some rest and relaxation. There is only one force powerful enough to make this a workable situation, and that force is love.

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