1. Parenting & Family

Special Needs Grandchild Inspires a Very Special Blog

Submit an Entry: Looking for the Best Grandparent Blogs

From Janet Harrold

Special Needs Grandchild Inspires a Very Special Blog

Painting For Hailey

Special Needs Grandchild Inspires a Very Special Blog

Hailey and me

The Name and Web Address of My Blog

"Painting for Hailey"
http://janetharrold.blogspot.com/

How Long I've Been Blogging and How Often I Post

I've been blogging for 2 years, and I typically post once a week

Why I Decided to Become a Blogger

I am a Grandmother to beautiful Hailey. Hailey is 4 years old and has Athetoid Cerebral Palsy. I started this blog as a way to keep my family informed about Hailey’s progress, to educate others about her disability and to raise awareness. It has become my mission to help others with disabilities to find resources that they need to help their loved ones as well as let others know that they are not alone and that together we can educate others about how to talk and play with people who are a bit different.

What I've Learned and What Rewards I Have Enjoyed

It has indirectly been therapeutic for me to be able to put my thoughts down. I had no idea how many friendships I would gain by writing this blog. I have met so many other families through blogging that have family members with disabilities. I have also learned that we are not alone in this journey. There are so many other people who are living the same life as we live and are facing the many challenges that we face as a family each and every day.

Advice

I would absolutely encourage other grandparents to connect. You will learn things that you never thought you could, travel roads you've never been on. You will meet people from all over the world But most importantly you will express your love and support for your children and your grandchildren. Oh, and if your grandchildren are as beautiful as mine, it also gives you a great forum to be able to brag about how special they are!

Susan Adcox, Grandparents Guide, says:

I've been enjoying Janet's artwork and the adventures of Hailey for quite some time. I encourage others to visit. "Beautiful" accurately describes both Hailey and her grandmother's love for her.

Thinking of starting a grandparenting blog? Read this first.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.