While 2.7 million grandparents are raising their grandchildren, it is estimated that 1 in 7 grandparents are estranged from their grandchildren. Paula Span wrote about this estrangement in a New York Times article in July 23, 2020. She wrote, “…almost every time I write about grandparents, someone expresses anguish in the comments section about being unable to see or even call a beloved grandchild. Estrangement brings heartache I can’t truly imagine.”
The Alienated Grandparent Anonymous website says it “provides support, information, coping skills, and strategies for a hopeful reunification.” Did you know there is a Facebook page called Grandparent Alienation 101 with 3,395 followers? Divorce and mental illness could be contributing factors to this alienation and estrangement.
So, on this Grandparents Day, count your blessings if you see or get to be with your grandchildren quite often. Others are not as lucky. If you are suffering heartache for your grandchildren, know you aren’t alone. Check out some of the resources written about in this post, as well as talk to others about it. You would be surprised how many grandparents are experiencing similar situations. Above all, don’t lose hope.
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