25 tcf.org.uk injured by this death. By putting your pain to work, the good that comes from it can heal. When a great loss hits us, we are numbed, and life seems meaningless for a while. But with the passage of time, we again begin to see that life is still worth living, not just for others but for ourselves, as well. Just as you loved a grandchild, there are others – friends, neighbours, and even strangers – who await your love. For all its cruel twists, this life is still the only one we are given. You have every right to be a survivor and to make the most of each day and each year. I suggest you get started today. This article by Helen Fitzgerald was originally published on the American Hospice Foundation website and has been abbreviated. COMPASSION | FEATURE: GRANDPARENTS AMONG THE FORGOTTEN GRIEVERS Online Help & Support There is helpful information about the grief of grandparents on the TCF website. There are a few books in the TCF library written by and for bereaved grandparents. Mary Hartley, TCF’s volunteer librarian can be contacted at library@tcf.org.uk “As a grandparent, you have to acknowledge that you cannot make this better for your child, but you can grieve alongside them. The death of a child changes a parent, and this is hard for other family members to accept. With love and good communication you can support your son or daughter in ways that are helpful to them and you. Your children are always your children, whatever their age”. “The relationship between a grandparent and a grandchild is very special and unique. When a grandchild dies, the grief associated with the loss is often so intense and painful, it leaves bereaved grandparents feeling hopeless as they experience what many refer to as a double loss. Not only do they mourn for their grandchild, they may also feel a sense of helplessness because they are unable to take away the pain felt by the parents of their grandchild, one of whom is their own child”. Visit tcf.org.uk/grandparents for more information and support.
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