My husband and I are not in typical grandparent roles. Our daughter and her two kids, ages 4 and 5, had lived with us the past 4.5 years. We actually moved across country with them to separate from a very unhealthy environment with their biological father. He hasn't had any type of custody or visitation rights for the past 4 years.
Our daughter moved into her boyfriend's house (20 minutes from us) with her kids 6 months ago. We remain in close contact, as we bring the kids to school and pick them up every day.
Our daughter informed us yesterday that they will be moving 2 hours away due to her boyfriend's job. Apparently he could stay where he is, but would have to take a demotion. He makes more money than most people and still would with a demotion.
My husband and I feel her boyfriend isn't considering anyone but himself with this decision and that our daughter is choosing a relationship with him over our relationship with our grandkids. We are so incredibly devastated that we basically put our own lives on hold for 4.5 years (which we would do all over again!!) to help her and our grandkids out, only to be thrown to the curb. Our grandkids are our world!!
Typically I know people should have their own lives and let their kids go off and live where they want, but we are more than grandparents to these kids. We have been two of their three primary caregivers for most of our grandson and all of our grandaughter's lives.
We have no idea where to begin to deal with and sort out all the emotions we are feeling right now. Any advice, opinions or insight on coping with this heartbreaking situation would be appreciated. Thank you.
Being quizzed by chemist's assistant in Boots.