After trying my best over three years to look after my grand-daughter whilst suffering from chronic depression and anxiety (which my daughter knew about), I suggested that my daughter find a nice playgroup so that she could learn to socialise, as it was evident she didn't get on with other children. To be honest I was really too unwell to keep being a childminder and like many found it exhausting, although obviously got very close to my grand-daughter and she to me. My daughter's attitude was to ask me for the 'key' back and to stop me seeing her! There were other issues but I have to say I am horrified what a heartless uncaring person my own daughter has turned out to be. She has now caused so much trouble in the family that I don't see any of my three children or four grand-children! I am, of course, heartbroken, and my depression persists but I do not have the emotional resources to deal with the harsh attitudes towards me that my children have developed.
I feel like I have 'failed' as a parent, despite bringing up my children myself and not seeking work until the youngest had reached secondary school. Not sure what I did wrong but I now wonder why I ever had children at all.
Grand-parents have no rights to their grandchildren and despite many attempts at trying to see my grand-daughter by offering ballet lessons and so on I have had to stop having my feelings hurt and have for the last three years not seen my grand children at all!
July 23 Limerick (continuation of July 21)