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Grandparenting

My son and 3 grandchildren have moved to Japan

(29 Posts)
Hales64 Mon 29-Jun-20 16:29:44

I am struggling to cope with the fact that, just before Christmas, my son and his 3 children moved to Japan. His wife had gone ahead in August. These particular grandchildren are the lights of my life as I had a lot of input in their lives due to their parents not coping very well. I video call them twice a week but I'm simply heartbroken without them. My life is empty now, even though I'm married, there is no joy in me anymore. I put on an act for everyone. I'm due to start over the telephone counselling for depression. I just don't know what to do now.

varian Sat 04-Jul-20 20:18:24

I know why many have left this country in recent years. The brexit brain drain has parted many of us grandparents from our children and grandchildren.

I do not assume that is the reason for the OP's family to have left the country but it is the reason that so many of our families have gone in recent years.

I know only too well how much they are missed.

Whitewavemark2 Sat 04-Jul-20 20:28:09

hales my heart goes out to you. I have a friend whose son did just that and who lives outside of Tokyo. My friend spent quite a few holidays in Japan. She has learned to manage her emotions but it wasn’t easy.

I’m sure your counsellor can help you do the same.

varian Sat 04-Jul-20 20:30:25

I would advise the OP to ask her son why they moved,to Japan, if she hasn't already done so. It is not a move they would have made lightly. It is possible that he was offered the chance of a better life for his family there. It may not be a permanent move but is likely to be an interesting experience for them all.

We are so much luckier than previous generations of grandparents who had no internet, only occasional expensive phone calls and letters which took a long time to arrive. Perhaps it would help to have more frequent video calls and messages.