Are you a grandparent who has stepped up to raise your grandchildren following profound family loss, feeling the weight of multi-layered grief while striving to create a nurturing, stable home? Do you find yourself struggling to support children’s emotional needs while managing your own sorrow and uncertainty? For many grandfamilies, the journey through grief is complex and often misunderstood, leaving caregivers searching for effective, faith-based tools to bring healing and hope.
I’m Laura Brazan, and I know firsthand how unexpected loss can change everything. In this episode of “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity,” I’m joined by Dr. Jerry Woodbridge—a compassionate grief advocate, educator, and widow—who shares both her powerful personal story and practical, expert guidance on children’s grief. Together, we explore how grief manifests differently in children, subtle warning signs caregivers shouldn’t ignore, and concrete strategies like journaling, creative expression, and building supportive communities rooted in faith.
Don't miss watching the trailers for Jerry's new book, "Joy Overcame Sorrow", on her
The 750% gap is real, but it doesnt have to be your family's destiny. We are gamifying the 'motherboard' to bring our partners and grandchildren back into the center of the mission!
Join us in The Grand Challenge!
What's your #1 survival tool? Listener Tina Patrick Pastorelli commented that after 6 years of raising her children that are not even biologically hers, "Just be the family they never had". It's a simple reminder that we don't need a perfect biological connection to create a perfect sense of belonging for these kids we're raising #kinshipcare #kinshipcaregivers #grandparentsraisinggrandchildren
In this special pre-roll segment, I’m sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.
We want to hear from you. If Laurel’s story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today.
Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.
Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.
We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.
Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg
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