Testimonials.

• “A very big "Thank you" to Jane Jackson and her husband for all that they do for Bristol Grandparents Support Group, not only for their kindness and hospitality but also for the part they are playing in changing attitudes to parenting and grand parenting - remarkable progress during last five years, thanks a million ! “

• “Thank you so much for the support you give. Without your group, I think that many grandparents would go under.”

• “Until yesterday I had never spoken to anyone who had suffered similar agonising grief. Friends can be very kind but there is a limit to how much they can take of your grief before their eyes glaze over and the jolly invites begin to dwindle.Yesterday I met and heard people talk about their experiences and I was stunned by the fact that we all have the same feelings and the same grief no matter what event actually triggered off the alienation. I am not the only person who lives in a state of total bafflement, grief and feeling of helplessness. I am so glad that I was able to make contact with you after your appearance on 'Inside Out West' and that I came to the meeting yesterday. The support group allowed me to feel that I am not alone and that there are people who are working hard to increase public awareness of the damage such emotional cruelty does to so many people, not least the very grandchildren for whom we all grieve.Thank you for your devotion to this group. I will see you at the next meeting.”

• “I had been left with a huge hole in my heart not being able to see my grandchildren, as I love them so much. Before I met Bristol Grandparents Support Group , on the surface I was functioning but inside, my emotions were raw. I felt ripped apart it didn’t leave me, I woke weeping everyday.Meeting Jane, prevented my feelings getting any darker, listening to others in the same  situation. What was important was that the environment created by Jane as Marc, felt safe as the womb. Warm, friendly, knowing exactly what it feels like at every stage, caring, sensitive and managed in a professional way without formality. The group gives me a feeling of acceptance, because all the grandparents in this situation suffer the feeling of shame and failure as well as the pain, longing and regret. Everyone there knows all these feelings. Listening to others stories in a completely open, safe environment means that you learn to cope. I have heard some situations that are worse than mine which gives a sense of balance and hearing positive news when some grandparents are reunited gives me real hope, which in itself is healing.After a meeting, I feel I can cope a bit better until the next meeting. When the next meeting is due, I really feel I am beginning to wear thin and feel more desperation and hopelessness and am screaming inside for help. I can’t see any service in the NHS that can compare with the well-being that is created by the group. Jane and Marc offer their own home, to anyone, and it costs nothing.”Although the group consists of people from all walks of life, the atmosphere is always the same all through the seasons. Relaxed, calm, warm, healing, uplifting, lt's like coming home really. The feeling of support is really strong and powerful. It is empowering. Thank you.”

• " I have not been able to see my grandchildren for several years and at the age of 70, I feel that time is running out for me. To be able to share my most innermost thoughts with others who feel the same helps me get through the day. If I am need of encouragement I will ring Jane, I usually put the phone down with a smile on my face."

• " I am just writing to say thank you for all your support over recent months, I am pleased to tell you that yesterday, for the first time in many years I was reunited with my grandson. I can not express how I feel, I am just busting with happiness. If it hadn't been for you and your group I don't think I would be here today. Thank you so very much."

• " Coming to your group is my life-line."

• " BGSG has become so vital. The grief you feel when you are shut out of your grandchildren lives is unbearable. When there are no more visits, no more telephone calls,no laughter, all you have are photos and memories, you have to find support. Some where to go and grieve, to plan, to hear stories and share,to find hope. This sort of support can not be found in family or friends, it needs to be people who know completely. BGSG allows a flame of hope to quietly burn for all our lost grandchildren, in the messages we put on the Christmas Tree,or in the blogs we write, in simply sitting together. Just knowing you are not alone." 

• "The friends I have met in the group will be life long friends and their support is immeasurable."

• When I found this group - I was borderline on going under  - hadn't seen the grandkids for two years and it was now beginning to take it's toll beyond anything before.  I was considering therapy.
  
  
  Then as if by magic - I saw Jane's group.
  
  
  I emailed - then I rang - and I had renewed hope - it was Jane's words "They won't forget you - kids remember everything£
  
  
  That's what got me through. 
  
  
  The next day I woke up more positive than I had done in a very very long time. That first step put me on the right road and I haven't looked back.
  
  
  A huge heartfelt thank you Jane and Marc.
  
  
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www.bristolgrandparentssupportgroup.co.uk