International Grandparents Day

Sep 7, 2018 | 2:16 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Parent Support Services is marking the second Sunday in September as a day to celebrate all grandparents, and shine a spotlight on grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. 

On September 9th, BC residents are being asked to step outside and walk in honour of International Grandparents Day. The day is to celebrate grandparents who are raising more than 13 thousand grandchildren across the province themselves, according to Statistics Canada. At this point in the grandparent’s life, some may have thoughts of retirement or travel but have had to abandon those plans when jumping into parenting for the second time. Although plans may change, it’s not always negative emotions they are feeling. Grandparent and now co-parent, Ian Wilson says he feels a deep sense of pride knowing that his grandchild is in a better situation than he was before and now has a chance at a better life. 

Members of “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren” in Prince George say their group is small but there are many people that just choose not to share their story. Meetings with GRG allow these second-time parents to talk and compare their experience with others as well as acknowledge the support around them.

This is the fourth year that PSS has marked International Grandparents Day with events across the Province. In Prince George, the day will be recognized at Paddlewheel Park from 11 until 1 pm on Sunday with a walk and other activities.