In this moving episode of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren,' host Laura Brazan and guest Stacy Sanchez delve into the complexities and triumphs of kinship caregiving. Stacy, a pastor, author, business owner, and grandmother raising her grandson, shares her poignant story of taking in her grandchild after her daughter's struggles. From navigating the legal and educational systems to addressing the child's trauma, Stacy and her husband faced numerous challenges while striving to balance family life.

Laura and Stacy engage in a heartfelt discussion about the emotional toll of raising grandchildren, the importance of seeking professional help for children with deep wounds, and finding strength in faith during difficult times. They emphasize the power of acknowledging and understanding trauma, encouraging children to express their emotions, and the need for resources to support kinship caregivers.

Through their authentic stories and insights, Laura and Stacy offer a beacon of hope for grandparents unexpectedly thrust into the role of primary caregivers. They remind listeners that they are not alone in their journey and that it is possible to find joy and purpose amidst adversity. Tune in to discover valuable tips, resources, and a compassionate community that understands the unique challenges of grandparents raising grandchildren.

You can learn more about Stacy and her mission at stacysanchez.com and on her Facebook site at Grandparents: Parenting, Again? Perspectives on Parenting Grands .

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When we look at the child welfare system today, it’s clear that the framework we've inherited is completely outdated. We keep trying to "fix" programs, but what if the problem isn't just funding or execution? What if the problem is how we frame the issues in the first place?

Ali Caliendo, founder of the Kinship Policy Lab, reminded us that the questions we ask determine the policies we write, the data we collect, and the outcomes we pursue.

Jill Bryant has spent years researching the deep complexities of counseling and the lived reality of kinship care as a professor and a grandparent raising a grandchild. Her work, focusing on the complete subjective well-being of kinship caregivers. Taking this 10-minute survey gives our advocates the timely, real-world data they need to fight for the funding and structural support your family deserves right now. 

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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