A Grandparent’s Thoughts, in Honour of our Precious Grandson

I had always thought that no experience could be more wondrous and exciting than holding each of my own babies after their births. But in fact, as I watched my daughter hold close her precious, newborn son, Lucien, my heart was filled with double happiness, as I not only celebrated with Niki and David their exquisite joy on the birth of their beloved son, but at the same time rejoiced with my husband, Richard, in proudly and lovingly welcoming this beautiful little grandson into our lives.

During the short time he was with us, four and a half months, Lucien transformed our lives, giving new purpose to everyday routines and bringing us so much love, pleasure, excitement, fun and laughter. The whole world was fresh again as we cuddled him, sang and read to him and generally introduced him to the world, seeing everything anew, as if with the wonderment and fascinated interest of a child. Those months will always stay vivid in our memory, treasured forever.

The loss of a child leaves everyone bereft. The grief and longing are unbearable and the passing of time only slightly eases the pain. Of course, no words can describe the inconsolable anguish of the child’s parents; there can be no greater agony than theirs. And for the grandparents, there is a dual ache: not only the heartbreak of witnessing your own child’s (and their partner’s) terrible suffering, powerless to “make things better” for them; but at the same time you feel a dreadful void in your own heart, where previously there had been pure joy and sunshine.

Precious grandson, Lucien, our beautiful baby boy, thank you for enriching our lives with your happy personality, gorgeous ready smile, animated chatter and infectious laugh - and for bringing us so much love, delight and fulfilment. We treasure all the wonderful memories and hold you close in our hearts every moment of every day.

Your Mum and Dad, Niki and David, are always in our hearts and minds too. Their deep, ever-enduring love for you, and each other, has given them strength - and we trust that our loving care and support will help them in the journey ahead.