When I think about my grandparents, all I can do is smile. I am fortunate to still have all four of my grandparents and to have known three of my great-grandmothers. The memories that I have of them and the experiences we have shared are precious because they have contributed to shaping the woman I am today. Besides myself, I have met so many others who cherish their grandparents. I have seen my own family share the love and bond between each other and it is certainly a joyous sight. Having worked in assisted living and eldercare for a combined seven years, I have seen and heard stories from grandchildren, who express the utmost dedication and devotion to their grandparents. Their ultimate goal is to make sure that their grandparents are being taken care of and being supportive to preserve their dignity.
Grandparents play a tremendous role in most of our lives, which is why a West Virginia housewife in 1970, set a campaign to bestow a day to grandparents. Marian McQuade was the mother of 15 children, had 40 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Her efforts to establish this day extended to businesses, churches and political venues, eventually becoming statewide. In 1973, Governor Jennings Randolph introduced the first Grandparents Day to the state of West Virginia. Furthermore, Randolph also presented the idea to the United States Senate that same year. After assembling a team and reaching out to governors, senators and congressman throughout the U.S., McQuade and Randolph’s hard work paid off. After five years, in 1978, the United States Congress passed legislation declaring National Grandparents Day, which was to take place the first Sunday after Labor Day. Why chose the month of September, you may ask? They chose it appropriately to symbolize the “autumn years of life”.
On September 11th, 2011, we will celebrate Grandparents Day and pay tribute to the loving spirit we
endure from our elders. This year, Freedom Home Healthcare staff members will honor Grandparents by posting stories on our Official Blog, about the memories we hold near and dear to our hearts. We will look back and reflect as we share with you all, the recollections that have touched us throughout our lives. We hope that you find these stories heartwarming and relate to them on an intimate level. This year, reflect on your most precious memories. Whether your grandparents are here or have passed, remember that one moment that has touched your heart.
From Freedom Home Healthcare,
HAPPY GRANDPARENTS DAY!
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