We can’t choose what challenges life gives us. But we can choose how we respond. We can choose to dance in the rain instead of complaining we got wet. For Cecilia, raising her granddaughter was the challenge that changed everything.
“Life has certainly become wonderful. Really wonderful. Every day is an adventure, and I just love it.”
With her warm smile and sparkling eyes, Cecilia is always ready for a meaningful conversation. Her long silver hair and wise face hint at her age, but her energy and enthusiasm are unmistakably youthful.
Yet, just two years ago, she felt like a completely different person. She saw herself as frail, inactive and without energy. Just what you might expect from a 70-year-old.
One of Cecilia’s daughters has struggled with addiction for most of her life. She often has difficulty looking after herself, let alone taking on the responsibility of caring for a child.
When Cecilia learned her daughter was pregnant, she didn’t know what to do. She didn’t think she had the strength or energy to care for a baby.
“Initially, when we found out that [my daughter] was pregnant, I decided that I wouldn’t be able to [be a carer], primarily because of my age, and so I hesitated.”
While searching for an alternative, Cecilia took her granddaughter into her home. Soon, she realised how much purpose this tiny child brought into her life. When she found out her granddaughter was to be placed with strangers, she made a life-changing decision.
“When I found out she was going into care…with strangers that didn’t know her and didn’t know her background…I straight away put up my hand and said ‘yes, I’ll take her’…I feel it’s very important that the parent…has access to [the child in care], but in a very safe and secure way. And I knew that I would be able to facilitate that very well.”
From that moment, everything changed.
“From the moment that [my granddaughter] came into my care, my body strengthened. I’m keeping up with young mums at play groups and I have energy for a toddler. So, with all of this I’m very, very grateful.”
Her interactions with the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) and CASPA were hesitant at first. She was worried that, like she had herself, DCJ and CASPA would judge her for her age. But once they saw the deep bond that the two share, combined with the network of support surrounding them, everyone agreed. The best place for Cecilia’s granddaughter was with her.
“One thing that has really assisted me along the way is a support system. I have a marvellous support system…Most of us have an extended family, sometimes without realising it. Our friends, storekeepers, just different people we’ve come across that we’ve known for years… I see CASPA, now… as an extension of my family as well. They support me and help me and I’m very glad for that.”
The journey hasn’t been without challenges. Cecilia initially resisted attending parenting classes, feeling confident in her experience raising seven children. But in the end, she embraced the opportunity to learn.
“[Something] that really helped me, and I must admit too I did resist them, were the parenting classes. I thought, well, I parented up to seven children…I know what’s what. But I can tell you times have changed. My children were born in the 70s and 80s. Now she’s 2023. Each parenting module has been different. And I’m very grateful [for] all the resources CASPA has provided.”
Her biggest lesson?
“When you don’t know what to do with something or about something, you just show love… [this mindset has meant] I’ve changed a lot in my mental attitude. Just to everything in my life, I think.”
Watching Cecilia and her granddaughter together is beautiful. It is obvious their bond is full of love and trust. Her granddaughter’s sense of safety and belonging is clear in the confidence that she brims with.
A village of support, a willingness to learn and a house full of love have created a safe, nurturing home where a child can thrive. And for Cecilia, it brought a renewed sense of purpose and joy.
Don’t let age, ability or doubt hold you back. If you have the heart to be there for a child, we are here to support you. Join the CASPA village and become a carer.