Raised By My Grandmother While My Parents Chased Their Dreams—Now, After Decades Without Contact, They’re Demanding I Pay Them Child Support

Author Mitsuko NagasakiReading 3 minViews 2

I was raised by my grandmother, but now my parents have decided that I should pay them maintenance.

My family and I live in different towns. I havent seen them in over twenty years. They’re both artists and sing in a choirmost of their life is spent travelling from place to place. When I was five years old, I went to live with my grandmother. She thought life with a child might suit her, so she moved in with some of her relatives to make things easier.

At first, Mum and Dad visited once or twice a year, sometimes three, but as time went on their visits became less and less frequent. Eventually, I stopped thinking of them altogether. We lost contact completely. When I was at university studying dentistry, I got married in my third year.

Now, my husband and I run our own dental practice and do very well for ourselves. About a year ago, my parents turned up out of the blue. They started calling the practice because they didnt even have my phone number. Most of our conversations revolved around them complaining about how hard things had become for them.

I listened patiently to their grievances and reminded them that they made their choice when they decided to leave me to be brought up by my grandmother. Occasionally, theyd send Grandma a few pounds here and there, but for the most part, we lived off her pension. She reminded me of this more than once, and I understoodevery penny had to be stretched, we had to scrimp and save for everything.

At school, I did my best so I could earn a bit of money, working night shifts at the hospital to cover living costs and buy clothes. These days, I feel like I have my life, and they have theirseveryone should get on as best they can.

When Mum and Dad realised I wasnt planning to help them, they threatened to take me to court for maintenance. That finally pushed me away. I used to wonder if I ought to help them and sometimes doubted myself, but now, I want nothing more to do with them. I cant help but ask myself, am I right to feel this wayor should I help my parents after all?

Dandelion Jam Winter’s blanket of snow finally melted, leaving behind a softness that made spring’s arrival all the more welcome. The town was waking up—you could tell by the bustle at the market and the cheerful flutter of birds outside windows. Taissia, a long-time resident of her old block of flats, watched from the third floor, eager for sunshiny days, the riot of colour, and the freedom from heavy coats. Spring suited Taissia. She lived with her granddaughter, Vera, ever since Vera’s parents left for a doctor’s contract in Africa: “We trust you with our little Vera. She’s happier with you, Mum.” Taissia had laughed, promising to make the most of retirement with her sprightly granddaughter. The day unfolded with its familiar rhythm: breakfast, school, chores. Outside, her neighbours had already claimed the bench beneath the budding trees—Mrs Simmons, whose real age was as mysterious as her sharp wit, and Valentine, the loud, joyous bookworm, always in friendly opposition to Simmons’s grumbling. The bench was never empty once the sun came out, and these two were its loyal sentinels, keeping an eye on everyone and everything. Taissia sometimes joined in, gossiping about what she’d read, sharing news from TV, enduring Simmons’s health complaints. But today she popped to the shops, promising Vera a sweet treat for good marks. After school, Vera practised her dance moves, which made Taissia beam with pride. In the evening, she waited for Vera outside, joined by their neighbour, Mr George Elliot from downstairs, who always greeted the spring with a poet’s soul, likening the golden dandelions to tiny suns. Vera, ever the bundle of energy, startled her grandmother with mischief, and Taissia gathered her up for dinner—grated carrots sugared just right and her favourite homemade cutlets. George lingered too, tempted by the mention of cutlets, and hinted at a walk later. By and by, Taissia found herself back on the bench with George, sharing quiet moments now that Simmons and Valentine had retired for the evening. These gentle evenings became habit, strolling to the nearby park, reading magazines, exchanging life stories and recipes. George’s life had not been easy. Widowed young, he raised his daughter, Vera, alone, working late into every night. Vera grew up, moved away, married, had a son, then divorced and raised her boy alone. Visits became rare and strained. One afternoon, George shared news—Vera was coming. Taissia was optimistic, but George doubted: “She wants something, I’m sure.” Vera arrived, all business. She pressed George to sell his flat and move in with her, sharing space with her and her son—a practical solution, but George recoiled, preferring his independent, familiar staple of life. Vera, relentless, learned of her father’s friendship with Taissia and visited, tea and sweets on offer. But her words cut sharp: “Convince him to sell the flat, it’s wasted on one old man. Surely you’re not after it for yourself or your granddaughter?” Accusations flew, harsh words rang out, and Vera stormed away. Taissia was mortified, worried what the neighbours must have heard. For days, she avoided George, ducking inside when she saw him. Yet, as fate would have it, she met George outside the building, making dandelion chains. “Don’t run off,” he pleaded, offering her the half-finished chain. “Sorry for my daughter. I’ve spoken to her—she’s left, and says she has no father now. But I wanted to give you this. I’ve made dandelion jam. It’s delicious—and healthy too,” he smiled, “and dandelion makes a fine salad.” That evening they shared dandelion salad and tea with spoonfuls of his homemade jam. Taissia loved it. Later, they walked together under their favourite linden tree, magazine in hand, laughter rising softly into the spring air. It was just the two of them, their worries forgotten, sharing stories and sweet dandelion jam. Thank you for reading, subscribing, and supporting me. Wishing you all the best in life!

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📌 Useful Social Services & Contacts in the U.S.

Stay informed and get help when you need it. Below are key national services with direct contacts that may support you or your loved ones:
🏥 Health & Mental Support

SAMHSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

What they do: Free and confidential help with substance use and mental health disorders.

Hotline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – 24/7, anonymous support

Website: samhsa.gov

🧒 Support for Children & Families

WIC – Women, Infants, and Children Program

What they do: Nutritional and healthcare support for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.

Federal Info Line: 1-800-522-5006

Find local WIC office: fns.usda.gov/wic

Raised By My Grandmother While My Parents Chased Their Dreams—Now, After Decades Without Contact, They’re Demanding I Pay Them Child Support