Nominated by: Jack Connolly and Angie Connolly
A GRANDMOTHER who helped her autistic grandchild progress from being unable to leave the house to attending college has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year after dedicating more than 20 years to caring for those around her.
Janet Connolly moved from the UK to Jersey 15 years ago to support her family, having previously spent entire summers in the Island helping care for her grandchildren.
She has been nominated for an award by both her daughter Angie Connolly and her grandson Jack Connolly.
Mr Connolly said: “Her kindness, generosity and unconditional love have shaped our family.”
Mrs Connolly has often looked after all six of her grandchildren at once so her daughters could go shopping without worrying – always with a smile on her face.
Angie Connolly said her mother’s care had helped her nephew progress from being unable to leave the house to now attending college.
Through activities such as painting, Mrs Connolly has created strong bonds with her grandchildren and special memories for the family despite the challenges they have faced.
She has also found time to support Autism Jersey, initially volunteering in its shop before going on to take up paid work with the charity alongside her volunteering.
Above all, her family said Mrs Connolly has always made them feel safe, even during the most challenging times.
