CARLSBORG — For the second time since 1995, family members’ drug abuse is transforming Linda Silvas’ life.
Eleven years ago, Silvas was a professional pool player, artist and drum designer.
“I was traveling around, having a good time,” she said.
Then she learned that her 3-month-old grandson needed her. His parents were deep into methamphetamine use.
Silvas quit traveling. She became one of the legion of grandparents coping with the arrival of young grandchildren whose parents are addicted, incarcerated or dead due to drugs.
According to the 2000 census, more than 35,000 grandparents in Washington are primary caregivers of their grandchildren.
That number is probably much higher in 2006.
Meth affects parent skills
Darinda Hagstrom, facilitator of a grandparents’ support group in Sequim, said methamphetamine has rendered increasing numbers of parents unable to care for their children.
Silvas, now 57, raised her grandson for eight years. He’s 11 and back with his parents, who have recovered.
Silvas, who is a member of California’s Acjachemen tribe, has since written a book about a family coping with what she calls the “forbidden fruit” in a place thinly disguised as the Olympic Peninsula.
Mama Bear Baby Bear, a 52-page paperback, is for children, parents and extended family, Silvas said.
It takes a metaphorical — and often poetic — approach to the havoc drugs wreak on families, and is illustrated with Silvas’ paintings of animals and Native American symbols.
Mama Bear has gained the attention of teachers and counselors across the country, and Silvas is preparing to speak at conferences in Skagit County, Reno, Nev., Tucson, Ariz., Dallas and Denver this spring.