"Publicly he continues to claim that he wants to spend time with us while privately my entire life has been psychological abuse from him," wrote Bindi on Facebook.
On Father's Day, Bindi Irwin posted a sweet tribute on Instagram and Facebook celebrating all the wonderful fathers in her life. Of course, this included her late father Steve Irwin, her husband Chandler Powell, and her father-in-law. "Appreciation post for the three most incredible fathers in my life. My dad, my husband, and my father-in-law. My dad taught me the importance of strength when standing up for what I believe in and to have empathy for all living beings. My husband amazes me every day with his kind and steadfast heart, his love for our daughter is infinite. My father-in-law works tirelessly for his family and is always there with a word of encouragement. These extraordinary men inspire me and I love them so very much," wrote the 22-year-old wildlife conservationist.
However, she made no mention of her grandfather Bob Irwin and her followers were quick to point that out. When one of her Facebook fans asked why she didn't care to include Steve's father, Bindi spoke out about her strained relationship with her estranged grandfather and claimed that he ignored her since she was a "little girl," reports 7News. Providing a raw account of how Bob treated her, Bindi wrote in the comment section, "I really wish that my entire family could spend time with Grace. Unfortunately, my grandfather Bob has shown no interest in spending time with me or my family. Publicly he continues to claim that he wants to spend time with us while privately my entire life has been psychological abuse from him."
Apparently, he even "returned gifts I've sent after he opened them" and shockingly ignored any letters she had sent him. "From the time I was a little girl he has ignored me, preferring to spend time doing anything else rather than being with me," she said noting the heartbreaking reality. "He has never said a single kind word to me personally. It breaks my heart but it is not healthy to engage in an abusive relationship." Next, she revealed how her mother, Terri, still writes to him and even sends him birthday and Christmas cards to this day. However, she claimed, there has been no response from his end.
"We have also been his financial support since 1992 when he returned from Australia Zoo, sending him funds every week. We built him a house on a beautiful property and will always do our best to ensure his wellbeing," she wrote, adding. "I want Bob's happiness in life but I cannot be victim to his mental abuse anymore." Concluding the post, she reminded everyone to be kind to each other but most importantly to themselves. "I hope everyone remembers to be kind to one another but most of all care for your own mental health. I have struggled with this relationship my entire life and it brings me enormous pain. I have to choose to care for my own mental health now," she expressed.
A day later Bindi shared a quote by Steve Maraboli and a few hours after that the mother of one announced that she will be taking some time off social media. "Hi guys, Just a note to say thank you for your support. I’m taking a break from social media and most of my work in the public eye for a month to be with my beautiful daughter and my wonderful family. I feel tremendously grateful to share our life and conservation work with you but I need some time to focus on the happiness that is my family (both human and animal)," read her Instagram post.
Cover image source: Getty | Photo by Bradley Kanaris (L&R)
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