Question about Death in Family

<p>So on my transcript for this year (9th grade) I have 2 C's, the rest A's. My average is 89%. I am in all honors. A partial reason for the bad grades was that my grandpa passed away and I lost myself and got distracted. How do I get this point across to the Admission Office? Do I try to mention it in the interview or do I need it in a guidance recommendation? Should I do both? I know that AO's don't fall for sob stories but I just want to make my point clear. Thanks!</p>

<p>How much do you think these grades will affect me while looking at a school like Lawrenceville?</p>