Caring off grid

I am 16 years old and help look after my uncle who has brain damage. I have been helping for around 7 years now and it is amazing at how far my uncle and family have come so far.

We have moved around a lot.  At first was a bit of a struggle because I had to juggle depression and helping everyone so things run smoothly. We have also done lots of travelling to W.A and back, camping along the way.

There was a lot to do and that’s when my depression got the worst. Just recently we moved to Lake Bennet for a few months. There was no house where we lived so we camped in tents and an old caravan. I often went on lone trips during my lunch breaks to collect wood to heat up the fire for showers and also for dinner and my uncle’s cups of tea.

My depression has improved over the years and so has my uncle’s disadvantages. He can remember a lot better and he has lost a lot of weight over the years. We are travelling around Australia soon so there will be plenty of times to help out and I can’t wait to see how everything goes over the years.

Other stories

The Mackay brothers

My name is Dylan, I am 14 and I have 2 younger brothers. Both boys have been diagnosed each with a rare genetic condition. One has congenital myasthenia syndrome, my youngest brother has Muckle Wells syndrome. Both boys need help and I am grateful for being the big brother they need. Wether it’s helping to […]
Read full story

Being a young carer

Most people think of young caring as a duty, or responsibility that the carer had no say in. I think of it as much more than that. Not only does it influence your entire life, views, values. It makes you think about the way you treat people. It teaches you skills that can only be […]
Read full story

Look after you

My name is Miguel, I am 16 and live in the Australian Capital Territory.  I have been caring for my mother for 4 years. My mum has no spleen meaning that she basically has no immune system leading to more problems leaving her always in pain. My piece of advice to my fellow young carers […]
Read full story