Maria's Story

My name is Maria, I am 15 and live in Queensland. One unique thing about me is I play basketball.

I have been caring for my mother for 12 months. My mother requires care because she has a really bad mental state and forgets thing frequently.

I have to care for my mother because I love her. My responsibilities include sorting out her medication and food. However I also have to sort out her clothing. Just like me I’d imagine other young carers would also have to clean up after them.

A good day caring for my looks like she is happy and laughs and isn’t sad. A bad day caring for my looks like she cry’s I get frustrated and upset. Being away from my mother makes me feel sad.

Being a carer has changed my life because everything I do revolves around her. Because of my caring role I am unable to go out often or have me time.

Being a carer has taught me that not everything is your choice and we all have to step up sometimes. I would cope better with my caring role if I didn’t get frustrated.

I would like others to realise that you should always take care of the ones you love. My piece of advice to my fellow young carers is to always make sure you are taking care of yourself too.