Growing Up Too Soon: The Burden of Caregiving on Children



This story is about my sons, Liam and Bayler; their remarkable story showcases the love and compassion of a child toward their father living with ALS. Even at the age of 20 months, Liam would wake up in the morning, check on his father, and ask what he needed.

He would cover him with a blanket, put his glasses on, suction out his mouth, and hug and kiss him. As he grew older, Liam learned how to help with suction and cough assistance, feed his father, reposition his hands and feet, turn lights on and off, open and close doors, and even drive his wheelchair. Liam's love and dedication toward his father are undeniable.

Bayler is a special boy, but he is not as gentle-handed, so he used to read to his father. He would sing, tell stories, and reassure his dad when needed most. Bayler inherited his father's hot and cold personality, similar to a sour patch candy, sour but sweet.

Unfortunately, Liam and Baylers stories are not unique. In the United States, approximately 1.3 million children ages 8-18 are caregivers. They provide physical, emotional, and sometimes financial support to their loved ones, often sacrificing their childhoods. The harsh reality many families face, and it's time to recognize that this burden should not fall on children's shoulders.


While Liam and Baylers love for their father is inspiring, it's critical to acknowledge that children should not have to be caregivers. Children should be allowed to be children, play, laugh, learn, and grow without worrying about caring for their sick or disabled family members. Liam and his brother Bayler had to grow up quickly and take on adult responsibilities that no child should bear.

However, Liam and Bayler's father is proud of the young men they are becoming, and their love and dedication to him are unwavering. Liam and Bayler have big hearts. They have learned how to care for their father with compassion and maturity. They help feed him, reposition his hands and feet, turn lights on and off, open and close doors, and even drive his wheelchair.

The burden of caregiving on children is a significant issue that needs to be resolved to provide better support systems for families with caregiving responsibilities. We must also work toward prevention and early intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment of chronic illnesses and disabilities can reduce the burden of caregiving on families and promote better health outcomes for everyone involved.

Liam and Baylers story is a testament to the power of family and compassion. It's heartwarming to see how a child can be so caring and helpful towards his father, but it's also important to recognize that this burden should not fall on children's shoulders.

We must work towards a society where children can enjoy their childhoods without worrying about taking care of their loved ones.

Thank you, Liam and Bayler, for being such wonderful sons to a broken-bodied father. I am so grateful to you. I know your mother and grandparents will always be cared for with boys around, just like you will be.

Love you,

Dad




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