Alex’s Story
Alex is a Young Carer for his mum, Amanda. Amanda is a single mum who uses a wheelchair. At home, Alex helps with many of the everyday things that keep their household running — from cooking and cleaning to shopping and looking after their animals.
Amanda says Alex carries more responsibility than most kids his age, meaning Alex has had to grow up faster than many children his age. He also has less time to simply be a kid.
Alex has taken part in several programs at Little Dreamers, including our Mentoring Program, where he was matched with his mentor, Darren.
For Alex, mentoring gives him something important: another trusted adult who knows about his life as a Young Carer. Many of Alex’s school friends don’t know about his mum’s disability or the responsibilities he has at home. With Darren, Alex can talk openly, ask questions, bounce around ideas — or simply play basketball and have fun.
“I really appreciate that I can go to him and not feel embarrassed or scared. I can just be honest and tell him what’s really going on.”
And while caring comes with challenges, Alex is also clear about what it has given him. He says the best thing about caring for his mum is that it has made their relationship stronger.
Watch Alex and Amanda’s story to learn more about life as a Young Carer — and why having someone in your corner can make such a difference.
