AACY Caregiving Youth Action Day 2025: A Journey of Love and Resilience
On March 26, 2025, I had the incredible honor of delivering the keynote speech at the American Association of Caregiving Youth (AACY) Caregiving Youth Action Day. I shared my story—my journey with my grandmother, Mimi—and why recognizing and uplifting caregiving youth matters now more than ever.
My Journey with Mimi
Mimi has always been my rock—my biggest cheerleader at soccer games, the one who taught me how to bake her famous pecan pie. But a eight years ago, everything changed when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Suddenly, I wasn’t just her granddaughter anymore; I became her caregiver too along with my family. Some days are tough—like when she forgets who I am or is scared she does not “know where she is supposed to be.” But through it all, Mimi has taught me more about patience, empathy, and love than I ever thought possible.
“Caregiving isn’t something I chose; it chose me,” I said in my keynote. “But I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. It’s shown me the strength we all have inside us, even when we don’t realize it.” My journey with Mimi isn’t just about the challenges—it’s about the moments of joy, like when she smiles at a memory we share, or when I feel proud knowing I’m helping her live with dignity.
Why Caregiving Youth Matter
I’m not alone in this. There are about 1.6 million kids like me, aged 15 to 18, across the U.S. who are caregivers—9% of my age group, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving. We’re helping parents, siblings, or grandparents with everything from physical care to emotional support, often while trying to keep up with school and just be teenagers. It’s a big job, and it comes with struggles: many are falling behind on homework, missing out on hangouts with friends, or feeling the weight of worry about our loved ones. But we’re also a vital part of our communities, holding families together and showing up when it counts.
That’s why events like the AACY Caregiving Youth Action Day are so important. They shine a light on us—kids who don’t always get noticed but who make a huge difference every day. During my speech, I talked about how we’re not just getting by; we’re growing, learning resilience, and building skills that will last a lifetime. Caregiving youth deserve support—not just to survive, but to thrive.
Uplifting Our Unsung Heroes
During the event, I wanted every caregiving youth in the room to know they’re not invisible. Community matters, and it’s what keeps us going. Organizations like American Association of Caregiving Youth (AACY) get that. They offer programs to help us manage our responsibilities, connect with others who understand, and even plan for our futures—whether that’s college, a job, or just a moment to breathe.
To every caregiving youth out there: you are an unsung hero. Your strength inspires me, and it should inspire everyone. To everyone else: see us, support us, and help us keep going. Visit www.aacy.org to learn more about how AACY is championing caregiving youth and how you can get involved. Together, we can lift up these quiet heroes who make our communities stronger.
As I closed my keynote, I looked out at the crowd and felt a surge of pride—not just for myself, but for all of us. Mimi might not always remember my name these days, but she’s given me a purpose I’ll carry forever. And through AACY, I hope we can give every caregiving youth the chance to shine.