The Young Carer's Canada is a movement that is gaining momentum in Canada. I am excited to be a part of this movement because I believe that Caregivers are a silent population that provide untold hours of service to family members. They bear great burdens, often in silence with no validation, training or support. They are a tapestry that holds families together, they breathe life into the sick, and allow people living with chronic illness and disability quality of life.
A Young Carer is a person who provides care to a family member with a chronic illness, disability, who is recovering from addiction, serious injury, or language barrier. Their duties may include cooking, cleaning, assisting with medications, household maintenance, shopping or translating at medical, legal appointments or in the community. These tasks may occur daily or just when assistance is needed.
Please visit these You Tube Videos for more information:
The Powerhouse Project- Taking Care of Young Cares
Comox Valley Youth as Caregivers- Ending the Silence
Young Carer, Young What?
"Lucky" and the Young Carer Rap
Canadian Young Carer's Projects:
Canadian Young Carers In the News
Children who look after ailing parents often overlooked | CTV News
http://mssociety.ca/ontario/pdf/ms-on-2010fallwinter.pdf
http://mssociety.ca/ontario/pdf/MSOntarioSummer2009.pdf