My name is Tatianah, and I am a young caregiver.
I cared for my dad who had cancer. I helped him mainly by taking care of my younger sister. She would feel lonely and scared if she was alone, so we would watch TV, play with her toys and draw together. I also helped with making dinner. I was trying to be as helpful as I could to my dad, but also to my mom and my sister.
We heard about Powerhouse at his hospice and after he passed away, I started going. Sometimes when I’m sad, it makes me happy to go there. I often talk to my mom when I’m sad, but it comforts me to go to Powerhouse because there are other kids who are also going through tough things. It’s nice to see that they can be happy! I don’t share my story a lot, but it’s nice to be there because they know that I am going through something tough, but I don’t have to explain how it feels.
I wish I could have gone to Powerhouse when my dad was sick, but I didn’t know about it then.
I am really proud to be a young caregiver. It makes me feel like I’m a good person who cares about other people. I think I learned to be a good caregiver by taking care of my dad. For example, when my sister and I go somewhere together, I always look out for her to make sure she’s ok.
I want other young caregivers to know about Powerhouse and to come have fun with us. It will make them feel happier, they would have a lot of fun and learn to think more positively.
“I wish I could have gone to Powerhouse when my dad was sick, but I didn’t know about it then.”
– Tatianah, 12 Years Old, Cared for her dad