How We Honestly Feel About Caring For Our Brother With Special Needs

At 9, Jayden Tan was diagnosed with PURA syndrome, a rare genetic condition (there are only 200+ known patients worldwide). Now 17, he is non-verbal, has developmental delay and needs help with daily tasks like eating.
His three sisters, aged 19, 16 and 14, share about what it's been like growing up with Jayden and the expectations of them as shared caregivers. They also respond to comments from viewers after their family's story was featured on #OnTheRedDot’s Undiagnosed series.
00:00 Life with a special needs sibling
02:16 Brother comforts his sisters
02:48 How to care for special needs brother
05:13 Future caregiving arrangements
07:26 Are sisters forced to be caregivers?
08:35 Do sisters of special needs kid feel overlooked?
10:50 Tips for siblings of a special needs child
11:25 Resources for caregivers
Got an idea for a story you think we should look into? Email [e-mail]
Watch the 4-part series of Undiagnosed: • Life With Our Undiagno...
Also watch:
Life As An Adult With Special Needs: • Life As An Adult With ...
I Only Date Guys Who Accept My Autistic Sister: 27-Year-Old Caregiver: • I Only Date Guys Who A...
How We Live With Autism: Our Special Needs & Strengths: • How We Live With Autis...
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[@mohdfahmy3814]

Excellent job Daddy and Mummy for instilling good family values to your children!

[@bobafett5757]

Dont forget about the maid

[@NazriB]

Lies again? Special Agent National Service

[@stephaniemuse]

If the parents had done a terrible job, their daughters wouldn't be this kind, intelligent, and eloquent. It is clear that they have their own goals and dreams, whilst still also understanding that their parents will grow older and so, eventually, the responsibility of taking care of Jaden would fall on them. There is a balance to be had - and these three girls all seem to have good heads on their shoulders and would definitely be able to make the best choices for their lives. May they be granted many days of happiness and fulfilment.

[@elaineclaire7063]

Love the inclusiveness in this family ❤️ The maturity of each sister really showcases empathy and love in acceptance of the brother.

[@opheliajadefeldt9123]

These are very, very, special girls and their parents must be so proud of them. Just think, we are only watching about 10 ten minutes of THEIR day, they have done this for 24 hours 7 days a week. That is true dedication and sincere care. I hope all their dreams come true because they, more than anyone, deserve them to.

[@limtimothy846]

You three girls have taken family ties & bonding to a new height with so much genuine care, concern, commitment & love for your brother. These days there're some who are so self centred with no time for parents or siblings let alone sibling with special needs. My respect & admiration to you girls. Keep up the good work !!

[@ownthegame3]

Jayden knows he has great sisters and parents. It is not easy but the circumstances bring about the love, the bonds, the humility and empathy that are extraordinary.

[@patt5085]

Growing up wishing my parents would divorce I never really had a moment like this. You guys have each other. Real loving family.

[@elaineclaire7063]

naww, sending some love your way, chin up, sometimes our family are not from our DNA. 🫶🏽

[@HalleysComet81]

Love this! There's no divisive sibling rivalry b/c each sibling sincerely cares, respects, and loves one another equally including special needs brother, Jayden. It's selfish thinking, thinking that Jayden is a burden too. Thank you for sharing this story, CNA Insider! 😁💓!

[@zZiL341yRj736]

This is what family is all about. My family dropped me when I got into a car accident in 2011 and was paralyzed.

[@sunnygarden4948]

Wow the 3 sisters are tight! Ive never see before, they are physically close, holding hands & hugging. And mentally supportive.

[@pinsongorga8466]

Solid Sisterhood ❤

[@qianliow4421]

i watched the entire documentary of the family since the previous ones. respect,admiration to the entire family. it's never ever easy to raise children with special needs. love and light and blessings to the family ❤

[@vincentchanbiz]

The true meaning of love, from parents and siblings. So heartwarming and a great lesson for all of us, staying positive. I wish your family well! ❤

[@dchew5552]

love that the sisters showed so much empathy. I have brain dysfunction, hypothyroidism and pituitary gland issue, brain dysfunction was due to the head injuries I sustained when I was in sec4, which was nine years ago as classmates always like to kick soccer which always hit my head but there's once, one of the classmates kicked soccer ball into the sky while at the field gate into the field, which I got head shot and nose bleed, since then I couldn't cope with studies and been at home ever since, as back then after head injuries I had trouble finding way home after school as I couldn't remember my way home and started having trouble walking normally as my leg would jerk, I usually walk to school within 15minutes but after the head injury it took me an hour. school shows no empathy especially the student council and teacher in charge of the latecomers, even when my teacher request consent from the principal to allow me to enter school after morning assembly and before lesson starts, along with class bullying me as one shouted that im fat and entire classmates laughed along, there bullying got worse as not fat shamed, they even moved my table and chair to somewhere else in the school, stole my textbook and followed me home all the way to my doorsteps. I stopped going school and only attended n level English papers only. principal only advised me to get tested for thyroid which I got hypothyroidism. and since my sis is an adult, my mom ever asked her if she could take care of me in the future when they're not around since I have brain dysfunction im incapable of getting a job as I tried before and had brain fog which impossible to remember the task given, her response shocked my mom as she said "dont ever rely on me, I dont have money" my mom was dishearten by such heartless respond as she earned more than $5k. I was dishearten by her response as for me, if the role were to change, I would definitely take up the role to take care.

[@ethantay4630]

im glad that you are his sisters, you understand the role but still wantto help. not all of us can have such a happy family

[@huilin0708]

this is so heartwarming! lovely to see the sisters so united and grounded in their identity. i watched the previous series, and some people can be so judgemental. as they said, we are just seeing snap shot of what is happening in their lives, we don't have a big picture. kudos to them! tough journey none the less, much salutations to them!

[@P53eud0nym05]

What resulted in those comments was the mum saying the plan was to have more kids so when they are gone there are siblings to look after Jayden. Whether it was edited to make it seem like she said that, or if she legit said that the audience will not know. But since the sisters say they don’t feel that way, good for them.

[@berryspinelsun]

In the previous documentary, the mother did say that they (I assume she and her husband) told the girls that Jayden was part of the girls' responsibility when they are no longer around. That set off a lot of comments in that video saying that that sounds unfair for the girls.

[@AMoKDuke]

Watching this video, I'm filled with immense respect and admiration for all three of you. It's truly heartwarming to see how you embrace the role of caregivers for your brother, Jayden, with such patience, grace, and unwavering love. Remember that it's perfectly okay to have moments of struggle - they don't make you any less incredible. Continue to support one another as you have been, because the unity in your family is truly something special. In a world that often seems lacking in empathy, your unwavering love and dedication to Jayden's well-being is a beacon of hope. Your story serves as an invaluable lesson for us all on the importance of love, resilience, and understanding. Keep shining and inspiring! You're making a difference not just in Jayden's life, but in the lives of all who hear your story. Stay strong! 💪❤

[@jimw8615]

Taking up responsibility is wat I see here. Rather then shy away. U can’t calculate and draw line in a family or in life in general. It loses its meaning after a while. J has somehow become the glue in the family

[@izzabinteismail1566]

amazing and beautiful sisters. just beautiful. brought tears to my eyes to see how optimistic they are, and just how much empathy they have.

[@nicklee7002]

CNA should revisit this family for an update 30 years later.

[@melvintan7781]

The family cohesiveness is heartwarming. And the maturity of the sisters at this age is impressive. When some windows close, other doors open.

[@myeongwol]

So nice to have so much sibling love. Wish the sisters all the best ☺️

[@danicafong-shoji6052]

You girls are awesome! So much respect for your family of taking care of each other ❤

[@jasminetan736]

Well brought up kids and well spoken and mature in their thinking. They will ride out well in life

[@Lemonkisss]

Really strong family made of rock. The wonderful girls are so mature, sweet and awe inspiring at the same time. Jayden definitely feel very cherished every day to be part of this loving family. ❤😊

[@ngenxiadelenbss1849]

the three sisters are so mature !!

[@shumlulu6605]

I also have two siblings with special needs, but I totally understand this is not easy. These three sisters show how much they love & care for their brother, and treat him like a normal kid. This is not everyone can do the same thing as them. Hope your family is happy forever. U guys have done a good job.

[@jennieloh6312]

Proud parents! All of you are so wholesome.

[@dessy982]

You really know these girls has quality like a diamond. Hope they could become successful people in world especially Singapore.🙏🏻

[@metallooily7606]

Take care of each other too, we are proud of all, Parent too

[@Athenaforever2308]

You can see the sisterhood is strong!! You girls are beautiful and inspiring, Thank you!!!! And your brother and your parents are very lucky to have you!!! I am sure you will all go very far in life! Hello to Jayden all the way from Tanzania!

[@jxc168]

Amazing sisters. You all are the epitome of sisterhood

[@belugaservices8424]

I feel you . What a wonderful siblings !! I can relate it , the ups and downs . Keep it up, gals

[@marionsmith4728]

What a wonderful family,so loving and accepting ❤

[@dessy982]

I'm very glad if he has very warm-loving sisters and family in his life..❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@glitterbomb6700]

I would look after him he is so sweet he is a gem

[@paulinewong5906]

These parents are lucky to hv such 3 wonderful girls.. Ya no matter what he is your brother n family stays together or cares for each other

[@suhaimielibra478]

im really understand how your feeling when have 1 bro or sis who special, just like me have 2 sisters that Thallasemia,, taking care of them is a happiness for me cause thats my destiny ,,what an inspirations family

[@SGrailadventure2004]

A great 'sisterhood' of staying strong despite the struggles in helping their special need brother. Seeing fights or arguments within a family is something I won't want to see.

[@cheewanng6138]

All I see is love from every pixel of this video.

[@6969Liverpool]

Lovely siblings & great parenting from parents. Stay Strong ❤❤

[@youtubeaudience384]

I feel so bad for his parents, imagine raising a child like that!? How unfortunate..😢

[@salmasalamoon]

Did you learn nothing from this video?

[@JenniferKim-kv8rx]

Amazing family! If only every family was like this…

[@sarahrean7174]

For the moment parents don't think about the future because everything gonna be on sister's shoulders A lot of adults with disabilities can't leave on their own its very Very Very hard To take care of them You are scared all the time people look down on them You can't have your own life too so It's a burden like older people who are sick I have a brother in the case Family values It's one thing but the difficulties who came with it It's not easy

[@moonstarsun633]

Reality is always hard. If brother suffers from mild autism or mild down syndrome, at least not so bad. Once the sisters have families, it will really be a challenge. The parents must prepare financially well for Jayden's so sisters no need to dig into savings to take care their brother. The sisters can use the funds to take care the brother. This is better I guess.

[@moonrei69]

Awesome sisters, loving family!

[@cherylang4108]

stay strong rooting for your family❤❤

[@JaneJohnson-vg3xi]

god bless you for caring for your brother you girls have alot of love for your brother

[@user-yg7hc6mi6y]

What an amazing family!

[@EmEm872]

What a beautiful family❤

[@lplk]

Respect!

[@MuhammadTahir-lf4hu]

You are strong sisters & your parents are also strong

[@jag4064]

Lovely family.

[@yueling3424]

I LOVE THESE GIRLS!

[@priyavicky3401]

jayden is so lucky to have such loving sisters. One day , when the parents r not around I am sure his sisters would take care of him. Jayden is also good looking .

[@moonstarsun633]

Wait till the sisters are married and have kids.

[@CocoaBanana914]

Beautiful families

[@bchpls24]

Quite sad that they have to make another video just to address comments. People can be mean. How is it even our problem if the sisters want to take care of their own blood?😅

[@youarehere1251]

As time goes by, things will change for better or worse.

[@clara.t68]

Jayden is one lucky lucky child (:

[@mathshouldntdie9996]

Unlucky because he contracted PURA syndrome. Sorry if I was being sorta ableist

[@mmsutantowrites]

Family ❤❤❤

[@AungThu-cg2ov]

Good family.

[@abdulrajaf6]

Honestly...He is Smart...n TRUST...me...he knows a LOT of things that we NORMAL PERSON...dont know.....

[@HarpaxA]

Hopefully they still stay true and taking care of their brother, AFTER they are getting married.

[@moonstarsun633]

When they have their own families, it might be different story. The sisters can said whatever they want now. Unless each of them is willing to take turn let him stay at their home and hire a maid. But I'm sure the parents have to prepare for Jayden's so as to relieve sisters from bearing the bulk of responsibilities. Wishing them well!

[@bobafett5757]

*Am just wondering is there any type of cure for such condition ?*

[@bobafett5757]

*Unsure if the sister knows the difference between a caretaker and caregiver cos its not the same based on the brothers situation*

[@wanderfooltang3520]

3 great lovely sisters

[@gpaulac5284]

Pass

[@bobafett5757]

*Looks like theres a maid in this household so all respect to the maid*

[@janeli1351]

❤❤❤❤

[@KironManuelCards]

If anyone wants care either in Singapore or Malaysia,let me know.

[@emmajk7433]

❤❤❤

[@irenekoo]

FAST AND FURIUOUS X is the bomb!

[@martinarchie2902]

It is a JOKE OF A MOVIE

[@kinokunia]

whoa, wondered who would even think that he is a burden.

[@brucelee5576]

Man I haven’t seen a Hungry Hungry Hippo in 35 years.

[@jewelpteltd439]

Your World in mine 你的世界我们懂

[@Honeymagmangospoof]

Why you all only feature this Chinese family

[@CUSSLIKEASAILOR]

☝🏾❤️🤙🏾

[@officialnyiyanmoehtet]

What are the heights of the 14 and 16 years old girls? Jeslyn and Selene. And why were they born as girls? Is it because they want to be females? So jealous, I don't want to be a male. I want to be a female but my parents don't let me.

[@joelsimpp]

I want to be autistic pls

[@jewelseng9900]

Everything’s cool before they found their “the ones” 😂 after marriage it’s totally gonna be a different story with the siblings

[@moonstarsun633]

Agreed

[@jewelseng9900]

@@moonstarsun633 after them having their own kids to take care of meh 🫤 that poor brother , hope the parents are still alive

[@Julio-wf8go]

Promo`SM

[@jessz3104]

the parents are very selfish. to limit their daughter's opportunity by tying them down to their brother. the 3 sisters have no husband or boyfriend yet. easy for them to say anything, wait till they have their own families and children...

[@fuschiarose]

Clearly you don’t understand, nor do you have the honor of caring for a loved one with special needs. Can’t you see that they’re happy caring for their brother? Is life really all about finding a mate? You believe they won’t be able to find someone all because their brother is disabled?

[@hayatieow4727]

I think the parents are trying to push the responsibility of taking care of the brother without considerations towards the 3 girls who have their own individual challenges in life to manage! It is a real challenge for the parents to do what are the right things to do , in all aspects of the family life ! Nevertheless, instilling the genuine care n love giving is universally recognized as the proud value that each n everyone of us should. Have to be spiritually strong n committed while facing adversities in life. Good Luck!

[@chowpoknga6805]

I think the brother make these 3 girls to be strong and mature faster than girls of their age. So see it as a blessing in disguise. Let’s face it even normal people can’t tell how the future holds. So stop worrying and just enjoy the company around you now.

[@user-rw6vz1br9w]

Hwre i am a sjngle daughter with some defects in me. And my parents hate me, for bejng a girl 😂

[@lpericteo]

阿弥陀佛🙏🙏🙏善哉善哉

[@GPTMagana]

well, I'm sorry. But I will see Jayden as a guy on drugs overloaded with sugar

[@playmobil806]

Muttersprachen überprüfen....

[@tokitoyotokitoyo]

Too much pork !

[@CrystalCat24]

LMFAO get out of here 😅