What It's Like To Take Care Of Multiple Family Members At Age 15

Jonathan is 15 years old and lives in Palm Beach, FL with his mother who has MS, his younger brother has a cranial disorder, and his grandmother that was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. As the only able-bodied person in his home during the week, before and after school Jonathan cares for his mother, brother, and grandmother while also managing his football and school schedule. He is what is becoming more known as a "teen caregiver."​
Even though there are an estimated 1.3 million kids in these roles, the U.S has still not passed any laws or legislation to support them.​​
"That's a big burden to have on a 15 year old child who should be living life going to homecoming worrying about what movie he's going to go with his friends, not hurrying up to come home to take care of his little brother and take care of his mother and take care of his grandmother," Jonathan's Mother Jennifer Gutierrez told VICE News. "He should not have to worry about those things. Unfortunately he does"
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[@VICENews]

Even though there are an estimated 1.3 million kids in these roles, the U.S has still not passed any laws or legislation to support them.​​ WATCH NEXT: Kids of the corn farm - bit.ly/2yfc35F

[@AustinWeaves]

Ya cuz they shouldn’t get pregnant

[@zefsam]

VICE News ya vice news like their own comment. Lol

[@theclasmalls1051]

VICE News Is there a GoFund for this boy or a p.o box number?

[@olive_dragonzsgaming8134]

VICE News I

[@TheKentanthony]

Oh its like here in ph.

[@iimcristal]

“They think I’m just another student who doesn’t care about school but I do,They don’t understand what I’m dealing with” I totally felt that.

[@carochan86]

They need to sit down with his teachers and explain what's going on. Maybe the teachers can work with him or help him get a plan for his school work. When you go to college there is a lot more work to be done. If he wants to do college he should even if it's Community College.

[@KillJoy_Since2017]

Same

[@carochan86]

@A G I agree when I got to college I thought I was in heaven. I could take classes later in the day, make my own schedule, and pick my teachers. Class wise I think College is a lot harder. The Transition from Highschool to College was hard for me.

[@fuzionghost7253]

Cristal facts

[@sophiag2721]

Cristal so did I, I was also a caretaker for my mom from 11 until she passed in 2012 it def forces you to grow up quickly

[@bravoprojectrunwayfans]

I like this Mother!! She recognizes that her son should be a kid and go have fun. Most parents take advantage of that.

[@heyitshades7552]

exactly, she can acknowledge the fact that a 15 yr old should not have to go do this stuff while others sadly use that as an excuse for them to lay in bed watch tv all day.

[@oomiesays]

I like your display name

[@phoreignoutcast1361]

HeyItsHades same here my adolescence and childhood was not the same like others

[@unhealthynirvanafan888]

It's time to stop | well she and many others have every right to think the way that she does. no kid cries out from the sky asking to be born. children are humans too.

[@kristaj428]

@@unhealthynirvanafan888 why shouldn't she this mother worked and provided until she couldn't don't speak on it if you don't know and if you do that's just sad.

[@albertol9654]

May this kid have a wealthy future.. he deserves it.

[@StarGazer05916]

Alberto L until he goes into drugs and has negative thoughts

[@OMGitsTerasu]

@@StarGazer05916 ill thoughts should not be voiced

[@Sahelanthr0pus00]

Topromonboi Chavez why would you say something like that?

[@exglued2394]

Topromonboi Chavez bruh shutup

[@mythmaks7497]

Topromonboi Chavez why do you have to the negative side of things? Life is short why would you have the time for this kind of bs?

[@bankrupttraveler468]

5:22 “I like football because i don’t have to take care of anybody over here, i just do my thing” i respect you brother

[@tifa4310]

Bröther*

[@1kyeo]

love* not like

[@sipstea153]

Tifa Azahra- he spelt it correctly. It’s Brother.

[@mml0082]

I admire this kid.. he's gonna grow up to be a strong caring man

[@rosymartinez3371]

Or he might crack one day.. To much responsibility for a teen.

[@vokesayshi5449]

*shoots up school

[@billybob-rc5pc]

Lol

[@vokesayshi5449]

Luis G you right💀💀

[@chinoscars5655]

Or he can one day give up and say wtf why should i? Why me? And end up being a drug addict keeping all that pain inside.

[@quinlanbell2335]

This kid is very well spoken and comes across as quite intelligent, he’s gonna be a wonderful man

[@refundmybirth6334]

Right 💯💯💯

[@MintyVL]

You’re right, but this is sad. He’s had to survive given the circumstances he’s in. His childhood has been robbed from him. He was forced to take on adult roles a lot sooner than most American children.

[@humanitystherapist]

so easy to say “hes going to be successful” when you are not in his position.

[@Honeyhaze17]

AGREED!!!

[@dstar222]

@@humanitystherapist THANK YOU! alot of people think when people are in these situations that they will have a great life. a lot of caregivers who family members that they care for die they end up jobless and even homeless since they have no support.

[@no3miiiz]

This Boy is already a Man when some “men” will never reach that potential. Beautiful

[@kreempiez3723]

Hippity hoppity "WOMAN" are property

[@koo-core7274]

iBodiz -_ sure dude. every man comes from a women and starts out as one in the womb. im pretty sure we’re not property. Men need women, not the other way around.

[@eli_man3811]

AyYaretzi very true

[@radicalescapist]

@@koo-core7274 stop trying to feel special

[@kingdd307]

@@koo-core7274 guess what without men there would be no women

[@Sj-rj2on]

I see everybody praising the kid which is all good but what about the dad working 2 jobs to support his family financially i see you pops working hard to provide for your fam one love 💯💯💯

[@AnikaGallastegui]

Enrique Moreira 👌🏼💯

[@ibethibeth2638]

That’s what a parent should do. That’s a parents job, to support the family. A 15 year old never signed up for that.

[@akaya714]

I don’t praise adults for doing the right thing only children who do not have a say in the matter and do the right thing

[@locruz3664]

Yes!!

[@tellmesomething2412]

Boy probably gets it from his dad.

[@xfercoachkris]

Meanwhile we have grown men refusing to take care of their own kids. Your definitely a flying eagle!!

[@sixteen.candles.4644]

Say that AGAIN 👏

[@redtaylor4936]

Yes

[@user-et7fu3jg9l]

🙌

[@Astroandy1]

❗️❗️❗️❗️❗️

[@shawnhutchens5056]

Not just men my mom abondoned me

[@FutureApple1921]

This kids gonna be so successful. His work ethic is insane

[@AlanLiang]

The sad thing is that much of success in life is not determined by working hard. There are tons of people who suffer and die even with the most determined work ethic simply because they did not get lucky with a certain opportunity or were born into wealth. I think it's disingenuous to say that simply because he works hard he is going to do well, although I really wish that were the case. Thats why I think education and government programs are important in giving these people the chance that they need.

[@cameliapacheco392]

Alan Liang not to mention that sometimes the caregiver dies from a heart attack from stress, this often happens to elderly couples.

[@amaryllisbrooke8098]

sometimes I wish I could work also as a fifteen year old female to be successful in life... and also practice myself for the upcoming "tribulations" 😆. But I'm lazy af.. This boy though

[@banger1624]

Alan Liang hard work pays off. Most people born into poverty move up by the time they die.

[@lamingtongirl123]

Eric Jang that is not true! More people statistically born into poverty will die in poverty! Where you are born can determine your situation in the future. Yes every so often some people can get out but that is a minority. The chance of escaping poverty is very slim.

[@lisette1976]

Imagine how the dad feels. Two jobs basically means he's only home for at the most 1-2 hours before he has to go to sleep

[@ratonescamilla4911]

It sucks cause my brother has like 2 or 3 jobs and he is always really tired but sometimes his kid wants to play and he is just so tired

[@queenrae9]

To make 72,000 a yr, yep 2 full time jobs plus overtime

[@aderfigueroa]

No 2 part time jobs

[@adrianajimenez4342]

What an awesome kid

[@adrianajimenez4342]

He is an angel

[@MCMLXXXIX1989]

These types of stories make me hate when adults tell minors "wait until you get in the REAL world" because minors live in the real world too. Don't dismiss what children and teens go through just because they're not adults yet.

[@tylerthompson6147]

Facts

[@Thisplaceisaprison3912]

They’ll deny this family government assistant, but healthy people will lie on forms and get a huge payout from the system when they could be working. It makes me sad. What a wonderful family. I wish you all the best luck.

[@JamButter123]

Nicole Shepherd then disabled families will get lawyer to fight them to get benefits. It’s too difficult but you can get benefits. Fake disabled families will get big consequences like big trouble in their future and stupidity

[@lacyb864]

I get denied insurance every time it comes back they say I'm an adult and I have sign up because I'm "18" When I'm 16 and I'm always sick because my illness and they never denied my brother who hasn't once been in a hospital

[@amberhall1288]

Nicole Shepherd Right! She’d have to divorce her husband and lie to be able to get any help. It’s bullshit.

[@OLyonnais28]

Nicole Shepherd Medicaid and Medicare doesn’t get abused as much as you’d like to think. Work in health care and you’d see

[@shebashaj9572]

Agree 100%. I’ve seen first hand people who cheat the system. Lying to get thousands of government assistance. I’ve seen Mothers who collect housing section 8, food stamps, and other assistances stating they are “alone” raising the kids and can’t work meanwhile these woman (who are absolutely capable to work) are sharing the government provided house w their significant others. Bc they get huge amounts of money with very little to nothing in bills They then can go and splurge their money to fund multiple trips out of the country, designer clothes, expensive phones, and feeding their bad habits. Where meanwhile families (like in the video) that genuinely need help and assistance can’t get anything.

[@cindyle4258]

Wow. I have much respect towards him. So much responsibility at that age...

[@maceywhittington1377]

moon flower same!💛💖💜❤️

[@andretti-lovezsazsa8066]

He’s willing unlike other kids his age or adults.. he’s learning compassion, patience, kindness, respect for them and himself.. he’s learning from observing what the needs of each one are and he’s maturing with the Blessing if God..

[@meganp8766]

Andretti-Love, Zsazsa Amen! So admirable. There is so much that we can all learn from him. Watching this helped me to see that I can be doing more to be compassionate.

[@Joesy015]

This boy shows the next generation isn’t lost. He is such an inspiration to any and everyone. Now that puts life into perspective and people need to stop whining when he has real problems and just try’s everyday to be positive. He is caring for his mother,grandmother,and brother I’m sorry he has to do so much at such a young age but I hope and pray that when he is an adult he strives and does great things.

[@PrometheanFlame]

•Murray• •HeleneJ• He shouldn’t be doing all of this, they need support. This is why some kids quit school, because they have to take care of their families and don’t have time for school and their personal lives.

[@Joesy015]

PrometheanFlame well obviously it’s heartbreaking and he shouldn’t be of course but he’s atleast helping so he should commended for it. He how atleast the group outlet which may not seem like much but is a start and let’s him know atleast he isn’t alone going through something but atleast he’s trying to help his family. Any kid that goes through this shouldn’t but the point is they are preserving through it all so it is by far making him tough as nails and will go out in this world and do great things I just know it.

[@madzmorgie5048]

We were never lost, it's the previous generation that left us a country full of poverty, debt, and destablization. I know conservatives like to blame high school and college students for their problems but we're just students at the end of the day. My parents taught me the consequences of my actions at a young age, sometimes I feel like the previous generation weren't taught this or forget it as they got older.

[@Joesy015]

Myopic Morgie I’m 27 with 3 kids under 7 and a child of immigrants from Jamaica and trust me. The difference is startling from me who was born in 1990, to those who were born in the 2000s. I notice a lot of rudeness,entitlement, and laziness with the next generation coming up. Obviously not everyone is like that and some people are mature and responsible from young, I was one of those people who has been mature from 15 and independent but just hope more people can be of the understanding parents or others won’t give a free ride and everyone must work for what they want. Trust me the same debt you complain about and all the other things you wrote is the same problems someone my age is dealing with themselves who is actually already in the world working and has their own family. Every generation inherited something from the previous generation both good and bad. Also too much technology has made people less empathetic then from the time I was raised in the 90s. No one is as concerned as they used to be about helping the other person out. People are straight up self serving now a days and that is what is destroying society. I’m trying to teach my children from young manners,respect themselves and others, as well as be independent. Values taught to me by my immigrant parents.

[@madzmorgie5048]

•Murray• •HeleneJ• I'm not saying a lot of us haven't fallen into same trap that prior generation was, I'm just saying less of our generation buy into the narrative. More than half of us support a living wage, healthcare for all, etc.

[@Beelzebubby91]

I hope his teachers saw this

[@Rinsuki]

I suffered severe depression in middle school and entering high school. All my teachers thought I was just being problematic but one teacher believed in me. Just one, but it changed my life. I am thankful I had someone who thought differently. This is very important in a child's life. We spend much of our time in school and so recognizing this will help students.

[@BlizzardBoyzProduction]

Rinsuki we didn’t fucking ask for your life story

[@elchickon1256]

@@BlizzardBoyzProduction and we didnt fucking ask for ur opinion

[@cheeto9869]

Same

[@soupwithnosoup4706]

@@BlizzardBoyzProduction Well shit, no one fucking asked you to respond to it.

[@emmaelisabet561]

So many teachers just don’t care, when I just started college we found out my brother had a brain tumor and when I talked to my professors about me sometimes not being able to meet deadlines due to me helping my mom and working to help pay for anything needed they told me to drop out.

[@avsaroksar5839]

I hope your going to have a good future. You should talk to a counsellor to ask for a change with the deadlines. Those teachers that are telling are telling you that are just bad people. I wish you the best luck.

[@1063-x6b]

I think perhaps you should assess how much time and effort you can put into your school work right now, if you can't and there is a high chance of you failing and being penalised, perhaps you should take some time away from study until your family situation stabilize. If you keep going and can't commit the time and effort you need, you'll continue to rack up unnecessary study debt that you don't need. A leave of absence is not quitting, or perhaps that's not an option for you, I hope things work out for you.

[@sixteen.candles.4644]

Yeah when my aunts brother died her professor didn't care he still failed her. Idk what crawled up these peoples asses and died for them to act like that.

[@andreaacosta272685]

The point of college is to make students fail, and come up w the stupid question of “then why are you here?” 😤 smh

[@AlphineWolf]

You need better profs. Mine, bless his departed soul allowed students all time they needed. Shit happens. All he wanted was us telling him about the shit happening.

[@nottadaygoby]

Strong young man mentally & physically

[@aaliyahsalvador2480]

SOMEONE CALL ELLEN

[@AndreaR12810]

Or Oprah

[@denysealvarez9767]

For real

[@Itzjustad]

Righttt!!!!!!!

[@Absurdity101]

Remember there about 1.3 million children who have these roles. This is just one of them....

[@dylanh8957]

He deserves at 100,000 dollars

[@angelicgarden4818]

New title: “what it’s like to be a super hero at the age of 15”

[@FlossyMae843]

Yesss 🎯

[@alyssapuga288]

SOMEONE GIVE THIS AMAZING BOY A FULL RIDE SCHOLARSHIP 😭😭😭

[@KerriCz]

This is both inspiring and heartbreaking.

[@nordette]

They should get divorced, just on paper so then she would get the government support she needs as a single not working mom

[@mauricioibarra701]

Yea you gotta work the system to get help sometimes.

[@monicaortiz7331]

I was thinking the same thing..they need all the help they can get.

[@Latii007]

Exactly

[@helen8022]

Thing is tho what if something happens to the dad? Then they don't get his insurance or benefits should he die early. Maybe?

[@nordette]

@@helen8022 no if he sets up a will and trust for the kids and wife then it should go to them. It would help them from drowning right now

[@keysersoze5032]

This is insane. I feel for the kid, my mother also has multiple sclerosis and can't walk. Thankfully I have my father and other caregivers to help her out. I can't imagine having to take care of her by myself and 2 other disabled people. This kid deserves major props!

[@martins4841]

God bless this kid! Hope all his endeavors come to fruition 🥇

[@amaryllisbrooke8098]

amen

[@shanekary6316]

^^^

[@iamosunfunke]

Amen!

[@lauras.2032]

Martin Sanchez Amen 🙏🏾 Ps. atheist don't comment in a hateful butthurt manner just ignore the comment

[@liMikk5.0]

Amen

[@elisewarnicke4767]

At least the mother recognizes that her kid should be living life. At least she is thankful for him and appreciates everything he does.

[@DucklengUgly]

He has the right mentality. They are blessed that he is a smart kid.

[@vaalryn]

That boy is going to grow up to be such a good and responsible man since he’s already been through a lot. Lots of kids make their moms do everything for them, dishes, laundry, cooking, cleaning, and so much more. They don’t think much of it at all. Those are people who depend too much on others and don’t work for themselves. They won’t be successful if they keep up with that kind of thinking.

[@richiari3834]

Satisfaction Overload hey, will tbh I don’t think much of helping my mom and I’m the only child. Sometimes I ask her if she needs help but she says no and it feels like she wants to do everything by herself, i want to be responsible so that I can prove that I can go out there in the real world, if you have advice plz tell me

[@reggie6997]

He either 17 or 18 rn and I feel bad if he is bc he’s graduating through online class

[@Hatingonyall2023]

That’s not what u should be feeling bad about

[@bpennie486]

@@Hatingonyall2023 exactly

[@bpennie486]

So is everyone else

[@L._.A-06]

Honestly probably better if he still has this schedule

[@amira7708]

B Pennie u missed the whole point fham

[@laurissalynn7531]

made me cry what a great kid 🌟

[@Issa_adoum]

Laurissa Melchor-Rios I wasn’t crying 😭 but my eyes were tearing

[@hamzahabahbeh9442]

Im crying I feel badd

[@juliedavis9726]

Obviously that "child" (who's a man) has been raised right. He loves his family and does the right thing no matter what.

[@something7829]

A real man would have left asap.

[@sixteen.candles.4644]

@@something7829 no thats a selfish asswipe. You don't leave family when they need you most. That child is more of a man than you'll ever be.

[@Shanaaa_Starrr]

I went to middle school with John. He was such a good kid and so funny. I had NO idea he had this problem. You could see someone everyday but never really know what they're going through. I'm praying for you John. And I hope everything is well with you. 💖

[@kapilpatel4849]

Now he's a real man, so much respect for this guy. Bless this family, i hope things get better for them

[@shailia93]

His mom has no idea what a good man she’s gonna have on her hands when he gets older ❤️👏🏽🤴🏽

[@chaimaamoumad6819]

He is already a real man. It made me cry that I'm unable to help him, he deserves help

[@hellohi119]

Alesha Franklin but when he gets a girl he ain’t gonna have time

[@rebeccaramos3246]

I'm sure she realizes exactly what an incredible man her son is.

[@gorillatagfun5336]

She knows

[@naturelover3548]

This was my life when I was 15 years old ! I’ve spent half of my life taking care of everybody and make sure they were okay sometimes you cried silently because you’ve missed your younger normal years without too much burden in your shoulder and free to do whatever you want in those years ! It was so tiring but it shaped me who I am today but I lost too many opportunities in life because of it ! Sometimes I’ve felt the resentment of why I cared too much and sacrificing what I wanted but it made me who I am today but sometimes you cannot help but to cry !

[@namechange1701]

I hope you heal mentally you deserve to relax

[@gracey5512]

It does take a lot of sacrifice

[@Gotbadbrains]

I was in the same position with my mother but she was a addict she is better now but I feel for this kid.

[@siythevirgo6652]

i am happy you’re mom is okay now.

[@blessthefall7160]

Ellow respect..

[@CrazyPeople62789]

Hey! Mine too

[@JJ-yu6og]

You had it worst than this kid. How are you doing today?

[@ACSaaang]

I hope your life has been blessed because you were a blessing.

[@ToastyCoClothing]

that boy is going to make such a great man

[@meemeelipota]

TOASTYCO. AV he already is a great man

[@marinaproger2324]

Yes he is. But we, as a society, need to reach out and prop him up. Not offer meaningless praise and prayers. Actual concrete soutuons for his problems. It can go either way. He can lose his shit.. many adults in his situation would... or go on to be the best man he can be. If we lose this child it's on us, collectively as a people, we must do better.

[@chirastewart5682]

This child has amazing character full of patience and love.The Most High see's all you do! May he continue to keep you and your family. Hang in there mom!

[@blazzing_fury2425]

For people wondering why these kids aren't more open about their situation, many are concerned about being taken away from their families as many of these situations, the family really can't care for the child (let alone the situation being reversed)

[@AngieMusicArt]

blaZzinG_FurY yup! One of my friends saw this happening to me and encoded me to run away.. that’s not the answer but she was convinced things weren’t going to get better; and they didn’t

[@ShanelleL3V3]

What an incredible young man taking care of his family .

[@PositiveWordMeditation]

These teenagers are so strong, god bless them. There needs to be programs in place for these families. 😢😢

[@boxertest]

The young man has a big burden at such a young age. But he has the heart to match, I hope vice paid him for his story.

[@TretelIngram]

he probably feels guilt even if he thinks of doing something for himself.

[@ddubfan]

I'm guess you're right and that's very very sad for a 15 year old to feel that way.

[@veronica213LA]

He plays football its good he has that he cud be free for a moment n vent in his threapy . bless this sweet boy

[@xz4409]

Tre Ingram jerking?

[@xoxogemvenus]

You always do. things are better for me and I hope they get better for him but the guilt is there...you become so selfless it’s insane.

[@TheKentanthony]

It gets better. You spend half of your life and realize you lost alot and go into depression.. just like my cousin...

[@mariadams542]

now this, ladies and gentlemen, is true responsibility.

[@albertoortega8510]

I just sent The Ellen Show an email with his story and nominated him for deserving person in need.

[@meowolf4750]

Albert Ortega coo coo

[@joannap2998]

That's amazing I hope he gets on!!!

[@mickiddymichael924]

That kid deserves to be/do anything he wants when he gets older. It's kids like this that will shape our nation into what it could be.

[@agonleed3841]

Mickiddy Michael this family is lucky. Think about the 15yr olds in the hood who must do the same thing. And have no help. Born into a world, not of his choice, but in a city where things aren't readily available...not his choice. Then have to do whatever to make sure siblings and momma get help to eat, live, enjoy just a smidge of life......we say they CHOOSE to deal with gangs and drugs, but those were the only people around to make sure he got what was needed. Had he been born in this area like these people, he'd be just like this kid. Cause he'd have better surrounding opportunity. Not devaluing this video and their life. Just want to spread THOUGHT. Maybe eliminate some of these ignorance and prejudice thoughts

[@agonleed3841]

Sudhir Raghu the location may look worse, but you have to see these hoods up close and in person. The complaint is that most of them ended up being no better than shanty towns and brothels. But I see what you mean.

[@wanefelicia8779]

Mickiddy Michael stop thinking like such a statist ... embrace freedom, kid ✌

[@ariannaluna3009]

That baby taking care of his mama ... 😭😞💙

[@ChristineLouisxoforlife]

Omg I went to middle school with this kid, he was such a ball of energy you would of never guessed.

[@mm-ix6fg]

Are you being fr

[@shawnbordeaux1020]

That’s awesome

[@eduardoe9295]

@Marie Williams well, you never know

[@AL-wi6wl]

@T TY I talk like that and I'm 15 🤷🏻‍♀️. the way you talk has nothing whatsoever to do with the age that you have.

[@Spidieder]

lil mochi you talk like a moron, not an older person. “With the age that you have” nice one.

[@chowder125]

Almost brought tears to my eyes. I wish them all the best.

[@Tata-iu3fy]

chowder125 my eyes are watering. I'm not sure what that means?

[@papanabalaram]

My father passed away when I started working at 21, now I am 30. Don't be sad, don't be depressed. I am happy today in good position. When life takes something from you, life gives you back. Be patient.

[@amberlucille8445]

Aww bless that young man, he's got a heart of gold

[@ABEL-cd2sp]

Gold? Oh honey please, he has a heart of diamonds!

[@MyaJ451]

MS is no joke. Her son is so handsome and is going to be a great man. Much respect for him and his family ❤️

[@Livetoeat171]

Amyah Johnson what does his physical appearance have to do with anything?!!

[@Getitgirlllll4717]

He really is! He is a great young man

[@luissanchez-fb1oq]

Suck him up smh

[@anonymousone9837]

@@Livetoeat171 I knew someone like you was going to have a problem with her giving him a compliment. People can say anything nice anymore without someone having an issue. Smh

[@myaholmes4286]

Amyah Johnson Yeah ms isn’t a joke but it’s not a reason to sit on your ass and not help out, look at all the other people surviving with ms, they’re nothing compared to this women, this women is lazy, and that’s it, her words and emotions are insincere

[@javierfuentes5382]

Bless that kid and all the ones that are going through the same things what goes around comes around they will have a better life with more time guaranteed

[@spacediof]

Makes me not want to complain about little trivial things in my life. Bless him!!

[@ivoryfyall3548]

Romae Daley Amennn❤

[@franscameraroll]

As a person who grew up the same way, you are allowed to feel bad about thibgs, no matter how little they are.

[@tanyaak9382]

His teachers should be shown this! He is not lazy!!

[@annastyles1499]

i can definitely relate on him. i'm also 15 years old and i'm doing the same thing for almost 3 years when my grandfather had stoke (he's the one who took care for me and my sister since we were young because both of my parents work.) i cook for our lunch and dinner and i also clean the house. sometimes i felt bad for myself because i see my classmates having fun while i'm at home doing chores that i'm assigned with. i struggled with depression for years but my family and friends are my inspirations to continue life. i'm very thankful that i have them.

[@sydniowlboy7738]

I have a similar problem I am 13 and have a mom in a wheelchair she cannot walk by herself I also have a 4 year old brother. My life sometimes feels like like a cycle that never ends. Wake up get myself ready, get my brother ready, get my mom up get me and my bro to school come home cook dinner and clean. Repeat. And I do it not because I want too but because like the boy in the video said it won’t get done. So sometimes I feel like I’m missing out on my childhood but at other times I feel like I’m on top of the world getting the opportunity to enter reality early and hopefully succeed in life💕

[@vincent7293]

And you call yourself *Random Girl* ? You're not anyone you're special.

[@PoTommyPo]

Random Girl The hard work sure shows in your maturity and articulation. I could never even express myself in a comment nearly as well as you when I was 13. Your continued dedication and hard work will pay off, and you are an angel for your efforts in taking care of your family. I don't even know you, yet I'm proud of you 😅 good luck

[@shister3701]

Random Girl God bless you.

[@kurtkurt8152]

Take care of,those in need. Give them not only care, but lots of love

[@cv2594]

Keep it up. You are doing a very amazing thing.

[@rickydlp]

I was a teen caregiver unexpectedly at 15 when my step dad left my mom and she fell into a deep depression. He's absolutely right in saying "cause if I don't do it, it won't get done. Had to start working, raising sister and taking care of bro. Nothing really out there to help. Props to these kids! My step dad left my mom at

[@dewivangreuningen5494]

Me too. My stepdad split with my mom and I have to take care of her she has diabetes with a lil sister . My main priority in life is them. Your not alone

[@TheAphrodita]

The kid is great no doubt. Dad is also a super hero. He works two jobs and stayed with his family to provide and support anyway he can. I noticed how the schools had a support system for the kids to be able to express their feelings and kind of have an emotional to go place. Maybe he thinks his teachers don’t care but someone noticed and referred him to the program.

[@HannahBananerz14]

they should start a go fund me for medical bills!

[@saultzwtheking1955]

Take action and start one! 1 impact can lead to another.

[@MarkSkids]

E begging is not a solution to all of these problems. It needs to start with the governments and local authorities.

[@blackswanvante]

Saultz w/ the king it’s better when family or close friends start it not random strangers.

[@shidcat9322]

Jonathan is actually a hero

[@questionablepro2468]

I'm doing the same thing since 14 and I know how exactly how it feels especially with the teachers but thankfully I had only one teacher that refused to listen and others that helped me

[@Jessica-ce3mv]

He’s going to be an amazing husband one day. Ladies, you want a guy who takes care and loves his mother. A man like that will care and love for you. God bless this young man 💜

[@AngieMusicArt]

Jessica I hope he finds someone who has the love and passion to care for his needs as well.

[@queenbeyonce1538]

God bless this family 😞💗

[@tytube3001]

God's more interest in priests

[@sainthood--saint1454]

Can we just take the time to appreciate the fact that Teens like him exist and are able to do jobs that we adult deem below us or a responsibility unfit for our so called calibur, This dude is a legend and deserves respect wherever he goes.

[@vaportrails999]

Both parents, two brothers and two sisters got sick on me. Ive been helping them for years, it's extremely stressful and help isn't as easy to get. I feel for any kid/adult having to care for loved ones and taking a larger role for family.

[@irmagarcia7335]

vaportrails999 that’s so hard! Kuddos to you. 💓💓

[@josabellv1066]

You're an amazing human, blessings are on its way man !!! Keep doing great things and being inspiring

[@rhadenstanislas117]

vaportrails999 need someone to talk to ...I'm here

[@PeaceNLiebe]

Everyone thinks you end up coming out such a great person by growing up this way. His work ethic might be great but the emotional neglect and lack of normal childhood + adult responsibilities at such a young age is the magic formula for psychological disorders as an adult. I was in this role and ended up dating and attracting friends / partners who were users and always needed “help.” Aka narcissists and codependency. Life is hell after getting out of the home like this because you haven’t even explored or experienced things you should have. All you know is to put someone else’s needs before your own and it’s highly likely you move back in to continue being a salve to the family.

[@xoxogemvenus]

Caroline 🙌🙌 you’re right. I grew up just like him and I was a magnet for users and narcissists but thankfully I met someone who showed me there are good people out there...it’s okay to question someone when they’re in need, I used to do things without questions and ended up hurt. I’m severely depressed and feel stressed out when people depend on me...sometimes I can’t say no.

[@Lifeisfun84]

I was thinking the same thing ....

[@michaelgonzalez7500]

Life is what you make it, my friend. there is no such thing as a "normal childhood" anymore.

[@WoahitsSitlaly]

Currently back home and taking care of everyone in my situation.

[@JayJay-ig6tp]

Well you shouldn't be ashamed of having a good heart I'm sorry people took advantage of you

[@miindlove9699]

omg this broke my heart this 15 y/o is already a man he deserves the best I wish him nothing but the best, God bless him! I cried

[@PureHeavenlySultan]

Johnathan will be a greater man, and respectful citizen then those who are coddled and pampered, and given material things all the time, and anything they want.

[@Djoodibooti]

PureHeavenlySultan So anything short of taking care of five people at the age of fifteen, is considered being coddled and pampered? Tell your high horse to hit the hey, and do the same.

[@jairoperez323]

He is force to become a man at a young age not by choice but by circumstance may god bless him and his family, stay strong Jonathan 👍🏽

[@draco2sace]

Damn this makes me thankful for everything I have. This kid is a true legend and he deserves all the good coming towards him. Blesss up bro

[@francesca2610]

In England we have a charity called young carers that helps children who have siblings or parents with disabilities/special needs. The program funds special projects and events for these kids. I'm so grateful for them they've helped my family, makes me appreciate where I live so much more.

[@moirad6632]

get this boy on ellen

[@Rpzzz]

It’s the people like this who need Govt assistance that don’t get it, damn shame.

[@aaryannasmith3630]

I agree..

[@erinpingel]

I actually cried while watching this he’s such an amazing boy I love him

[@michellemann6362]

I cried also. This breaks my heart. The Lord will bless him.

[@abdunur5593]

And I complain about going to the store for my mother?

[@tiffaniimarie1349]

Abdu Nur same 😂😭

[@asiancarlos8354]

Same

[@danielruzz7604]

Lazy asses

[@dekuallforone3514]

At least they are honest

[@shanafehr]

Ikr... We suck

[@juanlopez478]

You the reason why your family is in place my boy .... your father and you are the back bone...... God has many blessings coming your way

[@jimmymckinney5496]

Much love for this kid! The blessing in disguise is that this kid is learning a valuable lesson about love and kindness that many kids do not get when they're spoiled and have everything handed to them on a silver platter. Hope he moves on to do wonders in this world.

[@TheHighHorse]

This guy will go far in life. All his hard work and love that he puts into his family will definitely be rewarded in the long run. Stay strong brother, life will get better. Karma and the heavens are definitely keeping eye and keeping track.

[@pamelasylvain8568]

Amen

[@anthonygalvan7934]

This young man should be an example to all kids struggling in life or not. There are other things that are more important in life than the most likes or the freshest clothes like love for others ahead of yourself. Great segment incredible young man

[@on2wheels378]

MS is rough. My sister in law was diagnosed at 28. She is now 54 and she went from playing tennis twice a week to wheelchair bound. It's heartbreaking to witness the deterioration of a loved ones ability to move. If someone set up a go fund me, I would donate. I have to say, I am a very stoic person but seeing this brings emotions in my eyes and throat. Makes me want to try harder in helping my sister in law and brother..

[@frediciapeters1259]

On 2Wheels man thats tough sorry to hear that.

[@AshhhVanilla]

only 15 but he's the realest boy I know

[@scottyjay80]

This young man is more of a man then most grown men. Very encouraging to see this his father HAS to be proud of him.

[@giveupndie4559]

Why do I see him as an amazing football player in the future🤷‍♀️

[@ItsMe-yb7ud]

I see an outstanding person and its future don't just put a label because labels fail he's a million times more than a label that's an outstanding young person then I feel everyone should model

[@albertledesma5173]

Why because he’s black?

[@delaneyjones8040]

i see an amazing movie in the making

[@59PopTartz]

Albert Ledesma he’s Hispanic ...

[@nuyorican70brooklyn30]

What a GREAT young man - respect!!!

[@puertoricanprincess6466]

God bless this little boy. He’s gonna be such a independent young man when he gets older and is gonna be an amazing father to his kids and a amazing husband to his wife 💓

[@RebelleGameOfficial]

Damn. Much respect for this kid for handling life like it is. He's going places

[@jhannanieto3081]

I am 15 and my mother also has MS it is hard to care for her. Unfortunately my mothers case is worse. She can't walk she has gone completely paralysed from her waist down. So i have to cook taker her a shower Cath her (use a tube to get her urine out) and help her take all her pills. I also have to take care of my 2 year old nephew alone, and deal with school. I do not complain about nothing i just help as much as i can. I have a connection with this kid in so many ways.

[@keethkeith1989]

You made alot of horrible spelling mistakes so thats a dead give away you're lying

[@jhannanieto3081]

Believe what you want. But i know what i have been thru and what i am still going thru. Ive been called a Lair my whole life cause of this. But i do not see how miss spelling words make me a Lair

[@Fizzypopization]

I know I'm just a stranger, but I've been there. I was a teen caregiver and now I'm sick trying to not do that to my own kids. I know how hard it is, you're an amazing person. Know you're doing your best.

[@laurencameron3150]

keeth keith LMFAO! Or maybe English isn’t their first language? Misspelled words doesn’t indicate lying

[@manitv5656]

keeth keith or maybe it’s a clear indication that she is telling the truth. You know due to the fact that time is being taken away from learning.

[@ariel4062]

This young man is a real man!! Not only that he is a lessing/ angel, but also inspiration to stay strong and focus!!!

[@jdredwine7224]

I can relate. I lost most of my young life to take care of my mother. Life has unexpected turns.

[@abuadel9129]

JD Redwine "heaven is beneath your mother's feet" by: prophet Muhammad Yeah you lost a part of your life that you could have used to go have fun and party with your friends but you have gained some thing far greater and I want you to know that I appreciate you taking care of her.

[@llxmalvadaxll8379]

Keep your head up love 💪💙

[@SheisB515]

abu adel I love this comment ❤

[@amaryllisbrooke8098]

+Vibrant Hues same I like it.

[@cholemak7636]

This will eventually either make him tougher or break him!

[@vanaelchapo]

I take care of my sick grandfather and sometimes o can’t even deal with that myself so this kid is a real hero

[@forme3h]

I feel him. I did the same but started work when was 16 to help my family financially and physically, it involves emotionally and mentally as well....

[@Dasloth92]

Its truly fucked that the system cant do anything to support people/ family's in need like this (in regards to healthcare/ financial assistance). Its as if theyre saying "oh youre poor, but not poor enough for us to give you even the slightest assistance that probably wouldnt even help anyway". This poor kid shouldnt have to take on such a burden at his age, but damn is he strong to be able to do it. I feel for him, and truly hope that the positive energy he is exerting into the world comes back around to reward him in a grand way.

[@FUNKYEYESHADOW]

Samuel Rexroat shit like this happens all the time I make to much to get help with Heathcare but not enough to get a good insurance company I have the one worst one lol and the guy I work with ain't even a U.S Citizen and he can get help with heath insurance and makes more then me and he has good heath insurance LMAO

[@Indigo2H311]

Samuel Rexroat honestly I was in a shelter and the shelter wouldn’t let us bring food in or cook it was a small room with a cafeteria like a school and u had to eat at 7:30 Am 12:pm and 7pm and my boyfriend had a job to save up for the apartment we have today but they were telling us we could not get food stamps or Medicaid because he made to much money a month which was $800 and the most u can make a month to recieve public assistance is $650 and I went to school all day and he would work so we couldn’t eat the food they ever gave out like he had to lower his hours so we could receive it

[@mangobrasi4127]

I was in his shoes....still am...u keep striving bro u keep going...wen u grow up fast u don't get to experience the kid in you...I hope he got help he's a good kid 💪🏽💯

[@asias3000]

I relate so hard to this shit I barely passed high school and went thru so much bullshit bc everyone thought I was just lazy but I was really taking care my grandparents and younger brother and two baby nieces and it’s hard man like I really couldn’t get shit done and I wanted to so bad but you can’t leave your family ya kno? Gotta make sacrifices in life bro props to him I hope he does well in life

[@angelasmith9758]

This family lives like literally 15 minutes away, is there some way I can help them?

[@justaddwater5311]

angela smith um yes go

[@SkyLeoHeart]

I would suggest just asking them and see from there. Maybe, start a go fund me page for the family,

[@bmkeeks9486]

Did you have any luck finding them?

[@jrod7100]

I am glad the mother has remorse for her son. Some parents just take advantage of their childs youth. God Bless him and his father.