Omarion Calloway began caregiving at age ten, memorizing seizure protocols, changing diapers, and bathing his grandmother while his peers focused on schoolwork and play. Now, he has channeled that experience into More Than Survival: A Guideline for Young Caregivers, a free resource available at www.MoreThanSurvivalGuide.com, designed to support the estimated 5.4 million children in the United States who provide care for family members.
Calloway's childhood involved responsibilities far beyond his years, including scrubbing sheets, cooking meals, and interpreting non-verbal cues from his uncle, who could no longer speak clearly. He recalls, "I learned his code. A glance, a sigh, even the twitch of his hand became language. I had to know what he needed before he could ask." This experience reflects the reality for many young caregivers, particularly Black and Brown youth, who often remain invisible within systems that fail to provide adequate support.
The guide addresses critical gaps in recognition and resources for young caregivers, who frequently face academic challenges and social isolation despite their immense responsibilities. Calloway notes, "Young caregivers are invisible. Nobody asks what it does to a child to spend their days lifting adults, managing medications, then show up to school like nothing happened." This invisibility stems from a healthcare system that lacks affordable home care and respite services, forcing families to rely on children as untrained caregivers.
More Than Survival blends personal narrative with practical guidance, covering topics such as self-care while caregiving, mental health awareness, and maintaining personal aspirations. Calloway emphasizes, "These aren't chores. They're life-or-death responsibilities." The guide includes strategies like music, journaling, and connection as lifelines for sustainability, alongside encouragement for pursuing scholarships and opportunities despite caregiving burdens.
Calloway's own journey underscores the guide's message: after experiencing homelessness and bullying, he earned over $1.3 million in scholarships and is now preparing to graduate from New York University in 2026. His upcoming initiative, WeRiseLoud, aims to amplify caregiver voices and advocate for systemic change to prevent children from bearing adult caregiving responsibilities alone.
