4x4x48 Challenge: How One Young Carer's Story Inspires Hope and Support

4x4x48 Challenge: How One Young Carer’s Story Inspires Hope and Support

From Friday, 28th June until Sunday, 30th June, MYTIME held their first 4x4x48 fundraising event in Poole. This challenge, involving running 4 miles every 4 hours for 48 hours, was extended to 50 miles this year to stand in solidarity with the young carers who provide more than 50 hours of care each week. One participant, Alicia, a young adult carer, shared her inspiring story, highlighting the importance of our cause and the impact these events can have.

Alicia’s Background: A Story of Resilience

Alicia’s journey as a young carer started when she was just eight years old. Her mother had a severe mental health crisis and was admitted to a psychiatric ward, leaving Alicia with significant responsibilities at a young age. “Since then, she has had issues with her own mental health, and I’ve gone through it with my dad as well,” Alicia said. Her father also faced a mental health crisis, adding to the challenges Alicia had to deal with.

Being a young carer isn’t just about physical tasks; it's also about the emotional toll it takes. Alicia explained, “It’s putting someone else’s emotions before your own.” Despite these hardships, Alicia was determined not to let her circumstances define her future. “I want to go and do something for myself. I don’t want to end up in the same situation as both of my parents. I want to be able to say, you know what, I’m the one that’s changed the cycle and to prove everyone wrong.” And this is central to MYTIME’s mission: inspiring and empowering young carers, offering emotional relief through event participation, helping them recognise their strengths, and achieving their aspirations through action.

The Event: Running for a Cause

For Alicia, participating in the 4x4x48 event was a deeply meaningful experience. “It’s been so lovely, especially where I came in only knowing Dan, MYTIME Level Up Manager, being able to just be a part of the family and see what it’s like down here. Everyone has welcomed me with open arms,” she said. She also joked, "despite being the youngest and shortest in the group", Alicia felt embraced and supported by everyone around her.

The event itself posed significant challenges. “The hardest part has definitely been waking up and going for a run at 2 o’clock in the morning because it’s not something that you feel like you need to do in life,” Alicia admitted. However, the camaraderie and support from her fellow participants made all the difference. “Everyone has been so supportive, and it’s such a morale boost; everyone keeps an eye on each other.”

The Impact: A Lifeline for Young Carers

The 4x4x48 event was about more than just physical endurance; it was about creating a lifeline for young carers. Reflecting on her own experiences, Alicia shared, “The project I went to as a kid, like the activities we got to do, it was the day out, it was that break away from that mental pressure, and I got that time away.” Knowing that the funds raised from the event would provide similar opportunities for other young carers was profoundly meaningful to her. “It’s going to give another child what it did for me, and it means the world.”

Why These Events Matter

Alicia’s story is a powerful reminder of why events like the 4x4x48 are so crucial. The funds raised provide much-needed support and respite for young carers, offering them a break from their daily responsibilities and a chance to enjoy being kids. These events also raise awareness about the challenges young carers face, helping to build a community of support around them.

Conclusion: A Community of Support

The 4x4x48 weekend was a testament to the strength and resilience of young carers like Alicia. Her story underpins the importance of our fundraising efforts and the difference they can make in the lives of young carers. As we continue to raise awareness and funds, Alicia’s journey serves as an inspiration to us all, showing the importance of breaking the cycle and striving for a better future.

MYTIME thanks everyone who participated, donated, and supported the 4x4x48 event. Your contributions are making a significant difference in the lives of young carers, providing them with the support and opportunities they need to thrive. Together, we are building a community that recognises, supports, and celebrates the incredible young carers among us.

Show your support for Alicia and other young carers by donating to Alicia Jones's JustGiving page to support MYTIME Young Carers: Alicia Jones's JustGiving Page.