Aaron’s story: escaping in the world of cosplay
Aaron, aged 24, provides daily care and support for his mum who lives with multiple significant physical health conditions. He helps with almost every aspect of day‑to‑day life, including cooking, cleaning, shopping, personal care, and supporting her to take part in activities by offering mobility assistance when needed.
As her main carer, Aaron has found it increasingly challenging to balance the demands of caring with his own need for time, independence, and social connection. Aaron has very few opportunities to socialise with friends his own age or take part in activities with other young people who share his interests. Ongoing financial pressures have made this even more difficult.
During a conversation, Aaron shared that he enjoys attending ComicCon events, but has only been able to go once. He explained that he had been unable to create the kind of costume he wanted because of his limited finances. A Time to Live microgrant allowed Aaron to buy a ticket for an upcoming event as well as materials to create his own costume. His local carers' centre has also arranged ongoing support to help ensure Aaron gets regular breaks from his caring role.
Find out more about Time to Live here.
Aaron said
“Now I’ll be able to go to the event, have my own costume, and even make it myself. Making the costume is a break in itself.”