My son was born with a congenital abnormality. He has undergone multiple surgeries throughout his life and is also diagnosed with autism. Balancing full-time work, as a single parent, while also caring for him was an uphill battle, leading to an accumulation of medical bills that were drowning me financially. Ultimately, I had to modify our lives drastically - working part-time and applying for disability - just to be present for his medical needs. No full time job would accommodate me; I tried and gave up trying. 

Currently, student loans can be forgiven if the borrower is disabled. However, this provision does not extend to those who are primary caretakers of individuals with disabilities. This oversight leaves many in a precarious financial situation as they juggle caregiving responsibilities alongside mounting debt.

Accordingly, we urge Congress to consider extending student loan forgiveness provisions to include those who are primary caretakers of children/individuals with disabilities. This change would provide much-needed relief for families like mine across the country.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), approximately 8.4 million people in the United States provide care to an individual with a mental or emotional health issue. This does not even include medical disabilities. These caregivers spend an average of 32 hours per week providing unpaid care – equivalent in effort and commitment as a full-time job. Some require 24/7 care. 

By acknowledging their sacrifice and extending student loan forgiveness provisions accordingly, we can alleviate some financial burden these families face daily while ensuring they continue their crucial role without added stress from educational debt.

Please sign this petition urging Congress members towards this necessary change that will positively impact millions of American lives.