AN Australind teenager has been selected as a finalist in the 2015 Young People Who Care Awards.
For the last five years, 18-year-old Zachary Reay has cared full time for his grandfather Bill Reay who has diabetes and is frail aged.
But Zachary said he didn’t think twice about taking on the role as his grandfather had taken care of him from the age of 14.
“He took care of me when I needed someone and now I’m returning the favour,” he said.
Zachary is responsible for the cooking, housework and shopping and provides help with showering and dressing and even did it while completing school full time.
He also has a green thumb, enjoying the colours of the flowers he cares for in the garden.
“I didn’t even think I would become a finalist so I don’t know what would make me stand out among the rest of the candidates,” he said.
Mr Reay said Zachary was a blessing around the house, doing chores he can no longer do himself.
“He’s good company and cooks and cleans,” he said.
“Sometimes he talks too much but I’m very proud of him.”
Zach’s nominator, Red Cross’s Stephanie Johnson, described him as “an extraordinary young man with a positive and nurturing attitude who deserves recognition for the amazing care he provides”.
The Young People Who Care Awards recognise exceptional young Western Australians aged between 8 and 18 years, who provide voluntary care to others.
Winners will be announced at the Young People Who Care Awards Ceremony at the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia on Tuesday, December 8.