Alberta teen says her family’s hospital experience led her to start initiative to support parents

A Teen’s Compassionate Initiative: Parent Care Packages

In a heartwarming display of empathy and initiative, a 15-year-old student from Alberta has transformed a school assignment into a meaningful real-world project. Caley Wells, a Grade 10 student at Strathcona Tweedsmuir School in Okotoks, is the founder of Parent Care Packages, an initiative designed to provide comfort and essential items to parents and caregivers during their child’s hospital stay. Her mission is simple yet profound: to offer a sense of ease and support during what can be one of the most stressful times in a parent’s life.

The Inspiration Behind Parent Care Packages

The idea for Parent Care Packages was born out of a deeply personal experience. Caley’s younger sister, Zoey, who lives with hydrocephalus, faced a medical emergency that required emergency brain surgery. During this harrowing time, their mother, Lacey, rushed Zoey to the hospital, where she spent long, anxious days by her daughter’s side. Reflecting on this experience, Lacey recalled how she and other parents in the hospital were unprepared for the unexpected stay, often wearing the same clothes for days and lacking basic necessities. Caley, witnessing her mother’s ordeal, was moved to action. She realized how small acts of kindness could make a big difference for families in crisis.

Turning Compassion into Action

With the support of her family and community, Caley began assembling care packages for parents. Each blue bag is thoughtfully filled with toiletries, phone chargers, and even handmade pajamas lovingly sewn by her grandmother. These items may seem simple, but they provide practical comfort and a reminder that others care. The Wells family has already donated 50 of these bags to Alberta Children’s Hospital, with another 50 ready to be distributed. Their ultimate goal is to expand the initiative to hospitals across Canada, ensuring no parent feels alone or unprepared during their child’s hospitalization.

The Power of Community Support

Caley’s project has resonated deeply with her community, which has rallied behind her with enthusiasm and generosity. The response has been overwhelming, with individuals and businesses contributing resources, time, and encouragement. This outpouring of support is a testament to the impact one person can have when they turn their compassion into action. Caley’s story reminds us all of the importance of kindness and the difference we can make in the lives of others.

A Vision for the Future

As Parent Care Packages continues to grow, Caley and her family hope to inspire others to join their mission. They envision a future where no parent has to endure the stress of a child’s hospitalization without the comfort of knowing they are supported. By sharing her story and spreading awareness, Caley aims to create a ripple effect of kindness that reaches far beyond her local community. Her initiative is not just about providing practical items; it’s about reminding families they are not alone during their most vulnerable moments.

A Young Leader’s Legacy

Caley Wells’ journey from a school assignment to a nation-wide movement is a powerful reminder of the impact young people can have when they decide to make a difference. Her story is one of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of kindness. As Parent Care Packages continues to expand, it will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, inspiring others to turn their own challenges into opportunities for good. Caley’s initiative is more than just a collection of care packages; it’s a symbol of the compassion and strength that defines us all.