My friends are very involved with their siblings, going on trips and taking pictures for social media. They have things to talk about other than their school life.

I have always kept my relationship with my brother, private. It’s hard for me to understand how they care so deeply for their siblings, whereas for me it feels that there has always been a wall. He’s just someone that lives in the same house as me.

My brother was diagnosed with ADHD and autism in Pre-K. When we were younger, we were inseparable. His condition didn’t matter to me then.

It was never an issue until an argument escalated, and he ended up hitting me. That incident left my mom terrified about what might happen as he grew older, so she separated us.

My experience has never been mentioned outside the four walls of my home.

Staying up until 3 AM to tackle algebra has become a taxing routine. I dismiss the strain it causes, acknowledging that his needs take precedence. Sacrifices have become the norm.

When I come out of my room, my mom warns me daily to ‘be careful what you say to him’ to avoid aggravating him, urging me to ‘keep to myself.

I can’t help but think that professional guidance might have maintained the closeness I once felt with my brother.

Our family chose the medical route, but the cost of therapy a service stigmatized in our Hispanic community is too expensive.

Sometimes, I wish they would stop bringing up my brother and his disorders. In Hispanic families, therapy is stigmatized, but I know it has gotten out of our control. I do think talking to other siblings like me would be to ask and see how they feel. I feel like I have gotten used to it. I shouldn’t be used to being forgotten.

I know they must prioritize him because of the way he is. It feels lonely. Connecting to other people would be helpful. I have lost the ability to have a close connection with anyone in my house.

I have grown up fast, finding solace and freedom in school, which has become my haven from the complexities of my home life.

I am aware of the future that awaits me, one where the responsibility of caring for my brother will eventually fall into my hands. It’s daunting-but it ignites a sense of purpose within me.