By: Jagun Quareeb Alabi 

Being a brother or sister to someone with Muscular Dystrophy (MD) feels like walking on a tightrope. On one side is your life, including school, dreams, friends, and your future. On the other side is your sibling, who may need help with walking, bathing, dressing, or just moving around. Some days, it’s exhausting. Some days, you feel guilty for wanting a little space to breathe.

It’s Okay to Admit It’s Hard

Feeling tired or overwhelmed doesn’t make you a bad sibling. Loving your brother or sister doesn’t erase the human part of you that wants some relief and normalcy. It’s okay to admit it’s hard. Saying it out loud doesn’t mean you are ungrateful. It just means you are human, with limits and needs and that is completely normal.

Imagine you’ve been helping your sibling all morning, then you remember you have homework and a big test. You feel like crying, but you try to be strong. That’s normal. That feeling doesn’t mean you don’t love them. It just means you are human

Talk About Roles, Not Sacrifice

You don’t have to carry everything quietly. Your family should hear your voice. Say, “I want to help, but I also need time for my studies and my own life.” Together, figure out who can do what, whether it’s parents, relatives, caregivers. Support should be shared. You are not a machine. You are a person who loves deeply, and love works best when it’s balanced.

Imagine you say, “I can help you with breakfast, but I need 30 minutes to finish my homework first.” Your sibling may be disappointed, but they will also learn patience and understanding and you will keep your energy for both of you.

Your Dreams Still Matter

Being the sibling of someone with a disability does not erase your ambitions. Your dreams of college, scholarships, travels, careers are still yours. They are not betrayal. They are your life. Pursuing them can even honor your family because a strong sibling is not just one who sacrifices endlessly, they also build a future.

Tell them this: “I love you, and I will be there for you, but I also have dreams I need to chase.” That is natural. That is human. That is love balanced with living your life.

Presence Speaks Louder Than Words

Even small, simple acts can mean a lot. Call your sibling when you are away. Send voice notes. Watch a movie together. Listen when they need to talk. Presence is not just about being physically there. It’s about the love, the attention, and the heart you put into every moment.

You Deserve Support Too

Your feelings matter. If the pressure gets too heavy, seek support from friends, teachers, faith leaders, or online sibling groups. Talking about what you feel is not weakness. It is courage. It helps you stay strong on the tightrope, so you can keep walking, keep loving, and keep dreaming.

A Heart That Walks With Love

Being a sibling of someone with MD is not easy, but it is powerful. You are building resilience, love, and hope every day. Every small step you take, every smile you share, and every dream you chase matters. They change lives, not just for your sibling, but for you too.

Share Your Story

If you are a sibling on this tightrope, we want to hear from you. Share your story, your struggles, and your victories in the comment. Reach out to the FFNS support. Tag a sibling warrior. Let’s rise together. Love, hope, and courage are stronger when shared.