Press Alert
Date: January 6, 2025
University of Miami Highlights Medical Student‘s Work, Including Research on Caregiving Youth
The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine has published an article featuring medical student Aidan Scagel, M.P.H. ’25, spotlighting his dedication to service, military medicine, and his impactful public health research—including his work with the American Association of Caregiving Youth (AACY).
As part of his M.P.H. capstone project, Scagel, guided by Dr. Julia Belkowitz, M.D., M.P.H., Associate Dean for Student Affairs at the Miller School, focused on the challenges faced by Caregiving Youth—children and teens who care for sick or disabled family members. Their research examined the social, emotional, and academic impacts of caregiving responsibilities and identified pathways for improved support.
“We are grateful to the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine for their support in advancing awareness of Caregiving Youth and Dr. Julia Belkowitz for her dedication to this important work. Aidan Scagel’s research shines a light on the often-overlooked challenges these young caregivers face, and we‘re proud to have been part of his impactful journey.” — Connie Siskowski, RN, Ph.D., Founder, and President of AACY
“This collaboration reflects the growing recognition of the unique needs of Caregiving Youth and the importance of integrating their experiences into broader healthcare and public health conversations. I was pleased to collaborate with Aidan Scagel on this meaningful project and look forward to continuing efforts to support and advocate for these young caregivers.” — Dr. Julia Belkowitz, M.D., M.P.H., Associate Dean for Student Affairs, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
This project is just one example of Aidan Scagel‘s broader commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and serving communities in need, both locally and globally.
Note: Aidan Scagel is expected to graduate from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in May 2025.
About the AACY Caregiving Youth Research Collaborative (CYRC):
The CYRC is a U.S.-focused initiative created to generate interdisciplinary collaboration between researchers and practitioners who are dedicated to advancing knowledge and understanding of Caregiving Youth (also known as young carers) and their families. Founded in 2015 through a collaboration between the AACY Caregiving Youth Institute and researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, today, CYRC brings together academics and other researchers and professionals from universities and organizations across the United States and Canada. Members work to identify research and policy priorities, create vehicles to inform and enhance knowledge among youth professionals, and cultivate partnerships to improve the outlook for Caregiving Youth and their families.
For more information, visit CYRC here.
About the American Association of Caregiving Youth (AACY):
American Association of Caregiving Youth® (AACY), a 501(c)(3) non-profit headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, champions the needs of over 5.4 million young American caregivers aged 18 or younger who provide essential care for chronically ill, injured, elderly, and/or disabled family members. As the leading national voice for Caregiving Youth, AACY raises awareness about this hidden population and is a trusted resource for families, policymakers, educators, and healthcare professionals on the issues Caregiving Youth face, regardless of the care recipient’s diagnosis.
AACY offers a comprehensive approach combining direct support and national advocacy. Locally, they provide direct assistance to middle and high school students through the Caregiving Youth Project. Nationally, its Caregiving Youth Institute (CYI) spearheads C.A.R.E. initiatives focused on Connection, Advocacy, Research, and Education. AACY’s impact extends further through national partnerships and affiliates.