2025 Caregiver of the Year Award Winner: Tanya Phillips

Caregiver: Tanya Phillips

She’s caring for: Her son, Tristan

Winner of: Caregiver of the Year

When it comes to caregiving, most people might not think of themselves as a hero. For a dedicated mom like Tanya Phillips, she reserves that word for her son, Tristan. Yet, her story shows just how much strength, love, and heroism she puts into caregiving every single day.

“I have NEVER nominated myself for anything,” she shares. “I’m not so sure I would even consider myself a ‘hero.’ I’m just a mom and I rarely, if ever, ask for help.”

Her son, Tristan, is a true inspiration. Born with spina bifida, he’s been paralyzed from birth. Over the years, he’s faced more than 60 hospitalizations, surgeries, diagnoses, and procedures. Tanya is right there alongside him, offering unwavering support as she balances life as a single working mother.

While Tristan may worry about his mom’s ability to help him, especially with the physical demands of caregiving, she reassures him, saying, “The bigger you get, the stronger I get.” But as much as she’s kept up with his growth over the years, she admits that age is now catching up to her.

Tristan, at 26, is now a grown man, and his care needs are more significant than ever. “I would love to be considered for this award,” she says, “because the prize would definitely help with the purchase of an accessible vehicle. We’ve never owned one, and the need is greater than ever.”

A Hero’s Journey of Love and Sacrifice Tanya’s life isn’t one most would consider easy, but her love for her son is clear in every moment of her day. Despite the physical challenges and emotional toll, she keeps going with grace, humor, and strength.

Her story is a reminder that caregiving is often an unspoken labor of love, and that every caregiver deserves recognition for the sacrifices they make.

Congratulations, Tanya!