I was sick with several problems the whole time my son grew up. He is 33 now. He was helpful from age 2! Just getting me something to drink, etc. He has grown to be a very sweet person that is very helpful to his family, and new family, inlaws etc. Loves animals also, that is another thing I wanted him to grow up to have, love of pets. He did just fine. Life has ups and downs and they can learn that helping and loving each other is important.