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Caring for Each Other: The Stevens Family
Produced in partnership with Women Photograph, our "Caring for Each Other" photo series aims to shine a light on the experiences of unpaid caregivers who often go unseen as they navigate one of the most complex jobs of all.
Patty and Willie Stevens now raise their two great-nephews, a role they never anticipated taking on as they entered their 60s. But when the twins asked to come to live with them, Patty and Willie said yes in an instant and welcomed them with open arms.
Photo by Tailyr Irvine for Pivotal Ventures
Patty Stevens, 62, helps her great-nephew, Thomas, 13, with basketball drills at their home on the Flathead Reservation in Montana. When Thomas and his twin brother, Talon, asked if they could live with Patty and her husband, Willie, 63, the couple let go of their vision for their 60s, and prepared to raise another set of teenagers. Thomas and Talon are part of a basketball league that has state-wide tournaments, all summer, and Patty and Willie help them practice and travel to games.
Photo by Tailyr Irvine for Pivotal Ventures
Patty walks a horse that escaped through the back fence of her family’s property. That evening, in between watching out for horses and the twins, Patty was preparing a large meal for a youth group she oversees.
Photo courtesy of Pivotal Ventures
Patty allows Thomas and his friend, Jhett, to use the four-wheeler by themselves for the first time. The boys will use the vehicle to help them get around the property while they do their evening chores, which include cleaning the sweat lodge and replenishing the wood supply. While they work, Patty and Willie will teach them the sweat lodge creation story.
Photo by Tailyr Irvine for Pivotal Ventures
Patty and Thomas leave to pick up Patty’s granddaughter, Erica, 23, from work. Erica also lives with the Stevenses, along with Thomas and Talon.
Photo by Tailyr Irvine for Pivotal Ventures
Patty teaches Thomas and Jhett about the natural surroundings at their home.
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