A Utah mother of four young children, two of whom have diabetes, called 911 on herself after reaching breaking point earlier this year. Kylie Grimes, 32, was caring for her children alone one evening when her husband was working late. One of her youngest children began choking on soil from a houseplant and had also eaten an insect repellent stick.
Grimes called poison control and broke down, telling the operator: 'I can't keep him alive.' She then called 911, saying she 'just needed relief' and 'a minute to collect myself.' Police and paramedics arrived and knelt with her as she cried and vented. Grimes said she never considered suicide or harming her children, but wanted 'an out' from the constant stress.
Two weeks later, she shared doorbell camera footage of the incident on TikTok, initially fearing judgment. Instead, the video amassed over 5 million views and 12,500 supportive comments. Many viewers shared their own experiences of caregiver burnout, and a 911 dispatcher praised her for reaching out.
Grimes said she hopes her story helps other caregivers be open about their struggles. 'We have to help these parents that come after us,' she told TODAY. Experts advise calling 911 for emergencies, but say if unsure, it is better to err on the side of caution.
