What to do when a loved one is shaken by a terrible diagnosis and an expensive treatment falls upon the entire family? An 81-year-old grandma found an unusual answer to these difficult questions on YouTube.
Why is grandma playing Minecraft? When 17-year-old Jack Self was diagnosed with cancer in 2024, it was clear to his grandma Sue Jacquot that she had to do something. She let her grandchildren show her Minecraft. At first, it was just to spend more time with the boys. However, this evolved into something bigger after a few months.
The 81-year-old woman started the YouTube channel GrammaCrackers to share her adventures in Minecraft with the world. Among her videos was a link to gofundme.com. There, Jack’s brother Austin set up a campaign to raise money for the horrendous treatment costs.
One can hardly believe it, but the graphics have improved over the years – like with this update last year:
“We were all completely stunned”
GrammaCrackers is a success! Sue Jacquot is doing fantastically well with many viewers. Although her channel currently only has 11 videos, she already has 153,000 subscribers. Her most successful video has over 560,000 views.
Even more importantly: a significant amount of money has been raised through the channel. The GoFundMe campaign has brought in just over $35,000. This was supplemented by regular YouTube donations ranging from $1 to $5,000.
Austin Self told CNN (via local12.com): “We were all completely stunned that she managed to understand the game, and from there everything took off.” Jack added: “It was just very touching to see how kind everyone was to me and my grandma.”
And the best news last: The treatment was successful for Jack and he is cancer-free today.
Here is the first video from GrammaCrackers:
How is the community reacting? With many warm and heartfelt words.
- TaitonVisessuk writes on YouTube: “The fact that she is 81 years old and produces great content for her grandson’s cancer treatment is simply beautiful.”
- MashBro explains on YouTube: “My grandmother helped me overcome my cancer when I was a child. My mother was hardly ever there for most of my life, but my grandmother would have done something like that for me. I know your grandson appreciates that.”
- mrgee8447 celebrates on YouTube: “That’s how I see myself in 40 years.”
Did you already know? A Japanese organization regularly holds an esports tournament for seniors. The winner from December 2025 is a full 18 years older than the 74-year-old finalist. You can read all about it here: At 92 years old, a grandma wins her first esports tournament, takes down her 18 years younger opponent
