I thru hiked at age 18. I had a young friend who also thru hiked at age 18 --- 20 something years after me. I think you can do it but I also "get" your parent's issues. The problem with "partners" is that you have to deal with each other's hiking pace (and other issues) which is why partnerships often fall apart. If you want to private message me and we can coordinate schedules, I'll offer you a shuttle to the trail and I'll hike with you for a day or three -- there will be tons of people starting in March and although February can be colder, I really like the idea of you getting the biggest "jump" you can - maybe even February week 2/3? Anyway, there will be plenty of people and you'll fall naturally into one of many "groups" that will form -- a hiking partner might come out of this but at least you will be able to observe his or her habits and trail pace and determine whether you will actually like going on a long distance hike with whomever it it.