When There’s No Break in Sight:

Lately, things have been heavy.

My son — a young adult with complex disabilities — has been struggling with aggressive behaviors. Because he’s nonverbal, he can’t express what he’s feeling in words. But as many of you know, behaviors are communication. And I’m doing everything I can to listen… even when it comes in the form of a hit or a meltdown.

These past few weeks have left me physically bruised and emotionally drained. I try to show up with strength and compassion, but the truth is — it’s hard. It’s unfair. I want to just be his mom. But I don’t have that luxury. I’m a single parent and a full-time caregiver. And carrying both roles is often too much for one person.

On top of that, we’re juggling a new heart diagnosis, specialist appointments, MRIs, EEGs, and new medications, along with an infected tooth to the nerve. We even had to cancel a short, much-needed trip — just four days to try and breathe again — because of his pain, it’s no longer safe to travel with the behavior issues we’re facing. And I know many of you understand that — when there’s no break in sight. No backup plan. No village to call. No one stepping in for even a night because, frankly, they’re scared.

People say, “I wish there was something I could do.” But there is — and often, it’s just not something they’re willing or able to offer. And I get it — people have to protect their own energy. But sometimes, I wish I could put myself first — just once.

This is why I created Holistic Caregiver Wellness — not from a place of perfection or having all the answers, but from this very space of overwhelm, resilience, and truth.

As a single parent and full-time caregiver to a disabled adult, I live this life — the exhaustion, the decisions, the heartbreak, the strength. I know the chronic stress that builds up in the mind and body. I know how hard it is to find a moment of peace. And that’s why I’ve made it my mission to walk alongside other caregivers like you.

Through Holistic Caregiver Wellness, I partner with fellow caregivers to address stress at its roots — offering holistic solutions, practical suggestions, emotional guidance, and gentle support to help you find reprieve. Even if it’s just a breath. A moment of calm. A flicker of joy in your day. That matters.

So, to the caregivers who feel forgotten, isolated, or completely burned out — I see you. I am you. You are not alone here.

You're doing more than most could ever imagine. You're holding it all together when everything feels like it’s falling apart. And even when the system doesn’t show up for you — I hope this space can.

This is a place where your voice is heard. Your struggle is valid. And your healing matters.

With you on the journey,

Penny Lepley , Founder, Holistic Caregiver Wellness