Elena & Jackson

For years, Elena resisted outside help, believing no one could care for Jackson the way she could. But eventually, exhaustion set in and that’s when Rocky Bay stepped in.

“They spent years convincing me to use carers,” she admits. “At first, I thought, ‘no one can do what I do.’ But when I finally accepted help, it changed everything. Now, Jackson looks forward to his community outings with his support workers, going bowling, swimming, for ice cream or to the airport viewing platform. “He’s treated like a rock star at the hubs,” Elena says proudly. “He loves everyone there and thinks they all work just for him.”

With support from Rocky Bay, Elena has been able to find balance, focus on her other children, and take small moments for herself, even if it is just a few quiet minutes at the end of the day.

For Elena, Carers Week is a reminder that she is not alone.

“It’s about knowing there are others walking this same path, people who understand,” she says. “We are seen, appreciated and valued. Every smile from our children, every touch or sound, it’s because of us. We make that happen.”

Through it all, she’s discovered her own strength. “I’m a juggler, a list maker, an organiser, a multitasker. My calendar looks like a bag of Skittles with all the colours,” she jokes. “But I’ve also learned I’m resilient. I can roll with whatever comes our way. I might have a pity party for one now and then, but I always get up and keep going.”

When asked about the most rewarding parts of being a carer, Elena doesn’t hesitate.

“Oh gosh, so many moments,” she says. “Jackson’s first shaky steps in his walker. The first time he said ‘I love you’ on his communication device. His smiles every morning. The joy on his face when he sees his favourite people. Watching him feed himself for the first time after years of trying. Those tiny moments mean everything.”

For Elena, these aren’t just milestones, they are miracles.

“It’s not about big achievements. It’s those small, in-between moments, the glimmers that show how far we have come. We celebrate everything Jackson, big or small.”

Elena’s other children have grown up alongside Jackson’s care journey and it’s shaped who they are.

“They’ve never known anything different. Jackson is their brother, full stop. They love him unconditionally and are fiercely protective. They are his voice, his playmates, his biggest cheerleaders. We are a package deal, siblings and family first, always. I am proud of all my children, and I hope they are proud of me to.”

Her message to fellow carers is simple but powerful.