24/09/2026
✨️ My son and I were on the bus heading for an appointment. We sat right at the front, close to the driver 💙
As the journey went on, I noticed something wasn't right.
The driver was quietly talking to himself. Then he started missing passengers' bus stops.
The first time, he apologised.
The second time, he apologised again.
By the third time, instead of apologising, he lashed out in frustration.
It was obvious he wasn't himself.
He looked completely exhausted, as though he was carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders.
We stayed on the bus until the final stop, which was where we needed to get off.
We were already running late because of roadworks, but I couldn't bring myself to walk away without saying something.
I gently reminded him that he was responsible for so many lives every time he got behind the wheel and asked if he could consider taking a little more time off to look after himself.
His response broke my heart.
"We haven't slept in days," he said. "My wife's hand is broken."
I asked what had happened.
Then he quietly said, "Our son is autistic. He's doing well, but these past few weeks have been really hard.
I've already been off work for two weeks and only just came back. I'm worried about my wife."
In that moment, my heart sank.
As an autism parent myself, I understood that look of exhaustion. The sleepless nights.
The emotional strain. The feeling of trying to keep everything together when you're running on empty.
We talked for a few minutes. I encouraged him, reminded him that his wellbeing matters too, and gently spoke about the importance of keeping himself and his passengers safe.
Before we left, we said a prayer together.
This journey of autism can be incredibly difficult. Many parents push themselves far beyond their limits because life doesn't stop when you're exhausted.
But this was also a reminder that we must take care of ourselves whenever we can.
We are no good to our children or to anyone else if we have nothing left to give.
If you're an autism parent reading this and you're struggling today, please know you're not alone.
Reach out, ask for help, and take a moment to breathe when you can.
If you believe in prayer, please say one for this family tonight. ❤️🙏🏽
