In an era when many postal carriers pass by with earbuds in, Tiffany still brings a personal touch, pausing to greet neighbors and share a friendly word. Originally from Brooklyn, she built her life on resilience, raising three children as a single mother. One of her daughters was born with learning and language disabilities and later diagnosed with autism. Through discipline, structure, and consistent love, Tiffany taught all three of her children the value of hard work, accountability, and compassion.

Today she is married to a supportive and encouraging partner, and her daughter is now 24 years old. She works full time at a daycare and is preparing to move into her first apartment. Earlier this year, Tiffany helped her daughter connect with a program that offers advanced job skills, affordable housing resources, and apartment search assistance.

Life took an unexpected turn when Tiffany sustained a work-related injury. Accustomed to being on the move, recovery brought frustration, delays with Workman’s Comp, and a longing to return to the job she loves. Rather than dwelling on setbacks, she embraced new activities such as learning to crochet and stayed open to support from her TCARE caregiver specialist.

“I didn’t realize how tired I was until someone finally asked how I was doing.”

As her recovery continued, new challenges emerged. Her son moved back home after a breakup, she began experiencing symptoms of peri-menopause, and she struggled with feelings of being taken for granted.

Drawing on strategies suggested by her specialist such as vent journaling, meditation, and crafting, Tiffany created boundaries, prioritized self-care, and made time for joy. Outings with friends and a girls’ trip with family brought laughter, connection, and a renewed sense of balance.

These efforts led to measurable progress. Her depression score moved from medium to low, her stress levels decreased, and her overall burden lightened as she found ways to support her daughter while maintaining her own well-being.

Before long, Tiffany will be back on her postal route, greeting neighbors with her signature Brooklyn accent and wearing a pair of stylish owl-print compression socks. She is a reminder that caregivers also deserve care, structure, and moments that are just for themselves.