Weight of Silence

In The Weight of Silence, a gripping memoir, the author bravely unveils the hidden truths of growing up in a family held captive by addiction. Raised by parents whose volatile relationship was fueled by alcohol, the author's world was turned upside down at age 12 when her mother's drug addiction escalated, while her sister spiraled down a similarly destructive path, and she endured the harsh bullying of her peers. She navigates a childhood steeped in chaos, unspoken pain, and denial.

Once extremely close to her mother, the author's bond begins to fray during adolescence, a time marked by her parents' bitter divorce and her mother's escalating addiction. As her father withdraws, using her as a pawn in their emotional warfare, the weight of silence becomes suffocating. Torn between loyalty and the need for truth, she learns to suppress her voice, leading to a lifelong battle with codependency and the haunting belief that she is never enough.

Years later, after the loss of both parents, the author finally finds the courage to confront the silence that has haunted her for so long. The Weight of Silence promises a powerful exploration of family addiction, grief, and the courageous journey toward self-acceptance. Will she discover the strength to break free from the shadows and reclaim herself and her voice?

About the Author

Melinda Velasquez is an ICF Master Certified Life Coach, Trainer, and Speaker with a graduate degree in Organization Development. With over a decade of experience in training and development, she specializes in trauma-informed care for mental health, foster care, and community-based organizations. Now working independently, she empowers individuals and groups to enhance emotional intelligence and pursue growth and healing-principles that have profoundly shaped her own journey and the lives of her clients.