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Triumph Vocational Services On the road to independence A Triumph Vocational Services™ Success Story • May, 2005 Steven is on his way up. He was recently hired at a home supply store in Surrey and he’s now looking forward to living in his own place and a life of financial independence.It’s been a long journey for Steven, 37, who was diagnosed with renal failure at age 18. He received regular dialysis treatments and three years later had his first kidney transplant. Due to complications, his left hip was removed and he required a second kidney transplant. But today, Steven’s health has improved and he’s learned to overcome his disabilities. Step one on the road to independence was a visit to the local Triumph Vocational Services office on the advice of his sister. “They were just awesome. They don’t treat you like a number, they genuinely show they care about you,” he remembers. At Triumph, he took courses on developing memory skills, and assertiveness, and job training. Then they worked with him to find a work experience position at a home supply store. Steven worked at this position for six months and advanced to a salaried job in March, 2004 where he stocks shelves and handles customer relations. Although he has a cane, he finds he can walk better without it. And, he’s learned to be careful at work. “I pick things up properly so I don’t hurt my back.” Working with Triumph and finding a job were just the beginning for Stephen. He’s gone on to take the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System certificate and plans to continue his education. His advice to other people with disabilities who are considering the Triumph program: “Go meet them, I guarantee you’ll feel comfortable. And don’t let your disability get the better of you.” “ They were just awesome. They don’t treat you like a number, they genuinely show they care about you.” Success on your own terms |