Steven's Story by Donna Cooper

Steven has been involved with FSF for 3 years. With support from FSF he pursued his dream of obtaining a paid job in a restaurant as well as continuing with volunteer placements.

His self confidence has increased as well as his skills in the kitchen! Steven is learning how to be more independent and how to advocate for himself. With FSF support we have started to help him create a family support circle and to look ahead to the future with perhaps more independence.

A family/ friend support circle takes time, energy and patience to help build and keep going. Our FSF facilitator is there to help us continue to build the support. Steven’s medical issues : hip replacement, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and the health concerns associated with Down syndrome have always impacted his energy and well being.

He is a very sensitive young man who has watched his dad struggle with cancer, depression and diabetes. Presently, he is also watching his grandmother struggle with Alzheimer’s and trying to understand the changes he sees occurring in her.

​Having the support of FSF provides him with someone who walks along side him helping him navigate through the challenges he faces but also run with him and encourage him to reach towards the next goal or step!

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