Gaining Employment & Independence

Breanne

Breanne has been involved with SMD for 17 years, since the age of 9 when she and her family began receiving support. She was born with a rare form of muscular dystrophy.

When asked how SMD has supported her over the years she says, “They have aided me in receiving special equipment for everyday life, such as power and manual wheelchairs, walkers, a bike, and funding for a ramp into my house. Additionally, with their support I have been able to get a college education which has allowed me to live a fully independent life.”

Breanne’s parents were asked if there was a particular point they would like to get across when it came to the support they received from SMD, they replied, “Without SMD we would not have known what to do or where to go. They had all the avenues, and knew how to help.”

Krista Carlson, a Rehabilitation Counsellor based out of our Brandon location who has worked with Breanne adds, “I met Breanne for the first time as a part of the transition process from High School to Adulthood. She successfully completed the Health Unit Clerk training from Robertson College here in Brandon. Initially upon graduating with her Diploma she worked for a year or so as a Pharmacy Assistant but recently reported that she had reached her goal and was working as a Health Unit Clerk at the Brandon Regional Health Centre. Employment was our primary goal. However, in the process we were able to support her to be living independently by modifying her van so she can have the freedom to come and go as she pleases and go to work independently. This was a very personal goal for Breanne which I am so happy that we could help her to attain.”

Breanne has faced and overcome many barriers over the years and encourages others by adding, “Never give up. Life is going to be hard but it's all about how you take control. There is always going to be someone out there who is struggling. However, it's how you deal with life that makes the difference. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do something.”

“To me SMD means hope, for a better chance at living my best life.”