January Success Stories: Meet Ryan and James!
Jan 11, 2024
Success Stories: Meet Ryan and James!
Meet Ryan
*
Case Manager Christine Jewell-Tierney wrote in to tell us about Ryan. "Ryan completed high school at Harrison High School in West Lafayette in 2008. After completion of school, Ryan started working in the community. Ryan is a super social individual who loves working, being around others and anything sports related. Luckily for Ryan, he has had the opportunity to live a, incredibly fulfilled life that includes the things he loves the most all mended together.
Ryan has worked two jobs simultaneously at Purdue University since after he graduated high school. One job is in the Wiley Dining Hall where he can be found cleaning tables and doing dishes. The other job is at Mackey Arena where he works in the equipment room doing laundry and filling athletes’ lockers (and yes, he has run across some local ‘celebrities’!). He also volunteers every Friday at the local Food Finders food bank.
Using his strong social skills and charm, Ryan has befriended several Purdue University students over the years during his employment on the campus. In 2012, Ryan met a student in the dining hall, and they became fast friends. Keeping the friendship going, Ryan and this student kept talking every Sunday evening on the phone after the friend’s graduation. In September 2021, Ryan was honored to have been the best man in this friend’s wedding. He relished the opportunity to travel to Chicago, don a tuxedo and perform all the duties, speech and all!
*
Aside from Ryan’s busy work schedule, he has been involved in the Special Olympics for many years. He participates in bowling, softball, track, and basketball. While not practicing with his teams, Ryan is often found practicing on his own or with a friend for whatever sport is in season at that time, as he gives each sport his all when it is in season. In 2022, Ryan was honored to be named the Special Olympics Athlete of the Year. He has participated in many state tournaments and recently received a gold medal in softball.
Ryan is also involved in the local Young Life youth group, where he is a part of the leadership team. He has been an honorary member of the Sigma Chi fraternity at Purdue since 2010, as well. In 2013, he was also a star in the ARC of Indiana’s gala night, being selected to have his story (Ryan’s Dream Job) told through video.
When thinking of the term ‘success’ when it relates to people, Ryan exemplifies what it means to have and be a success story. He has been able to lead such a fulfilling life doing all the things that mean the most to him and that make him happiest. All the while, you will never come across him when he does not ask you: ‘How is your day?’."
Meet James
*
Case Manager Christina Stordeur wrote in to tell us about James. "James has accomplished so much, and continues to do so. In this past year, James has continued on with many of his traditions, including decorating a truck for his town's 4th of July parade! He work on the banners and decorations on his own leading up to the parade. He also has continues to promote his business, Austistic Eye Art (AustisticEyeArt.com) at various community events.
In the past year, James suffered the tragic loss of his sister who he had a very close relationship. He did not let this stop him. He has continued to maintain his employment at Good Will and mowing lawns. He has taken initiative to seek out support groups for grief where he has met new people.
He has shown in so many ways how he continues to strive to make the best life for himself. His family is supportive in all of his goals, big and small. His team knows he will continue to accomplish many more things."