DES VR Program Helps Special Olympian with Traumatic Brain Injury Thrive Off the Court
(Alek Vujanov (left) and Grant Vujanov (right))
Finding a great job can be difficult, particularly for individuals with disabilities; but the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program offers specialized employment services for job seekers, like Alek Vujanov, who has an acquired brain injury. Thanks to the services provided by VR, Alek was able to find employment, and continue the journey that will lead him onto the court as he represents Team Arizona in the Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando, Florida this June.
Alek has come a long way since the start of his journey. Just days after he was born, he became severely ill with Spinal Meningitis. The dreadful illness resulted in a stroke and a low chance of survival. “The doctors gave me a 90% chance of dying in the hospital,” said Alek.
Thankfully, Alek beat the odds by surviving his devastating diagnosis; however, the illness and stroke left him with an acquired brain injury, which had an impact on his ability to be independent.
Alek recently moved from Ohio to Scottsdale, Arizona, to live next door to his younger brother and caretaker, Grant. Grant said that in Ohio, Alek wasn’t living up to his fullest potential and would often spend his days playing video games and skipping critical activities, such as brushing his teeth and eating. Having Alek nearby now allows Grant to keep a closer eye on his brother’s basic needs, but Grant knew that Alek’s life could be even further enriched through employment.
“Working is very important for our family,” said Grant, adding that “even if he [Alek] doesn’t need the money, it’s important that he works for social stimulation.”
Grant helped Alek apply for several jobs without success. After feeling defeated in their job search, Grant and Alek’s mother turned to the VR program for support.
Alek’s VR team helped him get on track with his day-to-day activities. “They came to his house and helped him create checklists to make sure he was doing the things he needed to be doing, '' said Grant. “It was helpful to have someone that wasn’t family encouraging him.”
Alek’s VR counselor and Brain Injury Specialist, Beth Baker, said that Alek then worked with therapists at Swan Rehab to prepare for the workforce to learn skills to be able to obtain and maintain employment.
(Alek Vujanov (left) and Grant Vujanov (right))
“They helped me prepare for interviews, and they went on interviews with me,” explained Alek. Eventually, Alek landed a great job with Goodwill where he still works today.
Both Alek and Grant were pleased with the services they received from the VR program and said that even after Alek was hired, his counselor continued to stay in touch to ensure he was doing well.
“We had such a great time working with Alek during his time in the Comprehensive Vocational Program and are proud of his continued success,” said Occupational Therapist, Kaitlyn Landess.
When Alek isn’t working, he loves to swim, golf, play softball and basketball. “I think that physical activity is key for mental and physical health,” explained Grant, adding that, “I absolutely think it helps Alek thrive in that regard, as well as the social aspects like finding new friends and having a sense of community.”
For over 10 years, Alek and Grant have been involved in the Special Olympics and are currently gearing up to represent Arizona in basketball at the 2022 Special Olympic games in Florida. “We’ve been able to bond significantly through the Special Olympics in ways that we otherwise wouldn’t get to in normal adult life. It’s been great!” said Grant.
During March, DES recognizes Brain Injury Awareness Month to shine a light on our neighbors like Alek who live with this invisible disability. If you or someone you know has sustained a brain injury, DES may be able to help. Please visit, des.az.gov/rsa for more information.