Quality of Life day program participant, 23-year-old Bradley, was introduced to SaskAbilities Regina Branch through the youth recreation program, SLYP-Out (Social Leisure Youth Program) in 2018. After completing high school and upon recommendation by his social worker, Bradley’s dad Robert took a closer look at what programs and services were available at SaskAbilities.
“I knew Bradley had a great time in SLYP-Out. Outside of Special Olympics it was one of the first times he seemed to really enjoy the activities they did and places they went. When Bradley’s social worker recommended SaskAbilities, I looked into it and they had one spot open in the day program and now, here we are,” explains Robert of Bradley’s transition into programming after an enjoyable 9-month “mini vacation” at home, post high school.
A sports fan – hockey to be exact – it is no surprise Bradley enjoys the activities offered at SaskAbilities’ day program, allowing him to partake in fan favourites like bowling while connecting with fellow participants. “Bradley is not very verbal. Quite often I’ll ask him questions, when he was in school. Like typical kids, I wouldn’t get much of a response. But, after just the first week of attending the day program, he was wanting to tell me about his day, going to Victoria Square to glow mini golf. He was sharing that with me all on his own and I thought that was really cool because he came out and said something without me asking,” beams Robert, who sees Bradley becoming more comfortable and outspoken with his peers, including video chatting with his girlfriend, a fellow Quality of Life day program participant.
He is such a genuinely nice young man. People want to be around Bradley.
Now, well into a year of programming, Bradley has relaxed into the group, sharing his warm presence and kind nature with both fellow participants and staff members. “He is such a genuinely nice young man. People want to be around Bradley. He has such high respect for his fellow participants – his friends – and for staff members too. We often say that Bradley has the ability to be a mentor to others. He is always so present and thoughtful during sessions and activities, often helping others without being asked and just so kind. He has a warmth about him that does not go unnoticed,” expresses Daniela Wagman, Quality of Life Coordinator at the Regina Branch.
Though quiet, it did not take Bradley long to flash his smile and strike a pose in front of the camera. Laughing and interacting with his peers along the way, it would seem when most comfortable with those around him, Bradley feels a sense of safety and security to be his most authentic self. “Bradley is very kind, he’s a very caring, and compassionate person. It’s nice to see him really come out of his shell since he’s been here and for others to see what I see in him. It’s quite magical, that’s for sure,” shares Robert, elated to see his son relaxing and growing into the person he knows him to be.
