Summer, 2005

Danny Ibsen Story

Daniel Ibsen shares a     charming and cheerful beach      cottage at Ocean Shores with his mother, Linda LaFever. Visiting him at home always proves to be entertaining and uplifting. He and his mother like to share many     stories and are both very lively and animated. They are also very      gracious, each time offering coffee and a cozy seat. It is always difficult to leave.

Daniel is in his early twenties and was born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. He and his mother have spent many years speaking about this syndrome and educating people about its effects. Linda has now authored and co-authored two in-depth books on the subject and shares openly and honestly about their lives. Danny’s story has been shared with thousands of people.

Daniel had been interested in finding meaningful employment and enlisted the service of the     Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, who, in turn, referred him to a number of       vendors who provide employment placement services. Daniel chose to work with Morningside’s office in the WorkSource Center for job   development services.

Daniel began his job with Rushforth Construction in late March following several job tours and an assessment and many “no’s” from employers. In spite of an early morning schedule that  involved some lifestyle changes for Daniel, he has faithfully shown up on time and has not missed work.

Regarding some of those     lifestyle changes, Daniel joked; “Previously, I had only exercised my butt muscles and my soda pop arm!” Now he says he gets “plenty of exercise” on the busy construction site of the new Ramada Inn where he works with the clean up crew.

When asked about his early concerns and reluctance about the job he remarked, “I didn’t know if I was qualified.” His mother had some concerns, as well. Her        primary worry was that Daniel might lose some of his important benefits if employed full time.    Following a brief but in depth  benefits analysis with specialist Pat Buff and Morningside staff, her fears were allayed.  Daniel’s    medical benefits remain intact. This was a great relief and is a service recommended for anyone whose financial situation suddenly changes.

Most weeks Daniel works 40 hours, although he has worked overtime on several occasions.

He says, “Everyday is different.” He continues to report that he enjoys his job. He especially likes the paycheck! His earnings have allowed him to buy quite a few fun things recently, like a new game system for the video games he loves to play and a new bicycle, which he sometimes rides to work. Always resourceful and responsible, Dan’s been able to  purchase additional work clothing with his earnings, as well.

There have been a number of days that the weather was wild at the beach and Daniel worked in foul weather gear, outdoors. He worked long hours and sometimes got wet. However, nothing has dampened his enthusiasm for his job, his co-workers and supervisors.

Hank Love, Superintendent for Rushforth Construction said “Dan’s a ‘great kid’! He works hard, gets along with everyone and does    exactly what he’s asked. Everyone really likes him,” a lofty compliment from the big boss.

When asked what he felt were highly positive things about     working, Dan said, “It keeps me out of trouble and gets me out of the house and away from constant video gaming. It gives me the opportunity to meet more people. It gives me a REAL LIFE!”

During time off from work Daniel still loves to play drums and has a new talent for playing keyboards. He continues to be an expert at bicycle racing.

Daniel advises those who are considering work, “You can get a job if you just keep trying. Since I hooked up with Morningside, I can’t believe how good they were at helping me find a job – but, I put a lot of effort into it, too…The way I see it, if I can do it, anyone can do it. DON’T GIVE UP!”