About five years ago, Anwar was working more than 50 hours per week in senior management at a large national organization, plus volunteering at an executive level at another 10 hours per week.

“One day, I could not rise from my bed, it took me over two hours to get up and out of bed, my vision was partially lost in one eye, and my entire body was in severe chronic pain,” they explain.

Diagnosed and treated for an autoimmune disorder, full body chronic pain, and severe eye inflammation, they found they couldn’t return to their career of 30 years. They are unable to sit, stand, use the computer, or perform tasks for prolonged periods.

Anwar eventually went on EI and became a client of WorkBC in Langley, trying to figure out the next phase of their life given their physical limitations.

Their career coach referred them to WorkBC Assistive Technology Services.

Assistive Technology Services staff assessed their current physical conditions, limitations, abilities, and assisted in finding ergonomic solutions for their home office to assist them in taking small steps to find meaningful work and gainful employment within their abilities.

ATS assisted in pairing Anwar with a supplier where they could trial various recommended equipment and furniture, and followed up to ensure adequate delivery, setup and use of the equipment.

In the end, Anwar received appropriate ergonomic equipment and furniture including an electric sit/stand desk, suitable ergonomic chair, footrest, arm rest, specific ergo keyboard/mouse, document holder, monitor and monitor arm, anti-fatigue mat, and a carpet mat.

“[It] significantly improved my ability to work, study, read, write, use the computer, keyboard and mouse. I am not in pain or discomfort while sitting at the computer workstation. I am able to work or study for a longer period of time than prior to the accommodations,” they share.

They are now able to work part-time from home and take courses online.

“With ATS assisting me to prevent chronic pain, repetitive strains, eye strains, pain and discomfort while sitting, standing, working, or studying at my home office, I am able to earn a small wage with dignity.”

Anwar “100% absolutely” recommends Assistive Technology Services to others in need.

“I am able to plan and prepare for a purposeful, meaningful future,” they say. “Thank you times infinity!”

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WorkBC Assistive Technology Services is operated by Neil Squire. Assistive Technology Services are available to individuals who have a work-related barrier due to a disability or a functional limitation. This may include barriers related to traveling to and from the workplace.

Questions about WorkBC Assistive Technology Services? Need help applying? Contact us: 1-844-453-5506 or info-ats@workbc.ca

Please visit www.workbc-ats.ca for more information about WorkBC Assistive Technology Services.

Tags: assistive technology, BC, WorkBC Assistive Technology Services