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Living His Best Life: Ryan's Journey to Independence and Joy
September 30, 2025
When Kirsten Beining describes Ryan Boroch—the young man she has worked with for more than a decade—her voice softens with unmistakable warmth.
“Funny, smart, and has a contagious laugh,” she says, smiling. These aren’t just descriptors; they are reflections of a deeply personal relationship, one shaped by years of shared experiences and trust.
A Mother's Vision
Ryan and his mother Sue Boroch
As Ryan approached adulthood, his parents, Kevin and Sue, began confronting a reality many families in similar situations face: What happens after school ends?
For Ryan, who was born with profound hearing loss and requires full support for all aspects of daily living, the prospect of adult life outside the family home was daunting.
“He cannot care for himself in any way,” Sue explains. From bathing and dressing to communication and medical care, Ryan’s needs were constant and complex.
“We started to ask ourselves —what would a good life look like for Ryan, even if it wasn’t under our roof?” Sue recalls. Their search led them to Achieva, known for its customized, person-centered approach. While other agencies seemed reluctant to veer from the standard model,
Achieva did something radical: they listened.
For Ryan, who was born with profound hearing loss and requires full support for all aspects of daily living, the prospect of adult life outside the family home was daunting.
“He cannot care for himself in any way,” Sue explains. From bathing and dressing to communication and medical care, Ryan’s needs were constant and complex.
“We started to ask ourselves —what would a good life look like for Ryan, even if it wasn’t under our roof?” Sue recalls. Their search led them to Achieva, known for its customized, person-centered approach. While other agencies seemed reluctant to veer from the standard model,
Achieva did something radical: they listened.
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We started to ask ourselves—what would a good life look like for Ryan, even if it wasn’t under our roof?” Sue recalls.Building Something New
Kirsten (pictured at far left) is a Community Supported Living Specialist with Achieva. She first met Ryan over 13 years ago at the Watson Institute, where he attended school. Even then, a special bond began to form between them. Years later, that connection would evolve into something life-changing—for both of them.
“His mom actually recruited me,” Kirsten remembers, laughing softly. She had remained in touch with the family over the years, and when Sue reached out about a new opportunity, Kirsten didn’t hesitate.
She applied for a full-time overnight position, a job that not only worked with her own family’s schedule but also allowed her to continue supporting Ryan in the next phase of his life.
“It was a way to stay connected to someone I care deeply about,” she says.
A Home Designed for Joy
Today, Ryan’s home is a reflection of his personality. One standout feature is his sensory room, a carefully curated space filled with calming lights, soft textures, and windows that allow him to observe the world in motion—a longtime favorite activity.
“He’s always liked to stand and watch out the windows,” Sue says. “Traffic, people, kids—whatever’s out there.”
Routine and predictability are essential for Ryan’s emotional well-being. His daily schedule, posted in the staff office, includes everything from mealtime and hygiene to community outings and playtime with his beloved Mickey Mouse toys.
“He thrives on structure,” says Faith Vickinovac, a Community Living Supervisor with Achieva. Though she met Ryan only after he moved into his home, their bond quickly deepened.
“It was tough for him to adapt at first,” Faith admits. “There was a lot of frustration because he couldn’t express himself easily.” But over time, something shifted.
With consistent staff, a predictable routine, and an environment built for his needs, Ryan began to open up.
“Now, if he wants space, he takes our hand and leads us to the laundry room,” Faith explains. “He’s learned to advocate for himself in his own way,” she says.
The Power of Personalized Support
Ryan’s day-to-day life requires total support: bathing, dressing, meal preparation, administering medication, and emotional regulation. But at Achieva, these tasks aren’t simply boxes to be checked—they’re opportunities to empower.
What sets Achieva apart is the philosophy behind the care. It’s not about institutional rules or one-size-fits-all approaches. It’s about honoring Ryan’s identity and building a world where he feels safe, understood, and included.
“In elder care, everything was generalized,” Faith shares, referencing her previous job. “Here, everything is built around the individual. Ryan’s routine is his own.”
That personalized attention extends beyond the day-to-day. When Ryan experienced a medical emergency recently, his Achieva staff didn’t clock out—they stayed. Around the clock.
In the hospital. “They were more than caregivers,” Sue recalls, her voice full of emotion. “They were like family.”
A New Life for Everyone
For Kevin and Sue, Ryan’s move into community living didn’t just change his life—it transformed theirs.
“Before, we couldn’t take a break. We had no freedom,” Sue says.
Now, they can take time for themselves, secure in the knowledge that Ryan is not only well cared for, but thriving. “We’ve gotten our life back,” she reflects. “Like most parents do when their kids become adults.”
They know their son isn’t “independent” in the traditional sense—but that was never the goal.
“He’s living his adult life—just like other young adults,” Sue says. “And that’s absolutely amazing.”
Kevin adds: “He is living his best life.”
A Message of Hope
Faith Vickinovac and Ryan
“Start early. Know your resources,” Kevin says. “Make a list of what would make your child successful—and then ask if it’s possible,” adds Sue. And above all, don’t settle.
“No person with a disability fits neatly in a box,” Sue says. “Achieva helped us think beyond the box.”
Now, with a team of trusted professionals, a home full of love, and a community that celebrates his individuality, Ryan is doing more than just getting by—he’s thriving.
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