How would you describe your disability or impairment?

I walk short distances with assistance, and I feel very little from my waist down. I use a wheelchair. I have spina bifida.

How does your disability affect your daily life?

I’m unable to get a driver’s license. I would love to go out more, to have coffee and go shopping, but it’s difficult to coordinate because I need someone to drive me. Since there are six of us in the family, it’s not always easy to organize. Right now, my brother is my personal assistant, and he takes me to the occupational activity center in the morning. It’s a bit easier now.

How old are you?

I am 29 years old. I can’t wait to turn 30 and have a party.

What are your biggest life priorities and goals?

I would love to have a house by the sea, where I could live. When I was younger, I always dreamed of a man who would have his head on straight so I could get married and have four children. I even looked at rings and wedding dresses. I still have these wishes today.

What sports or leisure activities are you currently involved in?

I had boccia in school, but I’m not interested in it anymore. I listen to music, solve puzzles, which are good for my brain. I help at home and spend time with my dog. I love going to concerts, and I regularly attend Bassi (singer) at Križanke. If possible, I go to a nearby café with friends.

How did you get involved in these activities (e.g., through school, family, friends)?

Through school, family, and friends. I always go somewhere nearby so that I don’t burden others with having to drive me.

How often do you participate in these activities?

Right now, I do puzzles every day. On weekends, I start at 11 AM and finish at 9 PM. Once I start something, I have to finish it.

What adjustments (if any) do you need to participate?

I can speak, but I sometimes get confused by the value of money, so it’s good to have someone with me who understands money. When I go for a drink, I write down the price. I have a whole list so I know how much things cost and prepare enough money in advance.

What challenges have you faced in joining sports or leisure activities?

The main challenge is transportation. In boccia, I got frustrated because a lot of people were watching me and observing what I would do. Since I didn’t throw the ball well, they got angry and unpleasant.

How did you overcome these obstacles (if you had any)?

My dad bought me a motorized attachment for my wheelchair (Speedex). My health insurance didn’t want to grant me the right to use this motorized attachment, so we had to buy it.

Who has supported you the most in getting involved in activities?

When it comes to puzzles, my dad and my brother Maj support me the most. Right now, I’m working on a 1,000-piece puzzle. I don’t need support or encouragement for socializing with friends and I actually enjoy shopping even more.

How have these activities affected your relationships with family, friends, or the community?

They definitely affect my friendships. Someone who just wants to sit at home all day and has a lot of free time might not understand that I have other commitments and am not always available, which sometimes causes issues. I also need some rest, so I can’t go for a drink immediately after coming home from the occupational activity center.

What activities would you like to try in the future?

I have already played the accordion. My personal assistant taught me. I don’t need to attend dance classes because I can dance well without wheelchair if I have a good dance partner. Wheelchair dancing was boring for me. Maybe I would like to learn conversational Spanish.

What changes or support would you like to have for better participation in activities?

Nothing in particular. I already participate in coffee outings and concerts and manage this on my own. I don’t like when people feel sorry for themselves. I arrange transportation and go.

In your opinion, how could sports and leisure activities help better integrate young people with disabilities?

My brother Maj is autistic, and sports would help him, but he would need supervision. I think it would be beneficial. Any activity they join helps with integration.

What advice would you give to other young people with disabilities who want to participate in sports or leisure activities?

Look up different activities on the internet. If something doesn’t interest you, you don’t have to try it. But if it seems even a little interesting, give it a try and get involved.