Jordan River Hatchery volunteer Andy Pavelek cleans a raceway full of lake trout. - USFWS photo

Andy Pavelek, a 32 year old man from Shelby Township, Mich., started work as a volunteer at Jordan River National Fish Hatchery on Feb. 14.  Andy, who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from Adrian College, was formerly a successful territory sales manager for a business in Southeast Michigan.

Nearly four years ago, Andy was assaulted while visiting his brother John in Chicago.  He sustained a life altering brain injury.  Thankfully, Andy survived, but he was left with a major uphill battle as he could not walk or talk after the attack.  Andy's is a remarkable story of courage, family support and an incredibly strong will.  As a result of his long rehabilitation and recovery, his career was ended, and his home and finances were lost to medical expenses. Through the support of his family and many friends, he was able to take full advantage of medical advances and treatments. He beat the odds! 

As part of his rehabilitation process Andy has diversified his learning experiences at schools, hospitals, businesses, fitness centers and now is here at Jordan River.  Andy is in great physical shape; he exercises regularly and loves the outdoor lifestyle.  His positive attitude is contagious. He ran a marathon, participated in a cancer benefit mountain bike event and most recently,  on April , Andy ran a 5k with his brother in Chicago.  Plus, he is just poison to his opponents on the pool and ping pong tables.

Andy is assisting with fish culture and some maintenance tasks at the hatchery.  He is living on station and loves the area.  Andy is doing a super job and unless you were told, you would never,  ever,  guess that he couldn't walk or talk just three years ago.