HMEA—a private, not for profit agency that supports nearly 4,000 children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families—today announced that Franklin, Massachusetts resident Rachel Labella has received the agency’s 2021 Founders Award. The HMEA Founders Award is given annually to an individual supported by the agency who has demonstrated significant personal accomplishment, or who has overcome barriers with courage and determination. 

Labella, an HMEA group home resident, has overcome numerous medical challenges in her young life. She is legally blind, has hearing loss, a heart condition, and an immune deficiency. Most recently, she was hospitalized and diagnosed with critical diabetes. In a short span of time, Labella’s life as she knew it drastically changed. She was placed on insulin and all aspects of her diet, medication protocol, and daily living were altered, but Labella embraced her new life with positivity and fortitude.

Despite her medical and visual impairments, Labella excelled at learning how to monitor her own blood sugar levels and administer insulin injections. She was able to return to her group home and beloved housemates and staff members, determined to approach this new challenge with the same upbeat attitude that has served her well throughout her years.

Labella was nominated by Cheyana Whitelaw, an HMEA staff member at her group home.

“Rachel never fails to amaze all of us,” Whitelaw said. “She is, and has been, a hero to those who have had the pleasure to work with her, taking what many said was impossible and triumphing over all obstacles. Throughout it all, she continues to demonstrate concern for those around her. She is wise beyond her years and exemplifies what this award stands for.”

Labella was presented the award at HMEA’s 32nd Annual Awards Night. To learn more about HMEA, its programs and services, and the people it serves, visit www.hmea.org