Congratulations to Joan Boyd, the 2025 recipient of the Anne Savasatano Self-Advocacy Award.
In loving memory of Anne Savasatano, who sadly passed away in 2014, REACH established this memorial award to honor her legacy as a passionate and dedicated self-advocate. Anne exemplified resilience, determination, and courage throughout her life, and her spirit continues to inspire us all.
Each year, this award recognizes an outstanding supported individual who has enriched their life through courageous action, strong self-advocacy, and unwavering determination. This year, we received several exceptional nominations that reflect the remarkable strength and resilience within our community.
Joan Boyd stood out for the inspiring way she faced significant medical challenges. Rather than allowing difficult news to discourage her, Joan chose to respond with determination and self-advocacy.
She took the initiative to educate herself, conducting independent research and actively participating in her medical decision-making. Joan carefully balanced her personal needs with the professional guidance of her healthcare providers. In fact, when her surgeon began explaining an upcoming procedure, Joan confidently shared that she was already well informed—thanks in part to the research she had done on YouTube.
Throughout her journey, Joan maintained an uplifting attitude and her wonderful sense of humor, demonstrating how positivity can be a powerful source of strength. Managing her health required her to adopt a new way of eating—no small adjustment for someone who loves fruits and vegetables. Yet Joan embraced the challenge, exploring creative alternatives and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
Amid these personal changes, Joan also welcomed a new roommate into her home. True to her caring and compassionate nature, she balanced her own health journey while supporting someone else who was navigating a transition of their own.
Joan’s perseverance, positivity, and commitment to advocating for herself are a powerful example to us all. We are proud to recognize her as the 2025 recipient of the Anne Savasatano Self-Advocacy Award.