For more than two decades, Stella Coluccio has been a beacon of compassion, providing personalized care to those in need.

Through her role as a personal care aide with Consumer Directed Choices, Coluccio, of Colonie, has forged deep connections with individuals like Rensselaer's Richard Fraker, whose life has been touched by her support.

"It's rewarding at the end of the day when you see the things you're doing to help another person, and they're actually achieving goals and trying to help themselves," Coluccio said. "It's establishing friendship with a person as well."

Coluccio has been by Fraker’s side for the past four years, witnessing some of the most significant moments in his life, including his baptism. Consumer Directed Choices’ platform for personalized care enables caregivers like Coluccio to offer tailored support to individuals with disabilities, fostering independence and enhancing their quality of life.

"He's doing amazing," Coluccio remarks proudly of Fraker’s progress. "His hygiene has improved, he's taking good care of himself and he's doing so much better. I'm really proud of him for all this progress."

Coluccio’s dedication recently earned her recognition at the Constance Laymon Personal Assistant Recognition Awards Ceremony, shining a spotlight on her contributions to caregiving.

"It means a lot that I was able to receive that award and know that I'm appreciated," she said. "The work that I do, it's hard at times."