BAYADA Awards 2026 HHA National Hero of the Year

Rhonda Wilson is BAYADA’s 2026 HHA National Hero of the Year

Rhonda Wilson exemplifies the life-changing impact a caregiver can have through compassion,
dedication, and an unwavering belief in what’s possible. As the BAYADA 2026 Home Health Aide National Hero of the Year, Rhonda has become far more than a support system for her client Alyssa—she’s a partner in helping her live a full, self-directed life.

Alyssa was born at just 28 weeks, weighing under two pounds, and later diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Today, at 33, she’s pursuing her bachelor’s degree with goals of building a career in event planning. That journey hasn’t been easy—but with Rhonda by her side, it’s been possible.

Alyssa describes Rhonda as “the other half of my brain,” someone who helps bridge the gap between what she envisions and what she can physically do. “She’s her arms and her legs,” Alyssa’s mother shares. “Whatever she can’t do, Rhonda will do.” But Rhonda’s role goes far beyond tasks. She creates space for Alyssa to lead.

Whether it’s setting up adaptive technology for studying, helping her navigate exams, or even bringing her love of baking to life, Rhonda meets Alyssa where she is—and lifts her forward. When Alyssa shared that she would have been a chef if she could use her hands, Rhonda didn’t let that dream fade. “I’ll be your hands,” she told her. Together, they made it real.

What stands out most is how Rhonda sees Alyssa—not as limitations, but as potential. “She treats me like a normal person,” Alyssa says. “She reminds me of how smart I am… she is that other force in my life to say that I can do anything.”

That mindset has had a profound impact, not just on Alyssa, but on her entire family. “When you feel that someone is taking care of your child the way you would take care of them, you know that person is special,” her father shares. “Every day she’s here, I don’t have to worry.”

Through her care, Rhonda has helped Alyssa grow in confidence, independence, and pride in what she can accomplish. She’s not just assisting—she’s empowering.

Rhonda Wilson was honored as the BAYADA 2026 HHA National Hero of the Year at BAYADA’s Awards Weekend in Nashville, TN.

At her core, Rhonda’s work reflects a simple but powerful belief: “People with disabilities deserve to be considered. They deserve to be cared for, and they deserve to be loved.” Through every action, she brings that belief to life—changing not just one life, but an entire family’s sense of what’s possible.

BAYADA Home Health Care Hero Program

The National Hero of the Year Awards are part of BAYADA’s Hero Program, which recognizes and rewards those who exceed the highest standards of quality care and work ethic at an office, division, and national level. Heroes can be nominated by their colleagues and clients. All BAYADA employees and clients can nominate any registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, home health aide, therapist, or other professional caregivers.

Visit bayada.com for more information about home health care services, or to join BAYADA’s community of compassionate caregivers apply today at jobs.bayada.com.