Carla Melendez RN, BSN

HELIUM was originally conceptualized as a comprehensive solution that would cater to all the needs of its users. Carla, a psychiatric nurse who is known for her compassion and dedication, has devoted a significant portion of her career to providing support to veterans who are at a high risk of committing suicide. From a young, Carla has been an advocate for individuals with unique abilities, and her wealth of knowledge and experience in this area has been instrumental in shaping her professional approach. As a neurodiverse individual herself, Carla's personal journey of self-discovery and advocacy has been a driving force behind her passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others. Her neurodiverse brain has empowered her to find solutions to problems, particularly those that affect the well-being of others, and her problem-solving skills have earned her multiple accolades for bringing innovative approaches and ideas to provide solutions and fairness to societal issues. Carla has been honored with the Daisy Award, is a VA Shark Tank Winner, and has recently been recognized nationally with a Connected Care Distinguished Leader Award for her use of telehealth to provide services.

In addition to her professional endeavors, Carla is a devoted mother to two children with unique abilities. Through her own experiences advocating for her children within the healthcare and education systems, Carla has gained firsthand insight into the challenges faced by families seeking appropriate services and support. This journey has inspired Carla to harness her expertise as a healthcare provider, her personal experiences as a mother, and her own journey as a neurodiverse individual to create a place for guiding and empowering others on similar paths. This place is envisioned as a one-stop-shop for all needs, where individuals with unique abilities can receive personalized support, advocacy, and education. Carla firmly believes that everyone has a unique contribution to make to society and is committed to facilitating early access to quality services for individuals with unique abilities. Through her unwavering dedication and compassionate approach, Carla is making a meaningful impact in the lives of those she serves, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.