HAGERSTOWN, INDIANA (RFD NEWS) — Renewing hope and restoring productivity is at the heart of AGRAbility, a program dedicated to helping farmers with disabilities stay engaged in agriculture. One inspiring example is Ed Bell, who survived a violent attack in 1983 that left him paralyzed but has since found ways to adapt and thrive on his family farm.
Indiana strawberry and asparagus grower Ed Bell joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to share his journey and discuss AGRAbility’s mission and its impact on his life after sustaining gunshot wounds that left him paralyzed, and spoke about how returning to farm work played a critical role in his healing and rehabilitation.
In his conversation with RFD NEWS, Bell reflected on growing up on the farm his parents purchased in 1969 and how stepping in to help during his father’s illness gave him early experience running the operation.
Transitioning to a new normal, Ed decided to focus on growing strawberries, inspired by what he observed in grocery stores and guided by practical considerations for his operation. He also shared how learning about AGRAbility and getting involved with the program helped him continue farming successfully despite his challenges.
Looking to the future, Ed highlighted the importance of legacy, noting that his daughter and son-in-law are raising the next generation on the farm, the fourth generation of his family. He offered encouragement to others facing obstacles, emphasizing resilience and determination.
