A Million Reasons: Why I Fought for the Rights of the Disabled

Alan Labonte's tale of going to battle against a large Boston law firm, which felt it could destroy his life, should be required reading prior to entering the world of work. Employees should read the book to understand the costs involved in suing an employer and the satisfaction of winning a large amount of money (not a settlement). Mr. Labonte was unusual, because he also wanted to win the case (and NOT settle) to clarify the American with Disabilities Act in employment discrimination. Employers should read the book and be careful, because there are brave people like Alan Labonte, who not only sue and beat the Hutchins & Wheelers of the Nation, but also write about the process. There is so much to learn from "A Million Reasons: Why I fought for the rights of the disabled." This is in an engaging autobiographical account of fighting against the shameful discrimination aimed at him by a major Boston law firm. I have already suggested this book to someone being "Hutchins & Wheeler"ed by an employer. Alan Labonte's story will give her something on which to base her decision to sue or not. Bravo! to Mr. Labonte for giving us his story. I learned a lot and I'm sure everyone who reads this book will too.

I do not know many people who would turn down three million to maintain ones integrity. As one who serves persons with disabilities, I was so moved and inspired and motivated by the book as I seek to advocate for my clients. Marilyn J. Trechter

An outstanding example of the philosophy of Viktor Frankl (author of "Man's Search for Meaning" and others). In essence, Frankl believes that we can transcend any adversity if we find the meaning that makes us unique. This story was gripping as any suspense fiction, not only because it was filled with the tension of David v. Goliath coupled with serious illness and more--a legal system that too often re-victimizes the victims--but Alan Labonte epitomizes the philosophy of Frankl. He rose above a frightening and seriously disabling disease to become a champion for infinite numbers of others. That gave meaning to the disease--an opportunity to do something for others. He would not have succeeded in this quest if not for a wonderful lawyer, David Rappaport of Boston, who clearly is a very special person as well as an extraordinary attorney.

Put on a pot of coffee. "A Million Reasons: Why I Fought for the Rights of the Disabled" will leave you burning the midnight oil. Set against a backdrop of the Boston skyline and the ritzy offices of a prestigious Boston law firm, "A Million Reasons" has it all - drama, intrigue, adventure, and ultimately the triumph of the human spirit. In this gutsy tell-all, Alan Labonte and co-author Brock Brower aptly weave the compelling narrative of Labonte's valiant fight against his former employer, its unexpected protraction into a 5-year legal battle, and its culmination into a precedent setting case defending the rights of the disabled. From the top executive floors of 101 Federal Place, to the paneled courtrooms of Beacon Hill, a gripping cast of characters peppers this account, but you will find yourself rooting for Labonte's legal counsel, David Rapaport, who proves to be the superhero of employment lawyers. Rapaport's dedication, loyalty, and friendship to Labonte is remarkable, and his cool and effectual trial demeanor leave him a force to be reckoned with in the courtroom. Other hidden jewels within this chronicle include Labonte's spiritual renewal (in pilgrimages to the mystical village of Medjugorje, Bosnia) and the humanitarian efforts that brought him closer to understanding God's plan for him. Labonte recounts memories - some strangely foreshadowing - of his childhood growing up in a catholic, blue collar family in Worcester, MA, and of the beginnings of his enduring love with his wife, Lora. "A Million Reasons" recounts not only a legal stronghold for the rights of the disabled (or in Labonte's case, the "abundantly abled",) but is also pure inspiration that will renew your faith in the pursuit of justice, even under the worst of circumstances, and the indomitable power of love, loyalty, and courage, that even MS could not shake.

"A Million Reasons" describes in often fascinating detail how Alan Labonte, the general manager of a Boston law firm who was fired after he developed multiple scleroris, fought the good fight against his remarkably arrogant employers and, despite the long odds and with the tenacious support of his lawyer, won, even when the case was appealed. It was never a sure thing, and Labonte even turned down a settlement offer of $3 million because he knew that by accepting it he would be agreeing to never speak publicly about his case. When the long court fight was over, he wound up with an award of closer to $2 million, so basically he forfeited $1 million in damages. "What I have kept is my freedom to speak out, and what I gained was even more precious," Labonte explained. "I've now got a million reasons to tell it like it really is and to join in the continuing fight across the country for the rights of Americans with disabilities." This is an inspirational tale told by a man who had deep reserves of ethics, determination and pride. And it's a good read, too.