More Birthdays for Bella

04/15/2013

More Birthdays for Bella

This auction has ended. Many Thanks to everyone who participated, and congratulations to Michelle Stark, winner of the complete set of ink pads! Please continue to keep little miss Bella in your prayers and stay informed on her Facebook Page and Caringbridge site.

I'd like you to meet my friend Bella! She is an adorable tiny not-quite-nine-year-old who has had quite the journey--may I tell you her story? Born prematurely and weighing only four pounds, Bella was in and out of hospitals all throughout the first six years of her life wth a laundry list of conditions and disorders, enduring eight major surgeries including open heart surgery. Because of multiple medical issues, Bella never learned to eat, and takes in all her nutrition through a g-tube. You can't keep Bella down, though, and she is a fiesty little sister and a sweet and sassy girlfriend with a dazzlin' smile!

Sadly, our little fighter friend was ultimately diagnosed with a rare, terminal illness called Fanconi Anemia. FA life expectancy is in the mid twenties due to bone marrow failure and a high incidence of leukemia and other cancers.

Bella's mom, my friend and former Stampin' Up team member Stephanie, has dedicated her life to raising funds for Fanconi Anemia research. A tireless fundraiser, Stephanie runs a More Birthdays for Bella Facebook page as well as a CaringBridge site where you can keep updated on Bella's story and read about ways you can help us find answers and ultimately discover a cure for Fanconi Anemia.

I wanted to help my little friend Bella, who is the same age as my daughter Natalie. I knew once you'd met Bella you'd want to help out, too, so I'm providing a fun and easy opportunity for you to do so!

One complete set of Stampin' Up's new Firm Foam ink pads