Bella Thomson, more famously known as Bella Brave, stole the hearts of millions, not only in Saskatchewan but around the world.
Today hundreds gathered in Swift Current in their best pink attire to celebrate the 10-year-old girl’s life.
She passed away on July 14 in her parents’ arms at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto after being induced into a coma earlier this week due to a viral lung infection.
The service, scheduled for 11 a.m. in Swift Current, had seating available for up to 800 people, and anyone who loved Bella was encouraged to attend.
Bella loved all things pink and glitter. Her burial outfit is one fit for a princess, tiara and all. (KylaCT/Instagram)
In a post to social media earlier this week, Bella’s mother, Kyla Thomson wrote: “For those who can attend in person we welcome Bella’s favourite attire; anything pink and fancy.”
And dress fancy they did at the celebration of Bella’s life at Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church, where hundred of mourners decked out in florals, frills, and every shade of pink bid Bella a tearful farewell on Saturday.
Bella’s mother read a poignant “Letter to my Bella” towards the end of the service.
“You were not just my daughter, you were an inspiration to countless children fighting big battles just like you,” Kyla said, as Bella’s father stood by her side for support.
“The way you taught us to be brave is unmatched and forever keeps me in awe of your strength and your love.”
Kyla shared some some stories about Bella’s “queen bee/princess persona,” highlighting her lack of fear in any endeavour, as well as her sense of humour and infectious “Bella belly laugh”.
“I will carry you forward in everything that I do —your legacy, and bravery, and joy,” Kyla said.
“You will be missed beyond measure but your spirit lives on in our hearts. and in the lives of those you touched.”
A video of the service is available online here.
A poem written by Bella that her mom Kyla shared to social media. (KylaCT/Instagram)
Who was Bella?
Bella was unique from the second she was born. She was born with three rare conditions: a bowel disease called Hirschsprung disease; severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), which affects the immune system; and dwarfism.
Bella spent well over 1000 days in numerous hospital beds, but that didn’t stop her from sharing her incredible personality with the world.
Kyla wanted to share their family’s story on social media in hopes of educating the world about her condition.
It’s safe to say the pair were very successful, gaining well over seven million followers on TikTok alone.
They also caught the attention of various celebrities like Halsey and Ryan Reynolds.
Not only did Kyla hope to educate others, but she wanted to share all the joy Bella brought into the world as well.
@kylactCan’t caption Laughing too hard
Help us caption in the comments?
@Little Tikes #swing #physiotherapy #bellabrave #fyp #foryoupage #kylact #laughing #goodtimes #funny #kidsoftiktok #momsoftiktok 🩷
UPDATE: Bella has been working so hard at physio, post bowel transplant. The swing is her favourite entertainment post physio class. Her transplant team praises her for being a whole month ahead of where they typically see transplant patients at this time.
@SickKids Foundation #sickkids #sickkidsstrong #strong♬ original sound – KylaCT
Kyla and her husband came up with the nickname Bella Brave, saying it was the best way to describe her.
“She is brave through so much in such a young part of her life that most adults don’t even see in their entire life,” Kyla said to CJME in a previous interview.
“And the way that she has always come out of every surgery, every trying time in the hospital, every stay with such resilience and happiness and just confidence that it seemed to fit her personality perfectly given her story.”
In a post to social media, Kyla said she is thankful for the outpouring of love and support from the community.
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