I wish to visit my birthplace

Bella was 20 weeks in utero when she was diagnosed with a congenital heart disease. This diagnosis led to Bella being born in Toronto, far away from her family, adding an additional layer of stress. “As young parents with another child at home, we had to spend time away from each other,” Bella’s mom, Sarah, shared. “It caused a lot of anxiety not knowing what the outcome was.” Almost immediately after she was born, she had her aortic arch widened. At three and a half years old, she underwent another surgery to remove some excess muscle growing around her heart.  

Now at eight years old, Bella is monitored closely by her medical team. She has more muscle growing around her heart, which is causing her valves to work improperly. Although she has grown up in the Maritimes, Toronto holds a special place in her heart. She dreamed of going to visit her birthplace. While on her wish trip, she got to see her favourite hockey team play, marking her first national hockey game. “Spending time together stress free was exactly what we needed,” Sarah shared. “Everyday Bella woke up wanting to chase fun and that’s what we went there for.” Bella and her family will forever cherish the memories they made together and the fun they had in Toronto.