Ten-year-old Bella Brave, known for her infectious energy and ability to spread joy, passed away in July after spending most of her life in and out of hospitals due to rare health conditions. The community in Saskatoon has come together to honor her memory by immortalizing her words and artwork at The Shop, a local tattoo shop. Co-owner Sheena Baldo was touched by Bella’s story and wanted to ensure that her energy continued to shine. The shop was filled with supporters of Bella’s family, eager to get tattoos featuring Bella’s messages of bravery and her hand-drawn designs of butterflies and foxes. Bella’s mother, Kyla Thomson, expressed how proud Bella would have been to see her designs out in public, as she was a passionate artist.
One of the customers, Jennifer Draper, chose to get a tattoo of a bowed, pink locket on her arm to honor Bella, who had become an important part of her life. A portion of the proceeds from the tattoos at The Shop is going to the Ronald McDonald House, a charity that was close to Bella’s heart. Thomson explained that during Bella’s medical stays far from home, they had been supported by the Ronald McDonald House, which provided comfort and a sense of home for them. She emphasized how important it was for Bella to give back and help others, and she wants to continue that advocacy in her honor.
Thomson shared a touching moment from her drive to Saskatoon, where she saw a bright pink and purple sky and felt that Bella was painting the skies above. She described how Bella’s energy was still present, and she wanted to keep her daughter’s name alive in the community. The Shop’s efforts to commemorate Bella’s legacy have been met with overwhelming support, with people coming together to celebrate Bella’s life and the impact she had on those around her. Thomson expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community.
The tattoos at The Shop are not just a way to memorialize Bella but also a way to carry on her message of bravery and joy. Bella’s love for art and design is reflected in the tattoos that feature her hand-drawn creations. Thomson hopes that by continuing Bella’s advocacy and helping others, she can make her daughter proud. The community’s response to honoring Bella’s memory highlights the impact she had on those who knew her and those who were touched by her story. Through the tattoos and the support of the community, Bella’s spirit lives on and continues to inspire others.
Overall, the story of Bella Brave is one of resilience, love, and the power of community. Despite facing numerous health challenges, Bella’s positive energy and infectious personality left a lasting impact on those around her. The efforts to honor her memory at The Shop demonstrate the love and support that the community has for Bella and her family. By continuing Bella’s legacy through advocacy and helping others, her mother hopes to keep her daughter’s spirit alive and make her proud. Bella’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of kindness, courage, and joy in the face of adversity.
