Bella Thomson, a 10-year-old girl from Swift Current, Saskatchewan, who captivated millions with her health journey on social media, has passed away. Known online as Bella Brave, she faced several rare health conditions with unwavering bravery. Bella’s mother, Kyla Thomson, confirmed her passing after Bella was placed in a medically-induced coma at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, also known as SickKids. “Bella passed peacefully in our arms,” Kyla shared on Instagram, urging people to remember Bella’s name, her memories, and her bravery.
Table of Contents
Also Read: Actress Shannen Doherty dies at 53, after a nearly decade-long battle with breast cancer
An Outpouring of Grief and Support
The news of Bella’s death has led to a wave of grief and support from various corners. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe paid tribute to Bella on social media, acknowledging the lasting impact she had on many lives. Several Saskatchewan sports teams and the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation, where Bella served as an ambassador, also shared heartfelt messages. “Bella defined the word Brave in how she encouraged others at difficult times,” the Foundation wrote, celebrating her life and legacy.
Battling Rare Health Conditions
Bella Thomson was born with three rare conditions: dwarfism, severe combined immunodeficiency, and Hirschsprung’s disease, which affects the bowel. Her health challenges led to over 1,000 nights in the hospital throughout her life. In 2023, Bella underwent a bowel transplant after years of waiting for an organ donation. Despite these daunting health issues, Bella’s spirit remained unbroken, and she became a beacon of hope and resilience for many.
Rise to Social Media Stardom
Bella and her mother started sharing their journey on TikTok in 2021, quickly amassing a large following. Their account now has over seven million followers, drawn to their candid updates and positive outlook amidst repeated hospitalizations and surgeries. Bella’s story resonated with many, including celebrities like singer Halsey and Canadian actor Ryan Reynolds, both of whom met Bella and supported her journey. Bella’s advice to other children in similar situations was simple yet profound: “Be very careful. Have lots of fun. And stay brave.”
Bella Brave: A Legacy of Bravery
Bella’s life, though short, was marked by incredible courage and a positive impact on countless lives. Her journey not only raised awareness about her rare health conditions but also inspired many to face their challenges with bravery and optimism. The support from her followers, celebrities, and various organizations highlighted the significant influence Bella had on the community and beyond.
FAQs
What were Bella Brave’s health conditions?
Bella was born with dwarfism, severe combined immunodeficiency, and Hirschsprung’s disease, which affects the bowel.
How did Bella Brave gain popularity?
Bella and her mother shared their health journey on TikTok, gaining over seven million followers with their candid updates and positive outlook.
Who were some of the celebrities that supported Bella?
Singer Halsey and Canadian actor Ryan Reynolds were among the celebrities who supported and met Bella.
What was Bella’s advice to other children waiting for a transplant?
Bella advised them to “Be very careful. Have lots of fun. And stay brave.”
How did Bella’s family and the community react to her passing?
There was an outpouring of grief and support from Bella’s family, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, sports teams, and the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation, highlighting her lasting impact on many lives.
