Bella and her family are from Lake Charles, LA. Bella was born with a birth defect called Esophageal Atresia with a Double TE Fistula. This birth defect happens when the esophagus is completely blocked (atresia) and there are two abnormal connections between the esophagus and the trachea, one at the upper part of the esophagus and one at the lower part. This means that Bella has two separate openings from her esophagus into her windpipe, causing significant feeding difficulties and respiratory complications. Despite her condition, Bella loves to smile!
Her mother, Hannah, says that RMHCSLA eased some of the stressors during her treatment by taking the burden of paying for accommodations and food for their two-month stay. During their stay, the family enjoyed a complimentary trip to Audubon Zoo and our Annual Family Christmas Party that was held in December.
She says, “This is such an amazing place! The staff made sure we had everything we needed and when I was alone, they always made sure I knew they were there to support me.”