1. Introductions + Personal Story

Tell us your name, your role at Bella’s Legacy, and how long you’ve been involved.

Hi! My name is Isobel and I’m the president and co-founder of Bella’s Legacy. I have been involved since the very beginning, so since January of 2025.

What’s your “why”, why did you say yes to joining Bella’s Legacy?

Being a founder, I didn’t exactly say yes to starting Bella’s Legacy in the traditional sense. I started Bella’s Legacy with Stella on drives home from CNA school at night, spending hours meticulously going over everything to make sure that the charity was as close to perfect as we could get it. My ‘why’ in this journey has always been Bella, and turning her loss into something that could make a lasting difference and impact in cardiovascular research and care. Founding Bella’s Legacy gave me a way to honor and remember Bella while also building a community devoted to changing the future of heart health.

What personal experiences, values, or passions drive your commitment to our mission?

As one of the founders, Bella’s Legacy has always been close to my heart, and my commitment to our mission was something I chose, and continue to choose, every day. Knowing Bella was a gift I’ll always be grateful for, and I feel lucky to be able to share her story and her heart with more and more people. Bella’s memory is what drives me forward. I believe strongly that funding and research can save lives, and I’m determined to be part of making that progress a reality.

What’s one thing people might not know about you, etc. a fun fact or a hidden talent?

A fun fact about me is that I have the top 200 most commonly used drugs in the U.S. memorized – brand names, generics, indications, uses, and dosages. The less fun side of that story is that I picked it up in pharmacy technician school, which mostly taught me one thing: I never want to work as a pharmacy technician.

2. Reflecting on the Past Year

What was a highlight of 2025 for Bella’s Legacy in your eyes?

A highlight for me was seeing Bella’s Legacy truly come to life via our skating show. Watching people show up not only just to support us, but because they truly believed in our mission, reminded me that what started as an idea in a car ride home with Stella is something real, with real impact. That moment of seeing our vision move from paper to people was unforgettable.

What moment from the past year made you feel proud to be part of this team?

The moment that stands out most to me was Bellathon Summer ‘25, when we raised 364% of our initial goal. It wasn’t just about the number, it was knowing that every dollar represented someone’s trust in us and in Bella’s Legacy. I am so proud of the dedication, collaboration, and heart on this team that every single person poured in to make that event successful. It made me confident that we are building something that will last.

 3. Looking Ahead to 2026

What are you most excited about for Bella’s Legacy in 2026?

I’m most excited to see Bella’s Legacy step into its first full official year with real momentum. We’ve spent so much time building the foundation, and 2026 finally feels like the year everything begins to bloom. We have the right team, the right ambassadors, and the right structure to reach our first major fundraising milestones. I’m excited to see our community grow around a mission that truly matters.

Do you have any personal hopes or goals for the organization this year?

My personal hope is that we continue connecting with the families we serve in meaningful ways. I want our work to feel and be human, grounded in compassion, visibility, and genuine impact. One concrete goal I have is to build more direct relationships with patients and families in cardiac care at Connecticut Children’s Hospital.

If you could see us accomplish one big thing in 2026, what would it be?I

f I had to choose just one big accomplishment for 2026 (which is difficult, because there are so many), it would be surpassing the $10k fundraising mark. Being able to donate a sum that significant would prove that we can make a real difference, and that our mission of transforming cardiac care is within reach as long as we keep climbing.

What’s one change or growth you’d like to help lead this year?

I’d love to help lead us into becoming a more structured and recognizable organization, with clear programs, a strong ambassador and volunteer base, and a consistent annual event calendar. I want Bella’s Legacy to become something people trust, turn to, and feel proud to stand behind.

 4. Personal Goals + Reflections

Do you have a personal New Year’s resolution or word for 2026?

I have tons of personal goals for 2026, it’s a big year for me! I’m starting my first year of college at NYU in London, so my primary goal is to just survive. But I also hope to work more as a CNA, explore Europe, and see as many Broadway shows as I possibly can. Moulin Rouge at least 5 times. 

What motivates you going into this new year, inside or outside of Bella’s?

I am very motivated by future promises, for both inside and outside Bella’s. The promise of something changing, working out, or being achieved is always enough to keep me going no matter what. For school, the promise of one day becoming a pediatric cardiologist and working to help the very kids we fundraise for is what keeps me on track. 

 5. Legacy + Connection

What does the word “legacy” mean to you personally?

To me, legacy means creating something that continues to make the world a better place long after we’re gone. It’s the impact that we leave behind, the lives we touch, and the changes that we set in motion just by living. Bella’s Legacy has been, and always will be, about honoring a story with action and progress. A legacy is built through acts of kindness, breakthroughs, and people helped over time. 

What do you hope people remember about Bella years from now?

I hope people remember Bella as a force for good, but mostly I hope people remember her laugh. It had a way of just making you feel like everything was instantly better, instantly okay even in the worst situations. When I remember or think about Bella, it’s her laugh that I go to first. Years from now, though, I hope people can point to real advancements in cardiac healthcare, real lives saved, and real communities supported and be able to say “Bella did that”. 

How can people best support Bella’s Legacy this year, in big or small ways?

There are so many ways to make an impact, big or small in our community. And believe me, there’s nothing TOO big and nothing TOO small. Telling someone about Bella’s Legacy, sharing posts, inviting friends to come to events, and anything of the sort is our biggest support. We rely and thrive off of word of mouth, and community connection. Participating in our events as well is essential to helping us keep our growth! Whether it’s coming to our show, joining our virtual events, or coming to our picnic, your presence strengthens our message and our momentum. Donating is always appreciated, of course, and every dollar helps us move closer to funding more advancements for the cardiology department at Connecticut Children’s Hospital. Even small contributions add up in powerful ways. Volunteering for us means the world, and we can use all the help we get! And of course, remember Bella and lead with heart in everything you do. 

 6. Just for Fun

If Bella’s Legacy had a theme song for 2026, what would it be? 

I would say “Come What May.”

What’s one thing that always makes you smile, no matter what?

Seeing Moulin Rouge on Broadway. I’ve seen it 12 times so far, and I have tickets to see it again this January. Of all of the addictions one can have, I suppose it’s on the better end. 

What’s something small you’re looking forward to this year, a trip, a hobby, a book, etc.?

I am really looking forwards to starting school in August. I’ve waited a long time to finish out skating, and I’m so excited to move on to the next chapter of my life there.

1. Introductions + Personal Story

Tell us your name, your role at Bella’s Legacy, and how long you’ve been involved.

My name is Julia Hardesty, I am one of the board members and I have been with Bella’s Legacy since it began in December 2025.

What’s your “why”, why did you say yes to joining Bella’s Legacy?

I joined Bella’s Legacy as a close friend of our founders and as a passionate figure skater. Although I never had the chance to meet Bella, hearing her story and how passionate she was about everything in life drew me to take part in honoring her legacy. 

What personal experiences, values, or passions drive your commitment to our mission?

As a pediatric nurse, preventative healthcare and awareness of conditions that affect children in our world is so important to me. Being able to spread awareness and bring to light the types of conditions that may not be commonly known or discussed, gives me hope for the future of medical research and hopefully improving the lives of people impacted by cardiovascular disease.

What’s one thing people might not know about you, etc. a fun fact or a hidden talent?

I design, sew, and rhinestone figure skating dresses for myself and other skaters with my own small business!

2. Reflecting on the Past Year

What was a highlight of 2025 for Bella’s Legacy in your eyes?

Seeing the collective effort of everyone involved in the project come to fruition at our first annual skating show was such a beautiful gesture, showing us how many people Bella had an impact on and how much people want to support the work we are doing.

What moment from the past year made you feel proud to be part of this team?

Learning that we were able to make our first donation to Connecticut Children’s Medical Center after the show in April and knowing that our efforts are paying off.

 3. Looking Ahead to 2026

What are you most excited about for Bella’s Legacy in 2026?

I am excited to see how our ambassador program grows and how Bella’s Legacy is able to diversify our outreach through exciting new fundraising initiatives!

Do you have any personal hopes or goals for the organization this year?

My hope for this year is that we continue to find ways to remember Bella and make her impact felt by people who did not get the privilege of meeting her. I hope that her legacy can continue to grow and inspire others to take action through supporting our organization.

If you could see us accomplish one big thing in 2026, what would it be?

I would love to see our annual show have a turnout even bigger than last year and be able to raise more money for medical research. I would also love to see us partner with bigger organizations and hospitals to further Bella’s impact.

What’s one change or growth you’d like to help lead this year?

I would like to help spread awareness of Bella’s Legacy to those outside of the figure skating world and bring in supporters who are curious to learn about Bella and how she has impacted each and every one of us. 

 4. Personal Goals + Reflections

Do you have a personal New Year’s resolution or word for 2026?

My word for 2026 is perseverance. When things in life knock you down, it is easy to let it hold you back from taking the next step toward your goals. In 2026, I want to remember that persevering through even the hardest moments will help you grow into who you were always meant to be.

What motivates you going into this new year, inside or outside of Bella’s?

What motivates me is the possibility of new beginnings. Within Bella’s Legacy, we have so many new opportunities to share and hopefully new doors continue to open for our organization. In my personal life, finding my path and what I truly want to put my energy into is giving me hope in finding a better understanding of myself and what I want my impact on the world to be.

 5. Legacy + Connection

What does the word “legacy” mean to you personally?

The word legacy represents carrying on the memory of someone who made an impact, no matter how small, and living life to the fullest, always remembering them and the difference they made in people’s lives.

What do you hope people remember about Bella years from now?

I hope that people remember Bella’s passion and perseverance, not only to become the skater she was, but the kind, caring, and resilient person that she was and how much she was cared about by the people close to her.

How can people best support Bella’s Legacy this year, in big or small ways?

Continuing to spread the word about our organization either by reposting our Instagram posts, replying Bella’s merch, or joining in on our fundraising opportunities, and letting your family and friends know about Bella and her impact.

 6. Just for Fun

Bella’s Legacy had a theme song for 2026, what would it be?

 Don’t Lose Sight by Lawrence

What’s one thing that always makes you smile, no matter what?

My orange cat, Gus will always make me smile!

What’s something small you’re looking forward to this year, a trip, a hobby, a book, etc.?

Something I’m looking forward to this year is working on collaging and creative journaling more!

1. Introductions + Personal Story

Tell us your name, your role at Bella’s Legacy, and how long you’ve been involved.

I’m Kassie Carpentier, I am co-owner, treasurer and on the board for Bella’s Legacy. I joined the team in the winter of 2025. 

What’s your “why”, why did you say yes to joining Bella’s Legacy?

I’m part of Bella’s Legacy because Bella wasn’t just my best friend — she was my person. We grew up side by side, dreaming of a lifetime ahead. When her life was taken at just 20 by a cardiovascular condition, the loss was unimaginable. Bella’s light, joy, and love were too powerful to fade. Through Bella’s Legacy, I honor who she was by raising awareness for heart health and carrying her spirit forward. This isn’t just remembrance — it’s a promise that Bella is never forgotten, and that her heart continues to make a difference.

What’s one thing people might not know about you, etc. a fun fact or a hidden talent?

I started skating at 18 months old.

2. Reflecting on the Past Year

What was a highlight of 2025 for Bella’s Legacy in your eyes?

Our Skate with your Heart event was the most memorable Bella’s event that we hosted this year. It was our kickoff event that shot us into the nonprofit sphere. It was so beautiful to see the community come together, from the skaters, to the board members, to the audience, to support our cause. It helped set such a positive tone for the rest of the events that we held this year.

What moment from the past year made you feel proud to be part of this team?

 3. Looking Ahead to 2026

What are you most excited about for Bella’s Legacy in 2026?

I am excited for us to establish and implement new programs like our ambassador program and Bella’s Art Studio. These two programs will be a great way for us to spread our reach farther than just Connecticut!

Do you have any personal hopes or goals for the organization this year?

I hope that each event becomes more successful than the last. 

If you could see us accomplish one big thing in 2026, what would it be?

I hope that our next Skate with your Heart is even bigger than the first! Our first show taught us a lot about management, tech, and problem solving. We will take these lessons and make our next show even better than the first and I hope the audience in attendance reflects our improvements.

 4. Personal Goals + Reflections

Do you have a personal New Year’s resolution or word for 2026?

This year, my New Year’s resolution isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about continuing the journey I’m already on. For the first time, I’m ending the year feeling aligned, grounded, and genuinely excited for what lies ahead. Instead of “new year, new me,” I’m choosing “new year, same path—deeper purpose.” I feel exactly where I’m meant to be, and I’m moving forward with intention, trust, and gratitude.

 5. Legacy + Connection

What does the word “legacy” mean to you personally?

To me, legacy is a persons impact, their presence, and the lasting imprint left with the people who carry them forward. 

What do you hope people remember about Bella years from now?

More than the foundation, I hope people remember the face and the life behind Bella’s Legacy—Bella herself. Her joy, her kindness, and the love she gave are what truly define her legacy.

How can people best support Bella’s Legacy this year, in big or small ways?

Supporting the foundation can be as simple as sharing our mission, attending events, or spreading awareness about heart health in young people. For those able, donations, fundraising, or volunteering help us grow our impact and ensure Bella’s legacy lives on by helping others. Every act of support—no matter the size—means more than you know and helps turn loss into purpose.

 6. Just for Fun

If Bella’s Legacy had a theme song for 2026, what would it be? 

I lived – One Republic 

This song really hits home but I believe that it truly symbolizes living life to its fullest each and every single day which has always been my moto but even more so now in Bella’s honor. 

What’s one thing that always makes you smile, no matter what?

Being with my dogs never fails to make me smile 

1. Introductions + Personal Story

Tell us your name, your role at Bella’s Legacy, and how long you’ve been involved.

I’m Anh-Minh Phan, and I serve as one of the board members for Bella’s Legacy. I joined the team in the winter of 2025.

What’s your “why”, why did you say yes to joining Bella’s Legacy?

As one of Isobel’s students, I felt honored when she asked me to be part of Bella’s Legacy. Over the time that she has coached me, we have grown very close and I was touched that she wanted me to be part of a project that meant so much to her. Aside from that, I am a very service driven person and I love to help my community wherever I can. From volunteering in high school and running my schools volunteering club to now working as a board member for Bella’s, I commit myself to making an impact on my community wherever I can. These two reasons are my biggest reasons for saying yes to joining Bella’s Legacy. 

What personal experiences, values, or passions drive your commitment to our mission?

As I mentioned before, I am a very service oriented person. I served as the President of my high schools Key Club, where I organized volunteering event around my town community and worked within the school to grow our club member by member. I feel so grateful for the community around me and what it has provided for me growing up, that I feel a duty to give back. I have been so lucky to be born able bodied and with the ability and the time to help those who may not have been as fortunate. Bella’s Legacy is a way for me to give back and commit myself to helping others who may not be able to help themselves.

What’s one thing people might not know about you, etc. a fun fact or a hidden talent?

I have an absolutely horrible sense of direction. I don’t know how or why, but if you ever need directions anywhere… don’t ask me! 

2. Reflecting on the Past Year

What was a highlight of 2025 for Bella’s Legacy in your eyes?

Our Skate with your Heart event was the most memorable Bella’s event that we hosted this year. It was our kickoff event that shot us into the nonprofit sphere. It was so beautiful to see the community come together, from the skaters, to the board members, to the audience, to support our cause. It helped set such a positive tone for the rest of the events that we held this year.

What moment from the past year made you feel proud to be part of this team?

The planning and execution of the summer Bellathon truly cemented to me how amazing our team AND our community is. It was so inspiring to see all the members work so hard to get the Bellathon up and running, and it was truly amazing to see how many of our community members participated and donated to our cause. I am so proud to be part of such a hardworking team.

 3. Looking Ahead to 2026

What are you most excited about for Bella’s Legacy in 2026?

I am excited for us to establish and implement new programs like our ambassador program and Bella’s Art Studio. These two programs will be a great way for us to spread our reach farther than just Connecticut!

Do you have any personal hopes or goals for the organization this year?

I hope that we will be able to expand our team and our ambassador program. As a small team, we have already made such an impact. I can only imagine our impact growing as the spread of Bella’s Legacy grows as well!

If you could see us accomplish one big thing in 2026, what would it be?

I hope that our next Skate with your Heart is even bigger than the first! Our first show taught us a lot about management, tech, and problem solving. We will take these lessons and make our next show even better than the first and I hope the audience in attendance reflects our improvements.

What’s one change or growth you’d like to help lead this year?

I hope to spread the word of Bella’s Legacy on college campuses. As a freshman in college, I see a lot of my peers looking for ways to get involved in their community and not knowing what steps to take. It is difficult to find ways to get involved on my campus personally because there is a lack of transportation for the underclassmen. Bella’s Legacy’s ambassador program would be a great way for students to get more involved and I would love to be part of the process!

 4. Personal Goals + Reflections

Do you have a personal New Year’s resolution or word for 2026?

Every year I tell myself that I’ll reinvent myself for the new year. This year, I hope to finally see my resolutions through! I hope to teach myself that it’s okay to begin things even if they’re imperfect, and that habits take time! We’ll see by the end of 2026 if my resolutions come true!

What motivates you going into this new year, inside or outside of Bella’s?

The people around me motivate me to keep going, both inside and outside of Bella’s. At Bella’s, I am so incredibly lucky to be part of such a driven and caring team. They often remind me why we’re fighting so hard for our cause. Outside of Bella’s, I watch as my friends and family work hard to accomplish their goals, no matter the obstacles. I am inspired and in awe of our team, my friends, and my family for all that they do—they are what keeps me motivated!

 5. Legacy + Connection

What does the word “legacy” mean to you personally?

To me, your “legacy” is how people remember you. It’s the impact that you’ve made on others throughout your lifetime and how they think about you once you’ve passed on. It’s the stories that they tell about your fond memories together and the actions they take to keep your memory alive.

What do you hope people remember about Bella years from now?

Although I never knew Bella personally, I can feel the impact that she had on the lives of those around her. She seemed like such a bright and creative spirit who brought light to those around her. I hope that people remember how she lit up the room with her presence and how bright her smile was, even in the face of adversity. 

How can people best support Bella’s Legacy this year, in big or small ways?

All support matters, big or small! Simply reposting our social media posts or following our Instagram helps get the word out about our foundation. Showing up and participating in our events and donating to our foundation also helps support our cause. No matter what you do, engaging with Bella’s Legacy helps us continue to fight for our mission.

 6. Just for Fun

If Bella’s Legacy had a theme song for 2026, what would it be? 

Good Days by SZA! I believe that many great days for our foundation are ahead of us and I can’t wait to see what they bring. 

What’s one thing that always makes you smile, no matter what?

My cats! I absolutely adore the two of them. After a long day out or coming home from campus, it’s so comforting seeing their faces and being able to snuggle up with them on the couch.

What’s something small you’re looking forward to this year, a trip, a hobby, a book, etc.?

As my board member introduction says, I am currently a college freshman. I’m looking forward to experiencing the rest of my freshman year! I’ve really enjoyed all the people that I’ve met and the community that I’ve built on campus and I can’t wait to make more memories with the ones around me.

1. Introductions + Personal Story

Tell us your name, your role at Bella’s Legacy, and how long you’ve been involved.

My name is Tarin Santos, and I’m one of the board members for Bella’s Legacy. I joined the team in May of 2025. 

What’s your “why”, why did you say yes to joining Bella’s Legacy?

Cardiovascular disease affects more individuals than the average person realizes. It is an incredibly common issue, and yet there is so little awareness and dedication to the research surrounding it. Bella’s Legacy is committed to education, support, and empathy. It is important to me that those suffering from cardiovascular disease know that there are people fighting for them.

What personal experiences, values, or passions drive your commitment to our mission?

As a disabled individual myself, I understand how disheartening it can be to know that there isn’t nearly enough research contributed to finding treatments and cures. Sometimes that lack of research halts a diagnosis in the first place. Bella’s Legacy strives to change that.

Furthermore, our charity is founded on compassion. I always want to be someone who cares, and knows how to. Being a part of this organization has already allowed me to learn so much, and therefore teach others about how to be more impactful in their every day efforts to make this world a better, more welcoming, and more tenacious place for individuals with cardiovascular complications.

What’s one thing people might not know about you, etc. a fun fact or a hidden talent?

In my Board Member introduction, I mention that I am a multi-faceted creative. I always think its sort of fun to list off what I mean by that: Primarily, I am a creative fiction writer, I am a two-time published author with ambitions to continue into multiple novels; I enjoy sewing, which is anywhere between making my own casual wear and creating elaborate cosplays; Like Bella, but not with nearly as much talent, I dabble in multiple mediums of visual and fine arts; I enjoy acting and singing, even though I’m not great at the latter; and I also enjoy posting all of these things through content creation via Twitch, TikTok, and Instagram.

2. Reflecting on the Past Year

What was a highlight of 2025 for Bella’s Legacy in your eyes?

While I didn’t get to attend this year, the Skate With your Heart event this past April did wonders at solidifying Bella’s Legacy into the world of fundraising. I know a lot of work was put into it to make it as successful as possible, considering the organization had been established for less than a month. Seeing from afar the dedication, the turnout, and the absolute love behind everyone in attendance confirmed that this was something we could truly make a difference with. 

What moment from the past year made you feel proud to be part of this team?

Bella’s Seattle Birthday Party! It was the first West Coast event, and was such a lovely get-together to lead. While small, everyone who turned up was genuinely happy to be there, to paint hearts, and to just enjoy each other’s company around a table. This, combined with getting to see the turnout for the Connecticut event, made me so excited about what is to come.

 3. Looking Ahead to 2026

What are you most excited about for Bella’s Legacy in 2026?

I’m super excited to get the ball rolling on Bella’s Art Studio. I think its such a great way to integrate the cause with something Bella absolutely would have loved. I’m interested to see what kind of pieces students will donate, and further, how we can spread the word and the program to other college campuses. 

Do you have any personal hopes or goals for the organization this year?

I absolutely want to be more involved! It can be hard from a distance, but being able to virtually attend meetings and take on delegated tasks is something that I think is going to help the rest of our team. I’m hoping to use my creativity to Bella’s Legacy’s advantage by coming up with methods and solutions that might be outside of the box. Whether this be a new event or new merch ideas, I don’t know, but stick around to find out. 

If you could see us accomplish one big thing in 2026, what would it be?

Outreach! I really want 2026 to be a year of spreading the word about Bella’s Legacy. I know that charities don’t necessarily do ‘great’ on social media, especially since the subject of cardiovascular disease isn’t something that would necessarily grab your casual scroller’s attention without some serious creative methods. While I don’t think Bella’s Legacy is going to become a household name in one year, I would love to see it be well known in the spheres of cardiovascular research. 

What’s one change or growth you’d like to help lead this year?

I would absolutely love to host a bigger PNW or two event this year! Being able to make this a nationwide known charity is something that is important to me, and that means spreading the word online and in person. I know these events will be primarily attended by friends and family of mine at first, but I can at the very least introduce the charity to some people who aren’t in my circle.

 4. Personal Goals + Reflections

Do you have a personal New Year’s resolution or word for 2026?

Ambition. I have always been an ambitious person. Going into 2026, I have new long term goals, something I haven’t had since I was able to self-publish my novel, Dagger Eyes, in 2022, and graduate University in 2024. My New Year’s resolution is to have a strong work ethic and dedication towards completing my new goals. I want to accomplish all of the small things that I’ve been putting on the back burner for years. 

What motivates you going into this new year, inside or outside of Bella’s?

I live to make a difference in this world. I want to be someone that spreads positivity through my every day interactions, through the content and art that I make, and by putting my money and attention towards all the right things. Its impossible for one person to make the world a better place, but I can do my best to make someone have a better day, or pave the path for people to build off of whatever legacy I leave myself. 

I want to make little me enthusiastic, my friends and family proud, and strangers smile.

 5. Legacy + Connection

What does the word “legacy” mean to you personally?

Legacy is the stories we tell long after something or someone is gone. It’s the moments we are reminded of them, the moments that make us smile for a second at an unrelated spark of recognition. Legacy is doing things in the name of our connection to the past, whether it be our lost friends, our family members, or those we admire. It’s making the world in an image that fits a little closer to what that someone believed in. 

What do you hope people remember about Bella years from now?

I could say something big, like her art, her kindness, or her tenacity, but I think there is something just as precious about the little things. I hope people remember the starting sound of her laugh, or the creases in her face when she smiled. I hope they remember the changes in the inflection of her voice when she was talking about something she was passionate about. I hope they remember the outfits she used to wear, the color she tended to pick when playing board games. All of the small things that showed what made Bella, Bella. Even if its not the overarching core of what her Legacy is, it is the tiny roots and branches of the person she was.

How can people best support Bella’s Legacy this year, in big or small ways?

Spread the word and buy some merch! We have a lot of super exciting things coming up this year that you should keep an eye on. There are so many causes in this world asking for your support, so it can be hard to choose where to put your money, especially if you’re someone who may not have the means to support yourself sometimes. Sharing our content with others, through reposts or comments on social media, does more than you think. If you see something in our shop that you might like to snag for yourself or your friend, do so! I know I’ve already put a piece of Bella’s merch in my White Elephant gift.

 6. Just for Fun

If Bella’s Legacy had a theme song for 2026, what would it be? 

Love Over Glory by Zinadelphia

What’s one thing that always makes you smile, no matter what?

Crows!!! I love them a lot, I think they are such funky lil birds. I feed them, talk to them, dress as though I’m one that’s been turned into a human… because I feel like it, not because I am secretly one or anything… This obsession may or may not have led our President, Isobel Carney to start reading a book on the neurobiology of crows. I also recently sent one of our other board members, Julia Rodman, a giant guide on how to befriend them. If you want one too, hit me up, why not. I’ll take any excuse to spread my crow-loving agenda.

What’s something small you’re looking forward to this year, a trip, a hobby, a book, etc.?

I cannot express how excited I am to start grad school this year! I haven’t made my decision on where to go yet, but in two years I’ll have a Masters of Library and Information Science under my belt, and an insatiable urge to make a difference using my profession. 

Other than that, I am hoping to finally pursue getting my debut novel, Demon’s Lullaby, traditionally published, but that has been a back burner goal for a while.

1. Introductions + Personal Story

Tell us your name, your role at Bella’s Legacy, and how long you’ve been involved.

My name is Julia Rodman, and I’m one of the board members for Bella’s Legacy. I am a recent addition who joined in September of 2025. 

What’s your “why”, why did you say yes to joining Bella’s Legacy?

I was drawn to Bella’s Legacy because of the profound impact Bella had on so many people in the much too short time she was alive. The love, creativity, and joy she brought into the world are evident in the community that continues to carry her forward. Saying yes to joining the board felt like a meaningful way to honor her life—not only by remembering who she was, but by transforming that remembrance into action.

What personal experiences, values, or passions drive your commitment to our mission?

I am driven by a deep passion for storytelling and the power it has to create awareness, empathy, and action. Throughout my life, I’ve seen how sharing meaningful stories can shine a light on health issues that often do not receive enough attention, funding, or research. Bella’s Legacy represents an opportunity to honor a powerful story while using it to educate, inspire, and mobilize a broader community around cardiovascular health. Contributing my skills and values to this mission allows me to help ensure that important conversations continue—and that awareness leads to real impact.

What’s one thing people might not know about you, etc. a fun fact or a hidden talent?

One thing people might not know about me is that I’m quite musically inclined. I started playing the piano at the age of five and took lessons for ten years, performing in numerous recitals along the way. While I no longer take formal lessons, music has remained an important part of my life. I have a piano in my home and still love to sit down and play purely for the joy of it—it’s a creative outlet and a way I relax and recharge.

2. Reflecting on the Past Year

What was a highlight of 2025 for Bella’s Legacy in your eyes?

Bella’s Birthday Celebration was a highlight for me because it was my first Bella’s Legacy event. Experiencing the strength and warmth of the community in person was incredibly meaningful. It was inspiring to see both longtime friends and people newly connected to Bella’s story come together to celebrate her life, share memories, and form new relationships.

What moment from the past year made you feel proud to be part of this team?

What made me feel especially proud to be part of this team was getting to know my fellow board members. While we are all aligned in our shared goals and commitment to Bella’s Legacy, each person brings a unique perspective, skill set, and energy to the table. The collaboration, mutual respect, and genuine care everyone has for the mission make this an inspiring group to work alongside.

3. Looking Ahead to 2026

What are you most excited about for Bella’s Legacy in 2026?

I am especially excited about the Bella’s Legacy Show at the Newington Ice Rink in May 2026. After the success and lessons learned from last year’s event, we now have a strong foundation to build upon. I believe this year’s show has the potential to be even more impactful.

Do you have any personal hopes or goals for the organization this year?

This year, I hope to play a larger and more active role as a board member, including potentially spearheading or helping lead events. As someone who is relatively new to nonprofit volunteer work, I’m excited to continue learning while also finding meaningful ways to contribute. Being part of this work is both motivating and deeply rewarding, and I’m eager to see how I can make a difference in the year ahead.

If you could see us accomplish one big thing in 2026, what would it be?

If I could see Bella’s Legacy accomplish one big thing in 2026, it would be bringing Bella’s Art Studio fully to fruition. This new program has the potential to engage universities across the country and provide art students with a meaningful platform to share their work. Bella was an incredibly enthusiastic and talented artist, and I can’t think of a more fitting way to honor her passion than by empowering others to create and express themselves through art in her name.

What’s one change or growth you’d like to help lead this year?

As the head of Bella’s Legacy Ambassador Program, one change or area of growth I’d like to help lead this year is the thoughtful integration of our new group of ambassadors. I’m excited to create meaningful opportunities for them to contribute in ways that align with their individual strengths and passions, while also deepening their connection to the mission. I hope to help build a motivated ambassador community that expands Bella’s Legacy’s reach and impact.

4. Personal Goals + Reflections

Do you have a personal New Year’s resolution or word for 2026?

My personal goal for 2026 centers on commitment. I want to follow through on projects and goals I’ve always wanted to pursue, giving my best effort to everything I do. No more waiting—this is the year for action, focus, and making meaningful progress both personally and in the work I care about.

What motivates you going into this new year, inside or outside of Bella’s?

Going into this new year, I’m motivated by the desire to be the kind of person I needed when I was a young girl. I hope to take my personal experiences, lessons learned, and times of growth and use them to offer guidance, support, and different perspectives to others. Whether inside or outside of Bella’s Legacy, I want to help create opportunities for growth and empowerment.

5. Legacy + Connection

What does the word “legacy” mean to you personally?

To quote one of my favorite broadway musicals Hamilton: “What is a legacy? It’s planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.” This idea deeply resonates with me because it captures the essence of doing something meaningful today, not for immediate recognition, but in the hope that it will grow and flourish long after we’re gone. Legacy is about believing that our actions—no matter how small—can ripple outward and create positive change for others, even if we never witness the full impact ourselves.

What do you hope people remember about Bella years from now?

I hope people remember the love and sense of community that Bella inspired and that continues to thrive within Bella’s Legacy. From our members and ambassadors to supporters, friends, and family, we are all part of a close-knit group united by shared values and hopes. I want people to carry forward the spirit of connection, generosity, and joy that Bella brought to everyone around her, knowing that her influence continues to bring people together and create meaningful impact long after her time with us

How can people best support Bella’s Legacy this year, in big or small ways?

The smallest acts can make a huge difference in supporting Bella’s Legacy. Whether it’s sharing our message on social media, telling friends and family about our work, or participating in our events, every effort helps raise awareness and furthers our mission

6. Just for Fun

If Bella’s Legacy had a theme song for 2026, what would it be?

Changes by David Bowie. Turn and face the strange.

What’s one thing that always makes you smile, no matter what?

Animals. Specifically my cat Leia and my dog Millie. They are the reason I get out of bed in the morning. Literally.

What’s something small you’re looking forward to this year, a trip, a hobby, a book, etc.?

My first ever figure skating competition in Lake Placid! I will be competing just ten months after starting the sport. I love the discipline and challenges that come with figure skating, but most importantly the community it has brought me.