09/08/2026
Isabella (Bella) Hansen, an eight-year-old from St. John, New Brunswick, has learned that managing asthma is about understanding her triggers, staying calm and knowing what to do when breathing becomes difficult.
Bella has asthma, along with a strong family history of allergies and eczema. Her symptoms became more serious after her family’s first COVID-19 infection when she was under five, and later worsened following infections that resulted in multiple emergency room visits and even an ambulance ride.
“Despite how scary those moments were, Bella stayed incredibly positive. She told the paramedics it was her ‘best day ever’—if only she could breathe.”
For Bella’s mom, Sara, those experiences highlighted the importance of asthma education and understanding that everyone’s asthma can look different.
“Many people in our family, including myself, have dealt with asthma our whole lives. But Bella’s triggers were different, and it felt much more challenging and scary to navigate.”
Allergies, stress and change are among Bella’s biggest triggers. To help her stay calm during her puffer routine, Sara created a simple song that guides Bella through taking her medication and breathing slowly.
🎵
Puff up your chest, take a deep breath,
You’re going to be okay.
Is it loud in your mind? Just take your time,
Everything will be okay.
🎵
Bella now sings the song in her head while taking her puffer, helping her feel calm, in control and confident.
At a recent asthma clinic visit, she shared the song with her healthcare team, who loved it.
Sara hopes Bella’s story will help other children feel less afraid and encourage families to keep learning about asthma.
“Asthma doesn’t always present the same way in everyone. You want to make sure you have the right knowledge to support the people in your life.”
