Isabella's Story ~ Original Message From 2015:

~ We are ready to start "giving back" but we need your help!! We knew we wanted to do something for the oncology kids that were inpatient at Duke; we just didn't know what. Something that we can make an annual project! So I asked Isabella what was the ONE thing that she wanted at the hospital while inpatient, and her response was "a friend." She calls all of her stuffed animals, friends! They always try to have a stuffed friend on the beds when they are first admitted to the hospital. Isabella has always enjoyed receiving a new friend! She has received countless new friends upon being diagnosed with Leukemia. Being more specific, she has received 3 Build-a-Bear friends since she has been sick. The first one, the very first night she was admitted/diagnosed. They have brought her so much comfort and joy. We want to share that with other sick kids! This is why we chose to go with Build-a-Bear. We want each friend to have one outfit; no accessories. We want to raise enough money, to build as many friends as possible, and deliver them to the hospital to brighten another child's day. We will use coupons, shop clearance, and make the most out of the money we raise! Please join with us for these kids; whether it is $5, $10, $25, or $100 it will go a long way. I promise!! Please share our campaign so Friends From Isabella can have a very successful first year! ~2015 Thank you, Isabella & Family