March 2024 Special Needs Living Magazine

Bella’s Tale: Finding Her Voice and Sparkling Colors

Introducing you to Isabella Yoder

BY ANDREA HURR • PHOTOS BY JULIAN CURET

LET’S DIVE DEEP into the amazing world of Isabella, affectionately known as Bella, and her incredible journey in Holmes County. At 14, she’s not just navigating the teenage waters – she’s sailing through them with a uniqueness that defines her spirit and creates a radiant light in her hometown of Sugarcreek!

Her Diagnosis Adventure

Bella’s medical journey started with a series of diagnoses, with GM3 Synthase Deficiency taking center stage. Let’s share the moment that defined the Yoder family’s resilience: As her parents, Craig and Julie Yoder, read the 2019 research study that seemed to underestimate Bella’s communication abilities, they decided not to let it define her. Instead, it fueled their determination to carve a path unique to Bella, not bound by any medical label.

“In 2019, there was a research study published about GM3 Synthase Deficiency (Bella’s main diagnosis),” reflects mom, Julie Yoder. “Bella was a part of the study. As I was reading the findings of the study, one sentence stood out to me: ‘None of the participants achieved reciprocal communication.’ I remember feeling so defeated at the wording of the study because Bella has achieved reciprocal communication! Maybe it doesn’t look like it does when you or I speak, but she understands conversations, responds to them, and has very strong opinions when asked questions! I think as parents of children with disabilities, it’s often so easy to become discouraged by the things “experts” say or that we read, but it’s important to remember that our children will forge their own path. They are all incredible and they are not defined by words on a page!”

Bella’s Interests: Like Any Fourteen-Year-Old Girl

Beyond the medical complexities, Bella’s vibrant personality takes center stage. She’s got a powerful voice and is the life of the party!

Picture this: dancing, grooving to music (especially when she picks the songs), and engaging in conversations using her communication device. She loves to practice swinging for the fences in the Dream League, discovering the joy of baseball that brings a sparkle to her eyes.

“Bella participated in Dream League this past summer,” gushes mom, Julie.

“A local church sponsors this event in the summer. Individuals who would otherwise not have an opportunity to play baseball are paired with a buddy for four weeks and have an opportunity to hit, catch, field, throw, and circle the bases. Bella has let us know on many occasions that she does not enjoy watching her brothers play baseball, but she loved baseball when she was able to participate.”

And then there’s her love for Night to Shine, where she’s excited to wow everyone in a silver dress! With her love for music, the Yoders make plans to take her to concerts at least one or two times a year at Blossom Music Center. So far, she’s seen her favorite, Pentatonix, as well as Backstreet Boys and Jonas Brothers! She’s on track to see New Kids On The Block (though mom isn’t sure how she’ll like them)! These are not just things she loves to do; they are moments that define Bella’s love for life and her ability to shine at every opportunity.

The Incredible Community Behind Bella’s Progress

Julie and Craig Yoder have a huge team to thank! They’ve got massive love for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) at Akron Children’s –thank you Emily, Sarah, and Lindsay – who played a pivotal role in Bella’s journey. Also, a big shoutout to PRC (PrentkeRomich Company) for providing the devices that gave Bella her voice.

Bella’s journey with AAC is nothing short of magical. From her first exposure to AAC at the age of 4 to her current proficiency with the blast level - communicating with thousands of words, Bella’s story is an exemplary illustration of the transformative power of communication technology. The Yoders fondly recall the heartwarming story of how Bella used her communication device to express her wish for a dog, leading to the adoption of Charlie, an Aussie Doodle who quickly became an integral part of the family.

Parental Wisdom and Encouragement to Other Special Needs Families

In the face of challenges, Craig and Julie extend heartfelt gratitude to the supportive community that has surrounded them on this journey. To fellow parents facing the unique challenges of raising children with special needs, the Yoders offer a message of hope. They appreciate the moms who have been a beacon of inspiration, proving that life can be experienced to the fullest, regardless of disabilities:

A special shoutout goes to the teachers and aides at Bella’s school, recognizing the crucial role they play in Bella’s love for school. The Yoders are incredibly grateful! It’s not just about education; it’s about recognizing the vast potential each child holds within.

Bella’s Narrative of Dreams, Passion, and Personality

In the warmth of Holmes County, Bella Yoder’s story unfolds not as a tale of medical complexities but as the narrative of a 14-year-old with dreams, passions, and an undeniably vibrant personality. Her journey stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the transformative power of communication. Through Bella’s story, the Yoders show us firsthand to celebrate the uniqueness of every child and embrace the endless possibilities that lie within the human spirit. In Bella’s world, every challenge is an opportunity, every moment is a chance to shine, and every word spoken through her communication device is a testament to the extraordinary power of finding one’s voice. So here’s to Bella – a shining star, a dancing queen, and an inspiration to us all. May her journey continue to sparkle with joy, resilience, and the unwavering belief that every voice deserves to be heard.

“To the moms who have shown me that it doesn’t matter if our children have a disability, are TPN-dependent, need oxygen, or have a great deal of equipment to bring along...I’m thankful they have shown me that it is still possible to go out in the community and experience life...thank you. To the moms who have faced their worst fears, sat at their child’s bedside in the hospital, received devastating diagnoses and outcomes, yet still persevered and kept fighting for their child...thank you for showing me what grace and love and not giving up look like.”

—JULIE YODER