Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health held a blessing of Bella’s Room at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital on July 31. The blessing was led by Father Paul Yi in conjunction with the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Sisters.
The larger-than-average room provides plenty of space and abundant natural light, allowing loved ones to surround their child in a comfortable environment, often during end-of-life care. The space is in honor of Bella Bowman, a former patient at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital, who passed away after a courageous battle with a brain tumor. Shortly after, the Bella Bowman Foundation was established in her honor. In the years since, the Bowmans have provided families and patients with a sense of home during their stay through comfort care bags, holiday celebrations, and much more.
“Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to children throughout every stage of their healthcare journey,” said Shaun Kemmerly, MD, chief medical officer at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital. “We honor Bella’s memory and how this room prioritizes every family’s need for physical, emotional, and spiritual care.”
Because of Bella's special connection to her faith and Mother Mary, her family commissioned local artist Jacob Zumo to paint a mural in the entryway of the room. After a round of sketches and coordination with the team and Bella's family, the painting of Our Lady of Fatima was created. The project was made possible by a grant awarded from the Sowing Seeds Fund and the McCollister family.
“As an extension of our Mission and the mission of the Bella Bowman Foundation, Bella’s Room serves as a spiritual and healing presence for our families,” said Ann Marie Marmande, president of Our Lady of the Lake Foundation. “We are grateful for the generosity, gifts, and talents of the Bowmans, Jacob Zumo, and the McCollister family. Together, we offer comfort to our patients and families throughout their journey.”