Bella Thomson, beloved by millions as Bella Brave on TikTok, has passed away at the tender age of 10.
Her mother, Kyla Thomson, announced the heartbreaking news early on Monday, July 15, sharing that Bella died peacefully on Sunday afternoon, July 14, surrounded by loved ones, per PEOPLE.
In a poignant tribute posted on TikTok, Kyla commemorated Bella’s life with a video of her daughter joyously dancing in a stunning purple gown, set to the poignant 'Never Enough' from The Greatest Showman.
Alongside the clip, Kyla penned: "Our brave girl left her legacy here on earth to dance on streets of gold July 14th 2024 at 4:19pm ET."
"Bella passed peacefully in our arms," Kyla wrote, urging Bella’s followers to keep her memory alive: "Please keep her name on your lips, her memories alive and her bravery in your hearts."
She invited Bella’s community to share stories of how the young star touched their lives, emphasizing Bella’s message of courage and love, concluding with: "Bella would want you to remember; God is love, be brave and you are never too old to bring a stuffy. #bellabrave".
Bella gained fame on social media for her unwavering spirit and positivity despite battling several rare medical conditions throughout her life. Born with a form of dwarfism, Hirschsprung’s Disease, and severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), she and her mother documented their journey together, inspiring countless followers with Bella’s resilience.
Last summer, Bella underwent a critical bowel transplant due to complications from Hirschsprung’s Disease, a condition affecting nerve cells in the large intestine.
Despite hopes that the surgery would end her medical struggles, Bella faced further challenges. Recently, she was admitted to Toronto’s SickKids Hospital after complications from a viral lung infection necessitated her placement in a medically induced coma.
Throughout Bella’s hospitalization, Kyla kept supporters updated on TikTok, sharing the ups and downs of Bella’s health battle. Despite some signs of improvement, Bella’s condition remained precarious.
Nevertheless, Kyla’s updates reflected her unwavering hope and the family’s determination to see Bella through her latest health crisis.
"Bella was fearless," Kyla recalled in a statement to PEOPLE. "Whatever she faced, I never saw fear in her. She taught me bravery."
The loss of Bella Brave has deeply impacted her online community, which continues to share messages of love and support for her family. Kyla has since expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and memories shared by Bella’s followers.
No funeral plans for Bella have been announced at this time.
Bella is survived by her parents, Kyla and Lyle Thomson, and her younger brother, Waylon.
