The UVM women’s hockey team has taken Kayla under their wing. All the players are eager to give her high fives during each home game. Many of them will talk to her before the game, give her piggyback rides, or even sit with her during a game. Every one of the players has a connection with her, but there are several that Kayla loves to pieces.
#17 from the women’s hockey team came to UVM from Bensenville, Illinois. She has played hockey since she was five years old. But there is much more to this player than hockey. I was fortunate enough to meet her mother this past week and get a glimpse of what her life has been like. Not only did I learn quirky facts like she likes her things in her room to match, goes crazy when her brother will go into her bed when she is not home, and has an upscale style of clothing, but I also learned that family is extremely important to her. From her grandmother to her brothers, family comes first.
But what resonated with me the most was that at the age of three she befriended a boy named Jacob. She played with him, helped him when he was having difficulties, stuck up for him, and cared deeply for him. After all, this is what friends do — even if your friend has down syndrome.
The empathy, compassion, and love that #17 shows towards Kayla is beautiful to see. She has taken Kayla trick-or-treating and brought her to the bookstore; she takes her on the ice, sits with her during games, and takes time after the game to hang out with her. She makes Kayla laugh and smile, and accepts her as who she is.
It takes a special person to connect with children with special needs. #17 has that connection with kids to make a difference. Her sense of humor, ability to set limits, fun nature, patience, empathy, and love she has for kids has a positive impact on children, especially those with special needs. Thank you Bella Webster for being an essential part of our lives.
Kayla’s thoughts about Bella: “I just love her”!