How do you help a little one stay calm when they are struggling to breathe? Well, when eight-year-old Bella needs her puffer, she sings this song

For Bella, that song is more than a few comforting words. It helps her slow down, focus on her breathing, and feel more in control.

“Puff up your chest, take a deep breath, You’re going to be okay. Is it loud in your mind? Just take your time, Everything will be okay.”

Bella lives with asthma, allergies and eczema. Her asthma became more serious after her family’s first COVID infection, when she was still very young. Later infections led to frightening asthma episodes, emergency room visits and even an ambulance ride.

Through it all, Bella remained remarkably positive.

Her mother, Sara, remembers one frightening moment when Bella told paramedics it was her “best day ever”… if only she could breathe.

That moment has stayed with Sara.

Like many parents, she knew asthma could be serious. Sara had experienced herself or seen in other family members. Allergies, stress and change can all be triggers for Bella. Learning how to recognize those triggers and respond calmly has become an important part of their family’s life.

Sara began using the simple song during Bella’s puffer routine. As Bella sings the words quietly to herself, she remembers to breathe deeply, hold her breath and slowly exhale. Most importantly, she feels less afraid.

“At a recent asthma clinic visit, Bella shared the song with the team and they loved it,” says Sara. “If it helps even one child feel less scared and more in control, it is worth sharing.”

Bella’s story is a reminder that asthma is not the same for everyone. Families need clear information, practical tools and trusted support to understand symptoms, identify triggers and know what to do when breathing becomes difficult.

Your generosity helps Asthma Canada provide education and resources that give families like Bella’s more confidence, more knowledge and more hope.