This year TEAM BELLA is honoring Dr. Kevin A Martin, who suddenly passed away unexpectedly at the age of 52 from a heart attack on July 1, 2021.  Dr. Martin was a beloved and very well-respected hospitalist at St. Elizabeth since 2003.  It was evident that he was passionate about his work and cared immensely for others.  Dr. Martin was an avid runner and we are excited to continue his legacy and remember him at this special event. 

"Team Bella" was initially founded when Bella was only 2 months old and her team has been a strong supporter of the Heart Mini going on 9 years!  Bella, who is now 8-years-old was found to have a heart murmur on her second day of life.  After a cardiology consult, EKG, and an echocardiogram, Bella was diagnosed with a large Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD).  At Bella's 1-month appointment with the Cardiology Physicians at Cincinnati Children's Medical Center (CCHMC), Bella was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot, which includes the VSD, an atrial septal defect (ASD), an overriding aorta, pulmonary valve stenosis, and hypoplasia of the pulmonary artery.

Bella is truly a heart warrior and underwent extensive open-heart surgery when she was 6 months old at CCHMC to correct her congenital abnormality. Bella is now full of life and has participated in the Heart Mini over the past 8 years.  The Heart Mini has always been encouraging and supportive throughout all of Bella's heart journey.  Without the research and support from the AHA, Bella would not have had the resources that gave her a second chance at life.  After participating in the heart mini each year, Bella has developed a love for running and she enjoys teaching others how to stay heart healthy!

It has been my goal each year as Bella's mother to organize a team in her honor. Without the support and funding for research  from the AHA,  Bella would not have been able to have her life-saving surgery and we would not be blessed with her gracious presence today.