Isabella “Bella” Chambasis: Walking at Graduation Against All Odds

At 17, Isabella Chambasis from Connecticut defied medical expectations by walking at her high school graduation. Diagnosed at 13 with ANCA-associated vasculitis—a rare autoimmune disease—she suffered kidney failure and a debilitating stroke, leading to a month-long coma. After a kidney transplant in 2022 and intensive physical therapy, Bella achieved her goal of walking across the stage, supported by her mother. Her journey, marked by resilience and community support, exemplifies determination in the face of adversity.