Princess Bella's Big Top Carnival

As Miss Staten Island, I meet so many truly incredible people. Last June, I met Pina Harvey at the Gianna Nicole's Heart of Hope Gala. Pina, whose oldest daughter Isabella has leukemia, is an amazing woman with an equally amazing family. Isabella decided that she wanted to give back to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to help other kids who are sick. To that end, the Harvey family and friends created "Team Princess Bella's Big Top Carnival for Kids."  I was honored to be invited to support.

When we arrived at Carnival Kids Play Place, we were greeted by all of the Harvey children as soon as we stepped inside…even Michael Harvey, who is usually pretty shy, came to say hello. All of them are so adorable! My mom sold tickets as I greeted the guests, played with the kids and took pictures. Of course, I just had to buy some basket raffle tickets. I have an addiction, I think!

When it came time to call the raffles, I was assisted by Bella, Alyssa, and some of their very capable friends. As luck would have it, the first ticket Bella pulled was mine! I swear I had nothing to do with it! I won a Scentsy candle wax warmer, something I was going to order for myself anyway! My Mom won a basket, as well.

Once the baskets were called, we helped clean up and said our goodbyes, but not before we got our adorable "popcorn cupcake" favors. The carnival raised about $1,300 for LLS. I am humbled by this family and their conviction to help others, especially Bella who has gone through so much herself and still put others before herself. I look forward to having Bella and her family in my life for a very, very long time.