Bella Franco, Barker Creek

Bella describes her mom as her best friend and “the best person ever.”

When her mom was diagnosed with non-alcoholic liver cirrhosis in 2019 – later found to be caused by a rare condition called Köbberling lipodystrophy, it not only led to significant health issues, but medical bills piled up for her family.

As the health disorder took a toll on her mom’s body, Bella’s family faced significant uncertainty, with frequent moves and periods of housing insecurity. They lived in RVs parked on friends’ properties, motels, and short-term rentals for most of her late adolescence and teenage years. 

Despite these challenges, Bella remained focused on her education. She was homeschooled for most of her younger years, but along the way she also attended Woodlands Elementary, Ridgetop Middle School, Klahowya Secondary School, and Olympic High School, before settling in for good with Barker Creek’s Virtual Academy after her family found a more stable housing situation on the Olympic Peninsula. 

Bella looks back fondly on her time in Central Kitsap, especially the friendships and sense of community she found at Klahowya. 

When her mom’s health struggle began, Bella’s family was told her mom only might make it to her high school graduation. This prognosis also made the prospect of graduating a bittersweet time for Bella. 

Fortunately, Bella’s mom was there to celebrate the moment. Diploma in hand, Bella was greeted by a hug from her mom.

Q&A

Plans after graduation: Attending Peninsula College in Port Angeles. She hopes to later attend a four-year college to pursue a career in the medical field – she’s leaning towards a job in pharmaceuticals. Inspired by her mom’s journey, she wants to have a job that helps others. 

Greatest accomplishment in CK Schools: Graduating early from Barker Creek and enduring all of her struggles. 

Favorite memory in CK Schools: Starring as “Willy Wonka” in Central Kitsap School’s summer musical in 2022. 

A piece of advice that’s stuck out to her: “Pain is inevitable, suffering is a choice,” a quote inspired by her mom. 

Where she sees herself in 20 years: She hopes to be in a stable living situation with a part of her liver missing – she’s waiting to hear if she’s a match for a liver transplant. She also hopes to be in a position to pursue one of her passions, art, either professionally or recreationally.