This Valentine’s, Share the Love with Ella

(February 11, 2013) When Ella Turner of Rockwall learned about The American Heart Association’s Jump Rope for Heart, she knew exactly what she wanted to do – help kids with sick hearts in memory of her little sister, Colby.

The Flower-Box announces its Share The Love 2013 beneficiary

As floral designers, employers at The Flower-Box in Rockwall often meet people during some of life’s most joyful as well as most difficult times. In early May, 2010, Ella and her mom, Usha walked into The Flower Box to select extra special flowers for Ella’s little sister Colby’s memorial service.

“It was a poignant moment none of our staff will ever forget. Our lives as individuals and as floral designers have been immensely enriched through the experience and the gift of knowing this wonderful family,” said Ann Cain, Flower-Box owner. “Ella is wise beyond her years and a dynamic and darling redhead with joy and purpose in her heart. Her goals and accomplishments benefiting American Heart Association’s Jump Rope for Heart in memory of Colby are amazing.”

Meeting or surpassing her goals the past two years, Ella is eager to make this year the best ever and has set a goal of 1,000 donors. Quite a lofty endeavor for a determined eight-year-old.

Ella Turner, Jump Rope for Heart — Ella Turner is raising money through Jump Rope for Heart, in memory of her little sister, Colby. Photo submitted by Neil Turner.

In 2011, The Flower-Box staff decided to try and make Valentine’s something more meaningful for its customers and for the community. Their Share The Love project has worked to benefit others in various ways.

This year, The Flower Box has chosen to Share the Love with Ella. The Flower Box will be donating a portion of every Valentine order that they receive to The American Heart Association through Ella Jumps to Heal Hearts.

“How cool is this,” said Neil Turner, Ella’s dad. “The Flower Box has named one of their Valentine’s Day designs after Ella. Even more special, every Valentine’s Day order – any design – placed through them results in a donation to Ella’s campaign!”

“The Flower-Box is working hard to secure area businesses to partner with us by matching our donation to The American Heart Association Ella Jumps to Heal Hearts,” said Cain. “Ella is just an extra special little girl; her determination is inspiring.”

Colby Turner, Jump Rope for Heart — Colby Turner suffered from Geleophysic Dysplasia, a rare condition that can affect the heart, bones, joints, and skin. Photo submitted by Neil Turner.

If you or your business would be interested in partnering with The Flower Box in supporting Ella’s endeavor, e-mail contact@flower-box.com or call 972-772-3269.

To learn more, visit Ella’s website, which tells her story and how she is sharing that story to help kids with heart conditions and their families. Click on the “Ella’s Story – How it Began” menu button.

Information shared by Ann Cain, The Flower-Box. Photos submitted by Neil Turner.