It has been 15 years since Bradford Elementary School fourth grader Isabella Rose Pugliano, passed away suddenly at the age of 9 from a previously unknown heart condition, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy which often goes undetected but is treatable. Shortly after her passing, Bradford dedicated “Isabella’s Garden,” in her honor. On Wed., May 29, with Isabella’s family in attendance, Bradford held a rededication ceremony that included the poem “Remember Me” by Maragaret Mead and an original song, “There’s a Rose in our Garden,” written and performed by Mr. Lewis Robinson, the Bradford Singers and the Student Council members.
Principal Frances Aboushi gave the opening remarks. “We are here to honor the memory of our beloved student Isabella, and although I never had the honor of meeting her, Isabella clearly left an indelible mark on many hearts here at Bradford.”
“Today we rededicate this space in memory of Isabella, ensuring that her spirit will remain an integral part of our school,” she continued. “This ceremony is a reminder of the importance of cherishing each moment and the impact one person can have on so many lives. Let her memory inspire us to be the best versions of ourselves and to always support one another and let us hold Isabella’s memory close to our hearts and continue to celebrate her life by spreading kindness and joy in all that we do.”
Isabella’s Garden is a native pollinator garden. A pollinator garden contains flowers that produce nectar or pollen for pollinating insects, such as bees, butterflies, moths and hummingbirds.
The garden currently contains over 50 different kinds of flowering plants. The overwhelming majority are native plants, and all attract pollinators. The goal has been to rejuvenate the garden into a place that attracts both pollinators and people to showcase the beauty of New Jersey wildlife.
Over the past two years, the Bradford’s Green team, represented by parent Andrea Walther-Puri and teachers Dr. Ellen Cahill and Ms. Marcie Chanin, the Student Council and advisor Ms. Helena Tamasco, as well as countless volunteers who gave their time or donated to the project, have worked in unison to revitalize Isabella’s Garden.
Tamasco said Isabella has had a lasting impact on the Bradford community. “She was a happy little girl, always smiling and had a kind demeanor.” The garden is right outside the music room, appropriately, as Isabella was fond of the arts and a member of the Bradford singers. Tamasco hopes the revitalization will not only keep Isabella’s memory alive but will be “a symbol of unity and calm serenity.”
Isabella’s family (pictured above) continues to advocate and raise awareness of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy through The American Heart Association.