Ella Never Gives Up!

Mishka, age 7, Lucan, Co. Dublin

Once upon a time, there was a girl named Ella who loved doing gymnastics. She enjoyed flipping, stretching and practising new moves every day. Gymnastics made her feel strong, flexible and confident.

Every Saturday, Ella went to her gymnastics class, where she practiced her favourite moves. Her favourite move was handstands and she practiced it everywhere: in the living room, in the garden, even in the hallway when no one was watching.

Ella was practicing very hard for her upcoming gymnastics competition. One sunny afternoon, while practicing a handstand in her room, she lost her balance. She fell and twisted her ankle. Tears filled her eyes.

 It hurt a lot and she felt worried. The big competition was only a few days away.

But Ella and her family didn’t lose hope. They stayed positive and worked closely with her doctor and physiotherapist to help her recover as quickly as possible.The doctor told her she needed to wear a cast for a while.

Although Ella was disappointed, she believed she could get better in time. Her physiotherapist helped her to do small exercises each day and her mum made sure she ate healthy food to help her heal fast.

Ella tried her best to stay patient and keep smiling, even when it was hard. Slowly, her ankle began to heal and she started to feel stronger each day.

Finally, the day of the competition arrived. Ella took a deep breath and gave it everything she had. She moved gracefully, performed beautifully and didn’t let anything stop her.

When the results were announced, Ella couldn’t believe her ears. She had won first place.

Her family jumped from their seats.

Her coach hugged her. 

Ella felt her heart filled with joy, pride, and strength.

And from that day on, she always remembered never to give up, no matter what challenges come your way.