National Siblings Day (10 April 2025) - The Chen Sisters

Isla (centre) with her siblings, Myra and Jenna

Sisters Supporting Isla: A Heartwarming Family Journey 

In celebration of National Siblings Day, Myra Chen reflects on the special bond she shares with her sisters, Jenna and Isla, and how they support one another as a family. Isla, the youngest of the three, was diagnosed with Global Developmental Delay (GDD) before her first birthday. Myra, along with her sister Jenna, discusses their love for Isla, the challenges they’ve faced together, and the strength of their family bond. 

A Bond Built on Love 

When asked what they love most about each of their sisters, Myra explains her admiration for Jenna's ability to balance both calm and chaos. "She always brings the right energy to our sisterhood," Myra says, “As for Isla, despite her challenges, her lazy Garfield-like cuteness makes Jenna and me adore her even more!” This endearing description highlights how Isla’s charm only deepens the love her sisters have for her. The sisters’ favourite activity together? Cuddling. Whether in moments of joy or sadness, Myra, Jenna, and Isla find comfort in each other’s arms. Myra takes on the role of lullaby singer, helping Isla relax, while Jenna uses her calming presence to ease Isla’s tantrums. "A warm hug always soothes Isla’s anxiety," Myra says, underscoring how the trio’s love for one another provides a sense of peace, no matter the circumstances. 

The sisters have countless silly memories, but one particular moment stands out. During a visit to the playground with their parents, Isla was initially terrified of sliding down the slide, crying hysterically. But when Myra and Jenna sandwiched Isla between the two of them, Isla clung to Myra’s waist while Jenna held her tightly from behind, the trio slid down the slide together, and Isla calmed down. To their surprise, she began to enjoy the ride. "We burst into laughter seeing her hilariously surprised expression," Myra recalls. This moment is a perfect example of how family love and support can turn fear into joy, creating lasting memories. 

Understanding Isla’s Condition: A Journey of Compassion 

When the family first learned of Isla’s diagnosis, Myra and Jenna were quite young. “At first, we didn’t fully understand what ‘special needs’ meant,” Myra admits. However, attending therapy sessions with their parents and meeting other children with different conditions helped them better understand Isla’s needs. Rather than shying away, these experiences allowed them to understand Isla better, and that disabilities don’t define a person and that they needn’t be feared. 

Navigating Challenges with Resilience and Love 

Supporting each other through difficult times is central to the Chen family’s approach. "Every family faces challenges, and ours is no different," Myra says, but she emphasised that Isla remains at the heart of their care. The family find strength in unity, facing life’s obstacles together and ensuring Isla feels loved and supported, no matter what. 

Through their journey, the sisters have learned the importance of compassion and resilience. "Even with challenges like long-distance travel, we adapt and make sure to experience things together," Myra reflects. Their family dynamic may be unique, but it’s filled with love, and they’ve learned to make the most of every moment, regardless of the hurdles they face. 

Hopes for Isla’s Future and Words of Encouragement 

When asked about their hopes for Isla, Myra’s answer is simple yet powerful: "We just want her to be happy and surrounded by love—always." The care and love from her sisters and family create a nurturing environment, ensuring Isla has everything she needs to flourish as she grows. 

Myra shares how their mum has been Isla’s strongest advocate, teaching the importance of inclusion. She recalls a story her mother once shared from The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog by Dr. Bruce D. Perry, which highlights the importance of love and connection in shaping a child’s development. Myra notes, “No matter the challenges, what matters most is that Isla—like all of us—feels understood, supported, and loved. Nothing in life is constant, except that we are Isla’s constant supper companions 💕” 

On National Siblings Day, the Chen sisters remind us that, no matter the challenges, family love and support can help us face anything. Their unwavering bond of compassion, resilience, and love for each other serves as an inspiration, showing us all that with the right support, we can overcome any obstacle and create a future full of hope. 

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