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People Wondered About the Screaming Kid on the Plane Then Mom Praised Grandma Jackie

People Wondered About the Screaming Kid on the Plane Then Mom Praised Grandma Jackie

Two years ago, Rodney and I were flying back from China with Bella, the little girl we had just adopted. As soon as we got on the plane, a kind woman approached us and introduced herself as “Grandma Jackie.” She started talking to us before we even sat down and had us calling her Grandma Jackie right away.

 
Courtesy of Karee Blunt

We had only been with Bella for about two weeks. She was almost five, and her whole life had just changed. That is a lot for anyone, especially a young child. We could not speak Mandarin, and Bella did not know English, but thankfully, Grandma Jackie could speak both and helped us communicate.

 
Courtesy of Karee Blunt

She was there when we needed her—showing Bella how to use a seat belt (something she had never seen before) and gently explaining that she had to stay in her seat. She brought snacks and even helped keep Bella entertained during the long flight.

 
Courtesy of Karee Blunt

But halfway through the trip, something upset Bella, and she had a full-on panic attack. She was completely overwhelmed and cried for 45 minutes without stopping. Her fear and sadness poured out all immediately. It was heartbreaking to see.

 
Courtesy of Karee Blunt

People from all over the plane were trying to help. Other adoptive families sent toys and snacks. Some passengers behind us tried speaking to her in Mandarin, but nothing worked. She just kept crying—and so did I.

 
Courtesy of Karee Blunt

For context, Bella is our sixth child and our fourth adoption. I have been through a lot as a mom, but nothing prepares you for a moment like that. Watching your child be so scared and not being able to comfort her—it breaks your heart.

 
Courtesy of Karee Blunt

Grandma Jackie came back several times to check on us. Bella was crying so hard there was not much anyone could do, but Jackie’s calm voice slowly helped. Eventually, Bella let her hold her. Jackie even offered to walk Bella around the plane, but Bella did not want to leave our side—and honestly, I did not want her to either.

 
Courtesy of Karee Blunt

We stayed in touch after the flight. Jackie and her friends visited us in August, and we had a wonderful evening together. Bella, of course, invited them to her birthday in September. I had not planned a big party, but Jackie surprised us. She and her friend Ping flew up and brought everything to make homemade dumplings, so Bella could have real Chinese food for her birthday.

 
Courtesy of Karee Blunt

They made three kinds of dumplings, including gluten-free ones for Bella, and brought other delicious food too. It was such a special day.

 
Courtesy of Karee Blunt

Watching Jackie and Ping share their culture with our daughters was unforgettable. They are kind, generous, and full of love. I am so thankful Jackie was there that day. She did not just help us; she also became a part of our family.

Thank you, Grandma Jackie. We love you!