Story of Elli Hietala - A girl with a heart

It all started almost a year ago, to be exact it was spring 2013. 

Me and Lilli held an audition for the Rascalz formation team in Myyrmäki, Vantaa. 

We picked 26 dancers out of 60+ dancers and Elli was one of them. 

  

Although She is hearing impaired, she was dancing and performing like any other dancer in that audition. One of the things that really caught my eyes was that she did not once give up. She just kept on smiling and pushing her self although the techniques and the styles were very new to her. 

Her spirit, motivation and kindness were noticed and she got a spot in the Rascalz formation group. During the summer Elli went through a heart surgery which went well and the doctor gave her a green light and we started practicing in august 2013. 

I remember it like it was yesterday.. It was monday evening, most of the dancers were finishing Lilli's house class and they were getting ready for the next class to start. As they were getting ready i told all the dancers that today we are going to work out really hard. I had them running down and up the stairs for 10 rounds and Elli was one of the first to finish. She was smiling and happy of her accomplishment. 

By the time everybody was finished we went back to the dance studio, we had a little break and continued with dancing. All of a sudden Elli felt on her knees and started shacking. That moment was so unreal, it felt like the time stopped for a second. I froze up. All i can hear was Lilli saying

"Elli is having a heart attack". 

The pacemaker saved her life. 

Elli woke up after 15 seconds, confused and feeling tired. By the time her dad came to pick her up she realized what had happened. I gave her a hug with teary eyes and told her that everything is going to be all right. 

Unfortunately Elli had her second heart attack in 2014 couple of months before the Finnish Championship and she had to quit dancing in the Rascalz formation. 

Im happy that Lilli made this video for everybody to see that Dancing in general has really impact on peoples life's. It gives you confident, energy and happiness. You should never take it for granted. 

Thank you Lilli and Maaret for making this amazing video. 

I know people will always be inspired by your story Elli <3 

 This video is the first episode in a series introducing Finnish dancers.

Thank you Elli for sharing your story with us. 

May Your courage and spirit be the motivation and the light of our lives <3 You are special <3