Natasha 'Tasha' Victoria Belston, 9

On March 24, 2016, “we lost our warrior Natasha Victoria Belston as she left her cocoon and became a beautiful butterfly.”

Born Christmas Day, 2006, Tasha suffered from Cockayne Syndrome, a genetic disorder that affected the neurological system. As she was the only child in Montana with CS, it was obvious that it was extremely rare.

With her life expectancy being only 4 to 7 years, she long outlived those expectations, as she lived 9 years 2 months and 28 days. She was a warrior.

She was truly a “Christmas miracle” who became an inspiration to thousands, young and old. Her spirit lives on in the countless family, friends and acquaintances whose lives she changed forever. The fight she endured was long and constant, yet she battled until the end. You would be hard pressed to find a stronger will and passion for life than in this little girl.

She loved balloons and anything that had to do with the outdoors, even though she was allergic to the sun.

Tasha is survived by her parents, Reuben and Jennifer Belston; sister, Kaila Belston; maternal grandparents, Antony and Janice Sibert, and Glen and Vana Larcom; paternal grandparents, William and Diana Belston; Christopher and Kate Larcom and two children; Tyler and Nicole Belston and three children. There is a bank account open for the Belston family at Park Side Federal Union.

There will be a celebration of her life at 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 17, at the fairgrounds Expo building; potluck of salads and desserts would be great as the main course will be provided. Please wear bright colored clothing as that was always a way to make Tasha smile!

Columbia Mortuary is caring for Tasha’s family.