Danna Russell Acosta

Danna Russell Acosta, age 10, earned her angel wings peacefully at her home on March 9, 2015, with her parents by her side. Her death came after a long and courageous fight with brain cancer. Danna's life was much too short. Those who knew her, though, know that she touched and inspired many during her short time with us. Her sweet smile could melt the hearts of those around her, and her compassion for others was an inspiration. Danna possessed strength, perseverance, and the wonderful ability to face the daily challenges of her illness with a positive spirit and without complaint. With her courage she led us to remember that each day is a blessing and an opportunity to create memories to be treasured. Danna loved life! She loved to sing and dance, to play, and she loved everything Frozen. She also loved her friends at Whitesburg Elementary School and all of the friends she made at Children Exceeding Expectations School for kids with cancer and immune deficiency diseases. Her extended family and these friends provided a special source of strength and support for Danna and her family. One of Danna's most exciting adventures was a trip she made to Las Vegas, NV, as the guest of her favorite entertainer, Taylor Swift. Danna was able to meet Taylor and be her very special guest at the iHeart Radio Festival. Because Taylor's favorite color is red, and Danna loved Taylor, Danna's friends decided to GO RED FOR DANNA to show their love and support. All the red hair, nails, face paintings, and signs were a beautiful way to let Danna know how many lives she touched and how many people were praying for her. With Danna's passing we are reminded that her life is one to be celebrated. Although we will miss her every day, especially her sweet smile, she will forever remain in our hearts. Danna leaves behind many wonderful caregivers who provided love and support. The family is forever grateful to all the doctors and nurses who cared for Danna at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis; doctors and staff at St. Jude Affiliate Clinic in Johnson City; and her hospice team at Caris Healthcare. Danna is survived by her loving parents, Arturo Russell and Margarita Acosta; her sister, Romina Russell Acosta; and many loving uncles, aunts and cousins. The family will receive friends and family at their home Thursday, March 12, 2015, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. There will be a funeral service Friday, March 13, 2015, at 10:00 am at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Morristown. Donations may be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis,TN, 38105 Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport is serving the Acosta family.