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Michelle Kwan Welcomes Second Daughter, Della Rose, Just in Time for the Holidays
Olympic figure skating legend Michelle Kwan has a new reason to celebrate this holiday season: the arrival of her second daughter, Della Rose Kwan. The former ambassador to Belize shared the joyful news on social media Thursday, expressing her profound happiness and gratitude.
“My heart doubled in an instant the moment I held her in my arms, and watching my daughter walk into the hospital to meet her baby sister brought tears to my eyes,” wrote the five-time world champion and two-time Olympic medalist. Kwan also reflected on the journey to motherhood for her first child, Kalista, born in early 2021. “I’ve always dreamt of having children, and when Kalista came into the world, I was already beyond grateful for a miracle that once felt impossible after years of trying.”
The 45-year-old athlete, who served as an ambassador during the Biden administration from 2022 to 2025, also shared intimate glimpses of her pregnancy journey with her followers. Photos included herself and Kalista enjoying ice cream in matching Christmas pajamas, a festive ornament on their Christmas tree featuring a family photo, and a time-lapse video chronicling her pregnancy with baby Della.
Kwan candidly acknowledged the challenges she faced, stating, “Getting here again has been its own rollercoaster.” She extended her heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported “this miracle,” including “my love, who I’m so lucky to share my life with,” though she did not disclose the individual’s identity. Kwan was previously married to attorney and politician Clay Pell from 2013 to 2017.
“After more than a decade of hoping, I still can’t quite believe this moment is real,” she continued. “As an Olympian, I’ve pushed my body to its limits and been amazed by its strength – but carrying another life has left me in even greater awe. There were moments of frustration over how little I could control – a humbling reminder that fertility is something none of us can fully predict.”
In a poignant message, Kwan also offered solidarity and well wishes to those navigating infertility or longing for children. “I know what you’re going through,” she wrote, “and I’m hoping you feel loved and supported in every way as you navigate this journey.”
This open and emotional approach is characteristic of Kwan, who spoke to The Times in 2020 about her desire to create a positive impact through her life experiences. “You hope that you made an impression and an imprint, a positive impact on people,” she said, reflecting on her skating career. “I kind of expressed the journey that I was on, whether it was a good journey or an emotional journey or a sad one, I was never afraid to emote.”
With the arrival of Della Rose, Michelle Kwan embarks on another significant and undoubtedly heartwarming journey.