### Update: 1.16.25
Ava's Journey: An Appeal for Support and Prayers
As I prepare to fly back home after this week in Seattle, I find myself lying here next to Ava, watching some of her favorite Disney movies, feeling an immense amount of gratitude. I am grateful for the love and support of my friends who lift me up, for the flexibility from my workplace, and for my family who have graciously stepped in at home so I can be here for Ava and my sister.
This week, I flew here to help Ava and my sister pack up to head to New York. As many of you know, Ava's primary treatment for Neuroblastoma has been at Seattle Children's Hospital. While their care has been commendable, the standardized approach didn't fully cater to Ava's unique needs. She completed her 5th round of chemotherapy, which, while essential, took a toll on her body.
Seeking a more tailored approach, my sister sought a second opinion at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) in Manhattan, NY, where a highly renowned specialist has agreed to take on Ava's case. Ava is now embarking on her Angel Flight to NY for a major surgery to remove her tumor, which is connected to her kidney, psoas muscle, and spinal cord.
During this challenging time, they will be staying at the Ronald McDonald House, hotels, and of course, the hospital.
We are deeply grateful for your continued prayers and support through her GoFundMe. Your kindness is a beacon of hope for us.
We believe in miracles and the power of prayer, through any higher power. Thank you for standing with us on Ava's journey.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Maria & Kasey
###UPDATE: 11.14.24
Ava; Our Little Warrior
What a day. Today, we collected Ava’s precious stem cells—an incredible milestone in her treatment journey. These tiny cells hold so much hope for her future, to be used later in her plan as part of her healing. It’s a surreal moment for us as parents, knowing how far she’s come and the battles she’s still bravely facing.
Our days are filled with daily shots, blood labs, and hospital visits, yet Ava’s strength never wavers. Even on the toughest days, her spirit shines through, reminding us why we fight so hard alongside her. The machines, the procedures, the endless waiting—it’s all worth it for these moments of progress.
We are beyond grateful for the incredible medical team who has supported us and for the love from all of you—our family, friends, and community. Your messages, prayers, and encouragement keep us going. This journey isn’t easy, but knowing we’re not alone makes all the difference.
Thank you for standing with us, for cheering Ava on, and for holding us up when we need it most. We still have a long road ahead, but together, we’ll get through it.
#AvaStrong #LittleWarrior #HealingInProgress
###UPDATE: 11.2.24
Ava, our little warrior
Today marks day three of Ava's second round of Chemotherapy, and she's here after a few bumps in the road over the last three weeks. From unexpected ER visits for unexplained fevers, dislocated arm, unplanned blood transfusions to the new life routine of daily port flushes, rotational therapies and finding a new normal.
Through it all, Ava has breakthrough moments where she maintains her amazing will to find ways to laugh and be the silly, playful toddler she is.
What's next: Following her fifth day of Chemotherapy Ava will begin Filgrastim injections followed by apheresis therapy. Then 10 days later she will begin her next cycle of Chemotherapy, all before her 2nd birthday.
While her physical appearance continues to change, her spirit remains. Our family continues to hold strong and believe that our miracle and prayers will be answered.
The outpour of support, kind words, spiritual well wishes and prayers have truly been a blessing to us.
Thank you for following her journey and for the love you continue to send.
###UPDATE: 10.23.24
Ava, Our Little Warrior
Day 16 of Ava's first cycle of Chemotherapy, it's hard for our family to put into words what these days feel like, with the ups, the downs and the constant uncertainty. Yet through it all Ava continues to show a strength, we never imagined possible, especially for an 18 month old. Her bravery, her spirit, and her ability to find joy in the small things are what keeps us going.
This week she had an unexpected visit and admittance into the Children's Hospital for a fever, that led to isolation and a hemoglobin transfusion.
This little fighter is just begining her journey, and today we celebrate her resilience, her courage and every little victory along the way.
We are truly grateful for every prayer, every bit of support and for the incredible team helping Ava fight this battle.
Thank you for being with us, we are holding onto hope. One day at a time.
###UPDATE: 10.13.24
Ava's Brave Journey
Ava has just finished her 5th round of chemotherapy today. She’s an extraordinary fighter, and her strong-willed spirit remains intact.
This journey has been far from easy; some days are much harder than others. Yet, Ava's incredible resilience and her fearless determination continue to inspire us all.
We are deeply grateful for your continued support and love for our brave little warrior.
### Help Ava Fight Cancer
Our hearts are heavy as we reach out for help. Our 18-month-old niece, Ava, the light of our family's life and the miracle that brought us all closer together, has been diagnosed with a high-risk form of cancer: neuroblastoma affecting her spinal and nervous system. This news has devastated us, but Ava's spirit remains unbroken, and so does our resolve to fight alongside her.
This radiant soul, whose laughter fills our home with joy and whose presence is our greatest gift, now faces a battle for her life. She needs specialized treatment to give her a fighting chance, and we are determined to do everything possible to make this happen.
We are asking for your support in raising funds for her medical expenses, treatments, and the critical care she needs. No donation is too small—every bit helps us get closer to giving our precious girl the chance to grow up healthy and strong.
Please consider donating and sharing this campaign with your friends and family. Together, we can bring hope and healing to our little warrior.
#AvaStrong
With heartfelt thanks,
(Tina's little Sisters )
Maria & Kasey
