Av's Army of support...

Avalyn is my great niece and the daughter of McKenzie Mickelson and Nick Benda. In September, McKenzie and Nick received the results of Avalyn’s genetic testing and it was news that no parent ever wants to hear. Avalyn has been diagnosed with the mitochondrial disorder MELAS (metabolic encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, stroke like episodes). MELAS primarily affects the nervous system and muscles. It is a rare disorder and usually begins in childhood. Early symptoms are seizures, headaches, vomiting and stroke like episodes.

There is no cure for MELAS and treatment varies by individual and focuses on managing the symptoms.

The meaning of the name Avalyn is “Beautiful Breath of Life” and to her family and friends she is that! The purpose of this GoFundMe is to help support McKenzie and Nick as they navigate this new reality of Av’s illness. Since February of this year she has been hospitalized twice and she has undergone multiple tests and procedures. She will need on-going lifetime treatment and potentially additional testing and diagnostics. Treatment will involve travel and other expenses. All money donated will be used expressly for Av’s support / treatment, medical bills and related travel expenses.

Thank you for supporting Avalyn and her family. Words cannot express how grateful we all are.