As a family friend, I am reaching out on behalf of a brave 7-year-old girl named Ava and her devoted mother, Teresa.

Recently, Ava has been experiencing acute vision loss.

After extensive testing at OHSU in Portland, Oregon - one of only three research hospitals in the country equipped to handle such complex cases — doctors believe Ava may be facing congenital retinal dystrophy, a rare and incurable eye disease that causes progressive vision loss and

often blindness.

Her vision is deteriorating rapidly. Just three months ago, Ava's right eye measured 20/70 with corrective glasses; today it is 20/300. Her left eye, currently 20/60, is expected to follow the same trend. For reference, 20/200 is legally blind.

There is hope: if doctors can identify the specific gene mutation responsible, Ava may qualify for emerging gene therapies that could preserve - or even restore - her vision. But the financial burden is overwhelming. Current gene therapies cost $850,000 ($425,000 per eye), and Ava will need to travel to Portland every few months for multi-day appointments throughout her life until a cure is found.

Teresa, a single mom, is facing this challenge with courage, but she cannot do it alone. Ava and Teresa are currently on the waiting list for the Ronald McDonald House, which provides temporary lodging for for families in medical crisis.

We humbly ask for your support:

• Donate - every contribution, no matter how small, brings Ava closer to

hope

• Share this campaign so it reaches as many people as possible

• Pray for Ava as she continues this difficult journey

Ava is an incredibly sweet and kind child who lights up every room she enters and fills hearts wherever she goes. With your help, we can give her the chance to keep seeing the world she brightens for all of us.

Thank you, and God bless.