Ava was born with a Portwine stain birthmark covering the majority of her face, scalp, and neck. She was diagnosed with Sturge-Weber syndrome when she was just two months old. Since she was six weeks old, Ava has undergone more than 50 laser treatment surgeries, most of them under anesthesia. These procedures have been a constant part of her life, necessary to keep her skin smooth and prevent painful tissue overgrowth. Over the years, Ava has had part of her lip and gum tissue removed, and she relies on multiple allergy medicines because the tissue in her nose and upper airway is also overgrown.

Now, there is hope for Ava in the form of a new, innovative treatment available in Italy. This procedure could reverse the tissue overgrowth and deconstruct the overgrown blood vessels, offering results that have been nothing short of amazing for other patients. We have a consultation with the surgeon in New York in October, and if Ava is approved, we will book a surgery date in Milan, Italy. The entire process, including travel, lodging, and medical costs, will be out-of-pocket for our family.

This procedure should only have to happen once in Ava’s life. It would mean she no longer needs further surgeries or laser treatments, and she will be able to breathe better, speak more clearly, and live without planning her life around medical procedures. Many of you have been with us on this ride for the last 20 years. Any small amount to help is appreciated.