**Support for Avery's Leukemia Battle**

Dear friends and family,

With sadness in our hearts, we are reaching out to you for help in supporting our sister, Melissa, and her 8-year-old daughter, Avery, who has been recently diagnosed with leukemia. Melissa is a mother of two beautiful girls, Avery and Hailey, and this unexpected journey has turned their world upside down.

On July 11th, 2024, our vibrant and energetic Avery, who loves gymnastics and recently made her gymnastics competition team, was diagnosed with B-cell ALL Leukemia. The signs began a few weeks ago with Avery experiencing persistent belly pain and looking unusually pale. Despite initial reassurances from doctors attributing it to her busy schedule of summer camp and gymnastics, her condition didn't improve. Further tests revealed the heartbreaking diagnosis.

In just a few days, Avery underwent a series of intensive treatments including blood transfusions, additional platelets, a bone marrow biopsy, and a spinal tap. The confirmation of her diagnosis shattered our world. The rigorous treatment plan laid out by the doctors at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia will span over the next two and a half years.

Melissa faces an overwhelming challenge. Balancing the demands of caring for Avery, managing their household, and covering the extensive medical expenses is daunting. With a high-deductible health plan requiring $7,000 out of pocket, along with the costs of regular hospital visits, treatments, and other bills, the financial strain is immense.

We are humbly asking for your support to help Melissa, Avery, and Hailey navigate this difficult journey. Your donations will go towards medical bills, travel expenses to and from the hospital, and ensuring that Avery receives the best care possible. Any funds left over will go to CHOP as a donation to help support others in this journey.

Please keep Avery in your prayers and thoughts. Any contribution, big or small, will make a significant difference and provide much-needed relief to our family during this challenging time.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.

With gratitude,

Stephen and Megan

Follow Avery's Journey in the below link:

Avery's Caring Bridge Blog for Updates