#avastrong

On November 15th our family friends received heartbreaking news. Their youngest child Ava was diagnosed with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in her right leg (femur) Ava is a very active wonderful girl and only 13 years old.

It started with her randomly complaining about her leg aching. They thought it was growing pains or she bumped it playing basketball since the season just started. After about 2-3 weeks we finally took her into urgent care in Lompoc and fortunately the PA on duty, Josh Rodriguez went above and beyond for Ava. He saw something worrisome on the xray and immediately pursued it. Josh called them in to meet with him and gave the shocking news and what his suspicions were. Josh moved mountains to get her into UCLA within a matter of days. All tests confirmed it was bone cancer. They have been on a fast track trying to figure this all out. She has had 2 rounds of chemo. Avas overall treatment plan is 6-9 months of chemo.

After 3 months of chemo the plan is Ava will have surgery to remove ½ her femur bone in her right leg and have it replaced with cadaver bone or metal. This can and will only be possible if the cancerous tumor has shrunk.

 

Ava started her 2nd round the chemo this past Wednesday. This dose is alot stronger than the first. Ava is not reacting well to this treatment. Her methotrexate levels are very high, she is experiencing toxicity. Her kidney function is worsening and is at a grade 3. Medication had to be brought in tonight from UCLA in hopes that it will lower all her levels. This medicine and all of Ava’s care has already hit astronomical figures. Her parents, Daniel and Carrie have had to take countless days off of work and the bills continue to build up. The family hasn’t wanted to ask for help but as their friend and someone that has experienced a sick child and the I have been he experience of knowing how quickly things add up and the stress it causes. I’m hoping the community can bond together to relieve the stress and worry so that they can focus on Ava’s journey.

While keeping strong and positive for their baby the Hernandez’s wanted to attach this message and thank everyone for any help, prayers or sharing of their message to get their message out.

From the Hwrnandez’s

We have a long road ahead of us but Ava is a fighter, we believe prayer works and all things are possible.

#AVASTRONG