Help Ava Fight Von Hippel-Lindau Disease.

At just 19 years old, Ava has been faced with a life-changing diagnosis — Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease, a rare genetic condition that causes tumors and cysts to grow in different parts of the body.

Recently, doctors discovered a tumor growing inside Ava’s spinal cord, known as an intramedullary hemangioblastoma. This type of tumor can press on the nerves that control movement and sensation, leading to pain, weakness, and other neurological symptoms. Treating it often requires complex, high-risk surgery by specialists familiar with this rare disease.

Ava and her parents will be traveling to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, one of the few places in the country with advanced expertise in VHL to come up with a plan.

Despite the fear and uncertainty that comes with this diagnosis, Ava has shown incredible courage and positivity. She dreams of continuing her education and living a full, healthy life beyond this diagnosis. Advances in medicine and a new promising drug have given her and her family a lot of hope for the future. Von Hippel-Lindau is not a curable disease and requires constant treatment and monitoring throughout her whole life.

The financial strain of ongoing medical care, possible surgery, and travel expenses has been overwhelming.

Every contribution — no matter the size — makes a meaningful difference. If you’re unable to give, please consider sharing Ava’s story as we are firm believers in the power of prayer.

Thank you for standing with Ava as she faces this with strength, grace, and determination.