Hello friends and community! I am writing this on behalf of my dear friend Avrion. If you know Avrion, you know she loves to create art, spend time in nature, collaborate with other makers, and dedicate time and energy to community projects and events. You’ve felt the love, intentionality, and whimsy she brings to all her friendships and surroundings. You may also know that Avrion has been living with chronic illness and pain. Though Avrion continues to lead a fulfilling life and contribute to the Asheville art and DIY community, many of their achievements have come after pushing through symptoms, crashes, flare-ups and intense exhaustion.

A few weeks ago Avrion got their first ultrasound which led them to be diagnosed with PCOS, ovarian cysts, and late-stage endometriosis. Endometriosis is a chronic condition which can cause severe pain, infertility, scar tissue, and damage to organs. It is a systemic, inflammatory disease that can affect the whole body. Since the endometriosis appeared on the ultrasound, that means the disease is likely already in stage 3/4, or is “deep-infiltrating.” The only way to fully understand how extensive the disease is and how it can be safely treated is through laparascopic surgery.

Avrion’s laparascopic surgery is scheduled for March 16th. She needs financial support to cover the cost of surgery and wages lost during the recovery period. While recovery looks different for everyone, with Avrion’s advanced diagnosis and overlapping conditions, they have estimated 3-6 months until full recovery, though they plan to return to work if possible after 3-4 weeks. The out-of-pocket surgery cost is $2,500, and estimated income loss is $1,700, so our fundraising goal is set at $4,000.

We hope that this surgery will reduce Avrion’s chronic pain and symptoms and improve their quality of life by allowing them to engage with their passions with less exhaustion and pain. Avrion strives to create a more sustainable life and show up more fully for her tattoo practice, friends, family, and greater community. To do so, they need some help. If you have any money to spare in these crazy times, please consider donating to support our amazing friend Avrion. Even if you don’t, please share on your socials and within your networks. Anything helps! Thank you so much for reading and being a part of Avrion’s story! <3