5-Year-Old is a Brave Warrior of Degenerative Syndrome

Ava is only five, and continues down her difficult path of battling her degenerative and progressive medical syndrome that has already affected her eyes. Her first preventative surgery turned into a repair on her right eye for retinal detachment. It was especially tough having her bounce house birthday party canceled. Even with so many precautions in place, weeks later her retina detached again, and she underwent a long and complicated surgery. It’s also been very difficult coping with all of her rigid restrictions, not being able to run, jump, dance or actively play. She’s at constant risk of retinal detachment with even the simplest fall or bump. Ava also needs to patch her left eye each day to help strengthen her right eye, and will soon be undergoing another operation.

In true Ava fashion, she takes on challenges with “I don’t want to, but I have to” before every surgery, eye drop, patching, and head positioning session. “She is the most brave little Stickler syndrome warrior,” said her mom.

She was nominated by her mom who is so proud of how courageously she handles all the challenges that she continues to face. Kids Wish Network applauds her strength in facing so many adversities, and is happy to award her as a Hero.