In 2022, Ava was diagnosed with stage 2A Hodgkin’s lymphoma and began treatment in Grand Rapids at Corewell Health’s Helen Devos Children’s Hospital. When it came time for her radiation, and because of Ava’s age and where the tumor was located, Ava underwent Proton therapy in Royal Oak at Corewell Health’s Proton Therapy Center. This treatment targets tumors with precision, and unlike traditional radiation, minimizes harm to surrounding tissue or organs.

In addition to the precise cancer treatment, Ava spent a lot of her time with a Corewell Health Music Therapist. To help Ava cope with the stress and anxiety of fighting cancer, the music therapist introduced Ava to the ukulele and guitar.

Ava still visits the hospital every few months for a check-up, but the rest of the time enjoying school and her dog Ollie. She’s busy navigating new teachers, friends and sports teams. All while strumming the ukulele in her free time.