Ava’s Bravery: Living with One Eye and a Bold Spirit

Ava was just 14 months old when her life, and that of her family, was suddenly transformed by a diagnosis that no parent ever wants to hear. She was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare form of childhood eye cancer. By the time doctors detected the disease, Ava’s tumour measured an alarming 22mm and had filled her entire eye. The cancer was too advanced to treat with conventional methods, and to save her life, Ava’s eye had to be removed. For her family, this was a heartbreaking decision. They were confronted with the reality that the treatment necessary to keep their daughter alive would also forever change her appearance and her vision.

The surgery itself was only the beginning of Ava’s journey. Recovering from the removal of her eye was both physically and emotionally challenging. For such a young child, the hospital experience could be frightening, and the procedures, medications, and follow-up appointments were overwhelming. Yet Ava faced each day with a resilience and strength that belied her age. Her family supported her through every step, celebrating small victories and providing comfort through moments of fear and pain.

Since her initial surgery, Ava’s journey has been far from smooth. She has faced multiple complications, the most recent of which involved surgery to repair a hole in her eye socket after her implant became exposed. The NHS team was able to use a donor’s white of the eye as a graft, a delicate procedure intended to restore the integrity of her eye socket. Unfortunately, the graft has not healed as expected, and additional surgery is planned to determine the best course of action. These medical challenges have been physically demanding, requiring hospital visits, follow-up care, and the uncertainty of waiting to see if each intervention will be successful.

Beyond the physical impact, Ava has also had to contend with the psychological effects of her treatment. She is dealing with post-traumatic stress, a condition that has significantly affected her sleep and overall well-being. Experiencing serious illness, invasive procedures, and repeated hospital stays at such a young age can leave a lasting imprint, and Ava’s struggles are a reminder of the emotional toll childhood cancer can take. Thankfully, she has been supported by an amazing play therapist, who has been helping her process her experiences. Through therapy, Ava is learning to navigate her emotions, confront her fears, and develop coping strategies that will help her manage the challenges she has faced.

Living life with one eye comes with its own set of challenges. Ava has to adapt to differences in depth perception and balance, learning to navigate her environment with caution and awareness. Yet, despite these obstacles, she refuses to let them hold her back. She explores her surroundings with curiosity and confidence, proving that resilience is not just about enduring treatment but about embracing life in the face of adversity.

Ava’s daily life is a testament to her unbreakable spirit. She engages in play, social interaction, and learning experiences with the enthusiasm of any child her age. Her parents have watched with pride as she navigates her world independently, developing skills and confidence that show her determination to thrive despite the challenges she has endured. Her bold personality shines through in everything she does, and those around her are inspired by her strength and joy.

Her mum shares, “Ava lights up every room she enters with her bold personality and unbreakable spirit.” These words perfectly capture the essence of Ava: a child who, despite the trials of serious illness, radiates life, energy, and courage. For her family, every smile and every laugh is a reminder of how far she has come, and a testament to the support, love, and care that have surrounded her throughout her journey.

Ava’s story also highlights the importance of showing the reality of childhood cancer. The images shared alongside her story provide a window into the challenges faced by young patients, illustrating the physical realities of surgery, treatment, and recovery. While these images may be difficult to view, they serve as a vital reminder of the bravery required of children like Ava and the dedication of the medical teams who care for them.

Through Ava’s experiences, we see not only the resilience of a child facing life-threatening illness but also the critical role of family support, medical expertise, and therapeutic interventions in helping children cope and recover. Her journey underscores that survival is only part of the story; emotional healing, adaptation to physical changes, and the cultivation of confidence and joy are equally important milestones.

Ava’s journey is now shared as part of the Go Gold campaign for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, which aims to raise awareness about childhood cancers and honor the courage of young patients. Her story reminds us of the extraordinary strength, determination, and optimism displayed by children facing unimaginable challenges. It also emphasizes the importance of providing comprehensive care—physical, emotional, and psychological—to ensure that young patients have the best chance at a healthy, fulfilling life.

Despite all that she has endured, Ava continues to grow, explore, and thrive. Her family celebrates every milestone, from learning new skills to engaging confidently with friends and playmates. Each day is a victory, a testament to her resilience and the unwavering support of those around her. Ava’s journey reminds us that childhood cancer is not only a battle against disease but also a challenge that shapes character, courage, and perspective—both for the child and for the family.

Ava’s story is one of hope, determination, and unbreakable spirit. She demonstrates that even in the face of serious illness, children can adapt, overcome, and live life fully. Her journey inspires families, healthcare professionals, and communities alike, serving as a powerful example of bravery in the most challenging circumstances. Through her courage, Ava teaches us that the human spirit, even in its youngest form, is capable of incredible strength. 💛