Warrior Wednesday Spotlight - #OurHappilyEverAvery
Avery Kiernan was our third ever OAAT South campaign kid in 2021, and she and her family embarked on an OAAT dream trip to Austin, Texas later that year! Before that, Avery was diagnosed with cancer at just 7 weeks old. Avery’s journey started when her mom noticed a swollen lymph node under Avery’s right ear. A few days later, she noticed another one and also noticed that Avery wasn’t eating like normal.
Avery was taken to her pediatrician. Everything looked fine, but her pediatrician decided last-minute to run some blood work due to Avery’s pale color. Those labs showed some concerning numbers, so she sent Avery to Children’s Hospital Plano. Things accelerated after drawing more blood in the ER. Her WBC and ANC were incredibly elevated. She was then diagnosed with Leukemia. Avery and her family endured so much during Avery’s treatment, with countless nights in the hospital while Avery recovered from a bone marrow transplant. Since then, so much has happened in Avery’s recovery!
Here's the latest update her family shared on Avery via a reel on Instagram!
BEFORE: It’s been over 2 1/2 years since our tiny hero embarked on an extraordinary battle, facing leukemia with the strength of giants.
Her courage shone bright even in the darkest times, inspiring us all to find resilience within ourselves.
DURING: Through every chemo treatment, every hospital stay, every hurdle, and every tear, Avery stayed strong, teaching us the true meaning of perseverance.
Surrounded by love, she fearlessly fought on, a beacon of hope for everyone witnessing her incredible journey.
AFTER: Today, against all odds, Avery continues to emerge triumphant, a testament to the power of determination and the healing power of love.
We stand in awe of her incredible unwavering spirit and the amazing community that rallied behind her: All of YOU!
Avery continues to remind us all that no challenge is too great to overcome. In the face of adversity, love and support can conquer all.
(FUN FACT: 2 years since her CAR-T and 8/6 will be TWO YEARS CANCER FREE)
I spoke with Avery's grandma Staci this week, and she let me know their biggest hurdle right now is trying to get her into speech (both for talking and eating) and physical therapy (for her altered gait due to right foot turning inwards). Otherwise, she’s doing amazing! And has become the happiest, cuddliest, and energy-filled toddler with plenty of personality and love.
It’s been such a blast getting to watch Avery grow up. I had the opportunity to fly out to Texas last summer and spend time with Avery, and I look forward to hopefully seeing them again later this year!
Be sure to mark your calendar for August 26th! Avery will be officially 2 years cancer free! If you would like to follow along on Avery's journey, you can do so via instagram at @ourhappilyeveravery.
-Brodi Nicholas