Ava’s journey was also featured at the Beaded Journey Gala in 2019, thank you to our Sponsor, Global Edmonton.
Ava’s Story
My Name is Ava Dawn Hadfield and I am 9 years old. I was diagnosed with a Brain tumour called a Ganglioglioma when I was 3. Over the past 6 years my family and I have been supported by the Kids with Cancer Society (KWCS) in many ways. My treatments included G-tube surgery, IVAD surgery, 3 major brain surgeries, 56 weeks of intravenous chemotherapy, 31 rounds of radiation and another 104 weeks of targeted chemotherapy. Throughout this, my family and I could not have imagined this journey without the support of KWCS. I love to attend KWCS family events throughout the year with my brother and parents. The events are always super fun and they give us opportunities to meet other families and kids affected by childhood cancer. My family also attends the support groups offered at the KWCS house. The “Girls with Brain Tumours Club” is my favourite. My beaded journey measures 23 feet (7 meters) of tiny beads. I visit it often and it reminds me how strong I have been throughout my journey. We are monitoring the growth of my tumour and I will have more treatment to come. Until then, I will continue to enjoy doing my makeup, acting, singing and art.