September – Ava’s Month – Ava’s Way
September — Ava’s Month
September will always be Ava’s month, a time to remember, to celebrate, and to keep her light shining in the ways she continues to inspire us all. This year marked Ava’s 20th birthday on September 13th and her 8th Angelversary on September 11th, two milestones that remind us of the beautiful impact she continues to have on our lives and in our community.
Throughout September, we carried on traditions and added a few new ones, all “Ava’s Way.”
This year, I rode in the Great Cycle Challenge for Childhood Cancer Research in Ava’s honor. It was my 8th year riding, and together through the years we’ve logged over 1,000 miles and raised nearly $6,000 to help fund life-saving research. Every mile matters, and every dollar fuels hope for families like ours.
We also supported some of the causes closest to our hearts, donating to the Ronald McDonald House wish list, collecting pop tabs, and giving to the School Food Pantry. Ava’s legacy continues to ripple through every act of kindness.
Another exciting milestone this September, Ava’s Garden update is complete! New equipment, benches, and sidewalks have been added, making it an even more special place for families to gather, play, and feel her spirit.
As a family, we rode 20 miles, one for every birthday, a small but meaningful way to honor her 20 beautiful years. We spent time in the garden, surrounded by “signs” that she was near, and ended the day with her favorite meal, mac ‘n cheese pizza with bacon from Fong’s.
And of course, Ava’s Annual Blood Drive continues to make a life-changing difference. Here’s what your generosity has accomplished over the years:
| Year | Units Collected | First-Time Donors |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 166 | 55 |
| 2018 | 100 | 20 |
| 2019 | 85 | 12 |
| 2020 | 54 | 8 |
| 2021 | 47 | 9 |
| 2022 | 46 | 8 |
| 2023 | 45 | 7 |
| 2024 | 44 | 6 |
| 2025 | 51 | 4 |
| Total | 638 Units | 129 First-Time Donors |
That’s an incredible 1,914 lives impacted through the gift of blood, a true testament to the power of community and Ava’s lasting influence.
Every year, we’re reminded that this is how we do it, Ava’s Way.
Thank you to everyone who supports Living Ava’s Way Foundation in all the ways, big and small. Every ounce of your kindness fills our cups, and Ava’s legacy continues to run deeper because of you.
