Aviana, Avi to her friends was 1 year old when she came to our attention through a grant application for a special electric wheelchair. Avi has the rate condition of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 (SMA1). Children born with this condition had a life expectancy of around 9 months. Avi had been chosen for a trial treatment and was responding well. The family needed assistance to get Avi out and about. Variety helped to purchase the wheelchair and modify a van to get them moving.
Today Avi is an engaging 5yo reaching unheard of goalposts like walking unassisted in water thanks to her attendance at the Variety Starfish Swim Program. This is a special learn-to-swim program for kids with special needs.
