Ava’s Life Beyond Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS)

At first glance, Ava looks like any other 7-year-old—chasing bugs in the backyard, playing softball, and dreaming up big plans for her future. But behind her bright smile is a remarkable story of resilience and expert care.

Born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), Ava has undergone three open-heart surgeries and spent more than 100 days in the hospital during her first year of life. Thanks to the expert team at Children’s Hospital Colorado and a strong support system close to home in Colorado Springs, she’s now thriving.

“She’s in the sweet spot right now,” said her mother, Katie. “She’s doing great.”

Ava’s journey began when Katie went in for a routine checkup during pregnancy. An ultrasound revealed Ava’s heart condition, and the family was quickly connected with specialists at Children’s Colorado. Ava was born at 38 weeks and had her first surgery at just two days old.

Ava’s second surgery, performed at 7 months, was a rare and complex procedure. Despite setbacks, Ava remained resilient. “She was always trying to get the nurses to come play,” Katie said. “Even when she couldn’t leave the room, she made it fun.”

From the start, the care team made sure the family understood every step. “Her surgeon would draw the surgeries like a football play, one time doing the drawing on the window,” Katie said. “He made sure we were informed and confident.”

Today, Ava receives follow-up care close to home in Colorado Springs at Children’s Colorado’s Briargate location. Her cardiologist monitors her heart health while Ava focuses on being a kid—riding bikes, playing softball, and dreaming big.

“She wants to be a scientist, a mechanic, a painter, and a teacher,” Katie said. “She’s got it all planned out.”

For Ava’s family, Children’s Colorado has been more than a medical provider—it’s been a lifeline.

Ava is fundraising for the Heart Institute at Children’s Colorado and hopes to help other kids just like her.