Ariana’s Story

Site created on October 3, 2022

Ariana is 17 and had her world turned upside down in 2022 when she was diagnosed with Moyamoya Disease.  This is a progressive neurological disease that causes the main arteries in the brain to close and reduce blood flow to the brain. Reduced blood flow can cause strokes, seizures, migraines, abnormal movements, and cognitive issues. Moyamoya is not curable and affects approximately 1 in a million pediatric patients within the United States. The only known effective treatment is Bilateral Brain surgery, which Ariana underwent at Boston Children's Hospital in April of 2023. She is now 9 months post-op and is figuring out her new normal. Please keep her and her family in your prayers! 

Newest Update

We're Home!!!!

Journal entry by Melissa Olexa —

We were able to come home yesterday as planned! A good night's rest in her own bed and some food have definitely helped pep her up more. She is still taking things slowly and gets tired easily. Some napping is helping with that! 

Overall, she is doing soooo amazing and it is such a beautiful thing and it makes this mama heart smile! 

Tomorrow we get to wash her hair for the first time, which is another big step! 

We will keep in touch and let you know how recovery is going! Thank you again for all the good thoughts and prayers! 

Blessings to all of you! 
Read More of the journal titled "We're Home!!!!"
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