Bright future ahead for courageous Ava-Mae
The star of her gymnastics summer show, a beaming Ava-Mae Moseley, looks a picture of health.
But just months ago, her family feared they would lose her after they were told she had a rare and potentially life-threatening form of asthma.
The condition eventually saw her admitted to the high dependency ward at our Children’s Hospital.
Medics acted quickly to diagnose her with non-atopic eosinophilic asthma and thanks to their dedication and treatment she’s on the road to recovery – and has even become a keen gymnast, which once seemed impossible.
Mum Demi-Lee, from Kitts Green, recalled: “Through some of the most frightening moments of her life, when her breathing was fragile, she needed constant oxygen and when the fear of losing her felt unbearably close, the doctors stood by her with unwavering dedication, skill and compassion.
“Their early detection, quick action and ongoing care have given Ava-Mae more than medical support. They have given her time, hope and the chance to keep shining her bright, beautiful light.”
Eosinophilic asthma is caused by high levels of white blood cells called eosinophils in the airways of the lungs. White blood cells help to fight infection but when produced in higher amounts, they can overreact and cause inflammation.
“As parents, receiving the diagnosis of eosinophilic asthma brought an unexpected sense of relief for our family,” said Demi-Lee, aged 28.
“For so long, we had watched Ava struggle every single day, fighting battles that no child should have to face.” Her symptoms first started at the age of two – when a usually energetic Ava-Mae became breathless and wheezy, often coughing through the night.
Concerned, her mum visited the GP, who initially prescribed the youngster with an inhaler. But, just a few months later her symptoms worsened and Ava-Mae started on a preventative inhaler to stop flare-ups.
Sadly, despite this, Ava-Mae continued to struggle, so was referred to our Children’s Hospital to see a paediatrician. In the following months, she was hospitalised on a number of occasions, often requiring stays in the High Dependency Unit.
With her paediatrician recognising her condition needed more attention, the family met with Dr Prasad Nagakumar, Paediatric Respiratory Consultant. Ava-Mae was placed on oral steroids, but when her condition worsened, she underwent a CT scan and bronchoscopy at the age of four, which revealed extreme scarring of her lungs.
The youngster, now aged eight, was formally diagnosed with asthma but continued to have severe flare-ups, often worse with colds and flus, which meant more time spent in hospital.
Demi-lee explained: “Ava’s time in the hospital was marked by constant uncertainty and unpredictability. No day felt the same and we never knew whether her breathing would stabilise or if she would suddenly struggle again.”
Throughout all of this, Ava-Mae was unable to settle into a normal routine due to being in and out of hospital, leading to her falling behind in school. Demi-Lee added:
“Watching her miss out on lessons, on friendships, on the simple joy of being a child was heartbreaking for all of us.”
Her condition means the family sometimes struggle to plan activities as they never know when Ava-Mae may become unwell, particularly in the colder months. And sadly, some things just aren’t possible for her at the moment, like swimming, which can trigger her condition to become much worse.
But, since her diagnosis, Ava-Mae’s life has changed in remarkable ways. While her monthly injections are challenging due to her needle phobia, she has been and continues to be courageous and resilient.
And for the first time, has been able to pursue gymnastics - something that has previously seemed impossible. Ava-Mae is now thriving, a cherished member of her new school class and has a bright future ahead of her. She loves dancing, singing and brings positivity, kindness and joy to every space she enters.
Dr Nagakumar said: “It is wonderful to see Ava-Mae thriving in gymnastics and at school. Her progress reflects how well she has responded to treatment and this is clearly shown in her ability to take part fully in physical activities that were once difficult for her.”
Sharing their story to support other families going through similar journeys, Demi-Lee added: “From one medical family to another, we know that this journey comes with many highs and lows.
“Our experience taught us that persistence matters. Advocacy matters. And the love of a parent, steady, fierce and unwavering, can make all the difference in a journey as challenging as this one.”