Meet Aviann, a dedicated mother of three who faced an unexpected diagnosis of Stage 2 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in September 2024 after a year of subtle yet concerning symptoms. Early in 2023, she began experiencing night sweats, which she initially brushed off, thinking it was related to having just given birth to her youngest son, Liam. Later that year, swollen lymph nodes in her armpit prompted her to see her regular doctor in January 2024. After a round of antibiotics that temporarily reduced the swelling, she hoped her health issues were resolved. But in March, Aviann discovered a lump in her right breast and noticed her armpit was swollen again, leading her to consult her OB-GYN. A mammogram yielded no clear answers, yet her symptoms continued to escalate.

By April, with the swelling significantly worse, Aviann revisited her doctor, who recommended further testing. A mammogram and a biopsy from both her breast and armpit were conducted, finally shedding light on what was happening. While the breast biopsy returned benign, the lymph node sample revealed a diagnosis of classical Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (cHL). With this news, Aviann embarked on a six-month chemotherapy journey, determined to battle this illness for herself and her family.

As a mother to three children—Nicholas (14), Eliana (11), and Liam (2)—Aviann’s life was already full and busy. Working remotely as an IOP Coordinator and HR professional for two companies based in California, she balanced her roles while also caring for three dogs and three cats. Yet, she shares that the hardest part of her journey has been adapting to the reality that, during treatment, she can’t always be the active, hands-on mom she has always been. Though this has been difficult to accept, she remains optimistic, telling herself this challenge is temporary and that she will return to being stronger and healthier than before.

We, at the Fightstrong Foundation, were moved by Aviann’s resilience and story. To support her family during this challenging time, we organized a large grocery shopping trip, filling her pantry with essentials, and provided an additional ShopRite gift card to help with future needs. It’s a small gesture, but one that we hope provides comfort and ease, reminding Aviann that she’s not alone in her fight. Her bravery and determination inspire us every day.

Please consider making a donation directly to Aviann and her family by clicking on the link - Donate to Aviann

Aviann, we will continue to pray for you and be by your side. We cannot wait to see you on the other side of this! We love you!