Press Feature: Santa Barbara Independent
Glimmers of Determination from 12-Year-Old Fighting Bone Cancer in Santa Barbara
Like many kids, Ava Decker is equipped with a community of stuffed animals; her mom’s, dad’s, and little brother’s love; her dog’s kisses and cuddles; and all of her favorite things and snacks as she lies in bed. At just 12 years old, Ava has the wisdom, compassion, and life experience of an adult. A cancer diagnosis, chemo treatment, and the day-to-day struggles of dealing with her illness have not hindered her bright and helpful spirit — against all odds.
In most ways, Ava is a normal tween girl: She enjoys playing video games, hanging out with her friends, going to school, spending time with her family, and eating (her favorite food is olives). Her diagnosis — osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer that begins in the cells that form bones — was made in December 2022, and it has simultaneously flipped her world upside down and given her more appreciation, gratitude, and opportunities.
Osteosarcoma is typically found in children and teens, more specifically during growth spurts. After her diagnosis, Ava promptly started chemotherapy and had surgery.
“With osteosarcoma, every single person gets a surgery — you can’t really be in remission without it. I got a surgery in my left knee, my femur, and had a full knee replacement where they took out the tumor,” Ava explained.
But her original chemotherapy treatment plan wasn’t working, the cancer metastasized, and she is now on an alternative treatment.
When asked what day her surgery was, Ava knew. “It was April 18, 2023. I remember the exact day, because I was dreading it.”
Her surgery took about three hours with a five-month recovery time — she was terrified to walk right after and still has a substantial scar on her knee.
The whole thing has been a roller coaster. After her surgery, Ava was declared cancer-free, began finishing her chemo, and would get monthly scans of her lungs to ensure there were no tumors. That’s when they found that the cancer had spread all over: to her right femur, pelvis, sternum, spine, hips, and left bicep.
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