Ava Alexander, eight, from Stirling, was diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome while in the womb. The condition meant the left side of her heart was under-developed. Doctors initially classified her case as one of the worst they had ever seen and offered termination three times.
Defying Medical Expectations
Laura Alexander, 40, and her husband David, 42, were told the baby might not survive birth. Laura said: "I was fully prepared to lose my little girl or to give birth to a baby I'd barely spend minutes with. We only bought the essentials. We didn't even buy a pram or a cot." Despite the grim prognosis, Laura chose not to terminate. "I wanted to keep going and thought 'what's for me, won't go by me'," she added.
At birth in July 2017, Ava weighed 8lb 13oz, far exceeding the expected 3lb. Laura recalled: "Ava was a feisty, big girl from the moment she was born. She defied all of the doctors' expectations. Even the specialists in Birmingham were shocked at how big she was." Contrary to predictions, Ava had no learning difficulties or neurological problems.
Three Major Surgeries
Ava underwent her first surgery at just three days old after being transferred to specialists in Birmingham. Over the first four years of her life, she had three major operations. She experiences breathlessness and fatigue and will require a heart transplant in the future. Despite these challenges, she has hit all her developmental milestones.
The Ava Alexander Foundation
In 2024, the family launched The Ava Alexander Foundation in her name. The charity has raised £15,000 to provide support, respite, and special experiences for sick children and their families, including iPads, games consoles, and holidays. The next goal is to raise funds for a caravan to gift or rent to families with children battling health issues. Ava also has a football team named after her, Ava AFC, which participates in charity matches.
Laura said: "Everybody sees Ava's spirit. She brings joy to everyone and lights up the room. She deserves the world."
