At 13 years old, Avery carries a strength far beyond her years.

Before her diagnosis, she remembers constant stomach pain that never seemed to go away. At nine years old, she was diagnosed with a rare endocrine disorder that had already caused significant damage to her pancreas. While her younger sister had been diagnosed at just three years old, Avery’s condition had progressed to the point where she needed a life-changing transplant, a surgery that ultimately left her insulin-dependent.

The journey was anything but easy.

Recovery brought both physical and emotional challenges. Avery spent a full year healing, learning to trust her body again even when pain lingered. “I had to train my brain that it would go away,” she shared. During long hospital stays, she turned to creativity painting her OmniPods, which deliver insulin, and using art and music as an outlet. A natural performer, Avery loves to sing and is now preparing to take the stage as Belle in her school’s upcoming musical as she enters ninth grade.

Throughout it all, her sister has been by her side. Sharing the same diagnosis created a bond that Avery treasures deeply. “I love my sister she’s the best,” she said. “Our similar health struggles were something that bonded us.” Today, that bond continues to be a source of strength for both of them.

After everything she had endured, Avery was ready for something joyful.

Her wish was inspired by her love of koalas soft, fluffy, and endlessly fascinating. After watching Lizzy’s Koala World, she dreamed of meeting one in real life. In 2024, that dream came true when Avery and her family traveled to San Diego for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Meeting a koala was everything she had hoped for and more. She even had the chance to pet one, discovering firsthand what they feel like up close. But her wish didn’t stop there. Avery embraced every moment of her trip parasailing over the ocean, going whale watching, and even spotting a majestic blue whale.

“Make-A-Wish did a really good job taking my wish and making it a huge experience,” she said.

Today, Avery is thriving. She takes medication each morning and night, but she feels strong and capable. “I get to do everything I want,” she shared with a smile. From game nights with friends to stepping into the spotlight on stage, she is fully embracing life as a teenager.

Now, she is giving back.

Avery recently became an ambassador for other children preparing to undergo the same surgery she once faced. Having benefited from guidance before her own procedure, she now offers reassurance and support to others walking a similar path.

Looking back, Avery feels gratitude for every part of her journey.

She keeps a collection of newsletters her mom created during her hospital stay a tangible reminder of how far she has come. And through it all, she carries a simple but powerful message for other wish kids, "Enjoy your wish".

For Avery, that wish was more than a trip. It was a turning point a moment of joy, healing, and hope that helped make her journey just a little bit easier.