Avery Heino was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor - Atypical Teratoid Rhapdoid Tumor (AT/RT) - on June 28, 2014. She underwent 20 rounds of intense, high dose chemotherapy, 13 surgeries - 8 of which were brain surgeries and included a tracheostomy and G-Tube, a stem cell transplant, countless platelet and red blood cell transfusions, multiple MRI and many other procedures. She was hospitalized for almost the entire 10 months she received treatment. Avery passed away from complications related to her last chemotherapy treatment and stem cell transplant on April 7, 2015. She was surrounded by her parents, family and loved ones. Avery’s life, though seemingly short, impacted many people. Her gentle smile could melt the hearts of those around her, and, though she could not speak, her feelings were always made known through her candid demeanor and feisty spirit. Even on her sickest days, she courageously fought back against her harsh treatments and sometimes a little with her caregivers. Although Avery’s illness was unrelenting, she possessed strength, perseverance, and an ability to overcome incredible odds and physical challenges – always with a smile on her face. Her courage inspired others to begin new spiritual journeys, grow together, and realize what matters most in life. She enjoyed playing with her babies and her older sister Ella, who she lovingly adored. Dana, Mike and Ella will continue on in Avery's name to help advocate, support and fight against pediatric cancers. http://brittanigattisphotography.com/the-day-in-the-life-of-pediatric-cancer/