AKRON, Ohio — Ten-year-old Ava Cooper is finally home after spending nearly 300 days at Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital waiting for and recovering from a lifesaving heart transplant.
While her new heart is giving her a second chance at life, the Cooper family is navigating a different kind of journey now — one that comes with its own set of challenges and triumphs.
A new normal
For Ava and her family, being home means adjusting to a different routine. Her mother Jamie explained that her younger sister Kennedy is thrilled to have Ava back, saying, “She looks over the banister upstairs and makes sure Ava’s still here.” Kennedy also asks “Is Ava still sleeping?” in the mornings.
Ava herself is gaining confidence and strength each day. When complimented on her appearance during our interview, she proudly shared, “I’ve done my makeup myself,” explaining she had applied mascara and moisturizer.
The reality of transplant recovery
While the family is overjoyed to be home, they’re quick to point out that a heart transplant isn’t the end of their medical journey…