ALIA'S STORY

Alia's Story

Talent, beauty and brains. Alia is a triple-threat in a teenage package. When we met almost two years ago, I could tell she was a young woman with goals and dreams well beyond her current fight with AVM. She was determined not to allow her health challenges to speak for who she was. In addition to having a dazzling singing voice, she writes songs that speak to the very heart of our experiences as survivors and the sublimity of tomorrow's promises. I've been blessed to hear some of her work and hope to feature it on More Than Skin Deep. For now, please enjoy learning more about Alia's journey.

Hometown: Muskego, Wisconsin

When I was younger, I wanted to be: A doctor AND a musician.

In 10 years, I will have: A big family.

My life long goal is to: Make some sort of impact on the world and the people around me.

If I could change one thing about the world, I would: This made me think a lot... I would want to change the way people think. Positive thoughts only.

My favorite quote/scripture/affirmation statement is: 

"Every hardship comes with ease."

 
1) Describe the type of AVM you have? What was the first sign?

My AVM is located in my right foot. The first sign was blood marks and swelling on my foot, eventually leading to a lot of pain. 

2) How did you eventually come to receive treatment?

After seeing numerous specialists, I was taken to Northwestern for a couple surgeries that were unsuccessful. They attempted homeopathic medication and acupuncture. Then Doctor Patricia Burrows was brought to our attention in late 2014/2015.

3) Who are/were your main doctors, where are/were you treated and how has your care been? 

Doctor Burrows is my main doctor, and she has been treating me since March of 2015 until now. The surgeries her and her team have been providing me with a great deal of relief. 

4) How do you feel your health will progress in the future? 

I believe if I keep on top of these surgeries with Doctor Burrows that eventually my AVM will stay away for a long period of time. Eventually, it could even disappear. I do believe in miracles! 

5) How has having an AVM changed your life? 

It definitely forced me to grow up a lot faster and gave me a new perspective. It taught me to be grateful for the health I do have. My AVM is completely hidden, and it reminds me that just because someone looks fine on the outside, it doesn't mean they're not dealing with something just as big as you are. It keeps me grounded, honestly. 

6) What has been your biggest challenge in the battle with AVM? 

Chronic foot pain is distracting. It was hard for me in high school especially, and I had to graduate early and take time off of college for multiple surgeries in less than a year. It got tough at times being in bed for such long periods of time for recovery and feeling like you don't have much to do at that time.

7) What do you think a documentary about those surviving AVM can achieve? 

It will definitely spread awareness. Anyone I've talked to about AVM besides doctors, they have absolutely no clue about it, which makes it impossible for them to really even try to understand anyone with AVM's point of view. A documentary would help people get a little better of an understanding what AVM even is and how rare it is. 

8) What are your hopes for the future of AVM research? 

I hope soon research will show new ways for cures for multiple types of AVMs, and not drug therapy, more natural ways.

9) What has been the biggest lesson you've learned throughout your journey thus far? 

That God gives his strongest soldiers the toughest battles! 

10) What is your proudest accomplishment? 

I'd have to say staying active throughout all of this. It's funny because I was never active until right before I was diagnosed. I was so worried that it was going to stop me from working out, but it did the exact opposite. I try to get a workout in at least 4/5 days a week now, and I've never felt better physically than I do right now!