How it started
Ava and Kristen on a hike (2018)
In the Beginning
Before her first birthday you would normally find Kristen, Ava and I outside exploring Alaska. Some of our best memories are those on top of a mountain and next to a glacier. Being a filmmaker and photographer I just couldn’t help myself from capturing all those awesome adventures. I loved making videos that helped to capture those moments for us to remember forever.
Ava with her NJ tube in to deliver food and medicine.
Then things changed…
At 18 months Ava was diagnosed with a fatal genetic disorder called Tay-Sachs. As she began to regress she became blind, paralyzed and had daily seizures. The amount of time and energy required to keep her comfortable and happy grew to a full time job. Quickly we found ourselves secluded inside the house and making frequent trips to the hospital. We discovered how many families are out there fighting their own battles in the world of special needs.
Ava and Dan on an Iditarod adventure (2018)
Everything happens for a reason.
I look back on those videos and realize how special those memories are. Through our trial I’ve discovered how uniquely positioned I am to help other families. As a filmmaker, photographer and marketer I have the skills, resources, knowledge and now a reason to help other families create the same memories we’re so fortunate to have. I can leverage my talents to help produce professional videos and photos and market this program on a high level. Raising awareness and empowering families with special needs.
The first family for Adventure for Ava. The Gorski family at Lake Clark.
So What Now?
Our goal is to take families out on an adventure, tell their story and document their experience using video and photos. The videos will be published online and shared on social media for the world to see. The photos will be printed and given to the family to cherish forever. The best memories are those made outside. However for families with special needs getting there can be difficult. With your assistance we can help make a real difference in the lives of special needs families.