Hope for Ava

The family of five-month-old Ava Neville is hoping to raise $130,000 to send her to New York for treatment for the debilitating Tuberous Sclerosis.

Ava's grandmother, Ms Brenda Logan, of Woy Woy Little Theatre, said that growths in her granddaughter's brain caused her to have up to eight seizures a day that could result in her being mentally retarded.

Surgery is not currently available in Australia that could change the outcome, giving her a chance at a normal life, said Ms Logan.

The surgery is not covered by Australian health funds and costs upwards of $130,000.

Qantas has donated airfares and friends and relatives of parents Joelle and Peter Neville are helping with accommodation.

Ms Logan said they hoped Ava could be in New York by the end of August for treatment.

If surgery is deemed impossible by New York doctors after they have completed their own tests, all monies collected will go towards Ava's ongoing care.

Cheques can be made payable to "Rotary Club of Coffs City - Ava for America" and sent to "Send Ava to America, PO Box 6302, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450."

All donations over $20 are tax deductible and a receipt will be mailed out to donators.

Press release, August 10 Brenda Logan, Woy Woy Little Theatre