Moyamoya Fundraiser - Ariana's Story

Hi friends,

Mandy here, and I'm reaching out on behalf of one of the strongest families I know—the Olexas—and especially their amazing daughter, Ariana.

If you don't already know Ariana was diagnosed with Moyamoya back in 2022, this is a rare and progressive brain condition that affects blood flow and can cause strokes and other serious complications. Since 2023, this incredible young woman has already undergone five brain surgeries, each one an attempt to protect her brain and preserve her future.

Last month, the Olexas traveled from Missouri to Stanford University in California to meet with Dr. Gary Steinberg, a world-renowned neurosurgeon who specializes in Moyamoya. After a full round of tests—including a perfusion MRI and angiogram—they learned that Ariana’s they learned that the right side and frontal lobe was not receiving enough blood flow, and another surgery is needed.

This will be her sixth brain surgery, and while Ariana continues to fight bravely, this journey has been emotionally, physically, and financially overwhelming for the family.

They have decided to transition her care from Boston Children’s Hospital to Stanford, not because the care at Boston was lacking, but because Dr. Steinberg’s experience with patients like Ariana with complex Moyamoya patients his tailored approach offers the best chance for Ariana to regain stability and move forward.

To help manage Ariana’s ongoing needs, her parents were also recently granted legal guardianship, which will allow them to make important medical decisions and ease some of the weight Ariana’s carried on her shoulders.

Now, I’m asking— again can we help get Ariana to Stanford for this pivotal surgery?

The expenses for the upcoming trip are significant—airfare, hotel stays, meals, transportation, and uncovered medical costs all add up quickly. The Olexas need us now more than ever!

If you can donate, please do.

If you can’t, share a prayer as that means just as much to this family!

Ariana is bright, compassionate, and has her whole life still ahead of her. Let’s come together as a community to support this beautiful family and help give Ariana the very best chance at healing.

With love and gratitude,

Mandy Bampton