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From Challenge to Change
My name is Olivia Montesano, and I was personally affected by an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) that nearly took my life. As a child, I experienced symptoms at school, but my school nurse had no knowledge of AVMs or how to recognize the warning signs. This lack of awareness delayed the help I desperately needed. That experience inspired me to create AVM Aware—a foundation dedicated to empowering school nurses with the knowledge to detect AVMs early. Through education and awareness, I hope to ensure that no child faces the same danger I did and that school nurses are equipped to make life-saving decisions. Together, we can make a difference.
What is an AVM?
An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare condition affecting less than 1% of the population. It occurs when blood vessels form an abnormal tangle, most commonly in the brain or spinal cord. Each year, approximately 18 in 100,000 people experience an AVM-related brain hemorrhage, with devastating consequences, including a 15% risk of death and a 20% chance of permanent disability.
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