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.