When Avery was just six years old, her parents scheduled what they assumed would be a routine lipid screening. They knew high LDL cholesterol ran in the family, but nothing prepared them for the results that followed. Avery’s cholesterol levels returned at over 800 mg/dL, and a repeat test came back even higher. Further evaluation at a major medical center confirmed the diagnosis: Homozygous Familial
Hypercholesterolemia (HoFH) — one of the most severe, rare forms of familial hypercholesterolemia.
Understanding the Diagnosis
For a young child, the terminology and seriousness of HoFH didn’t make sense. “All the doctor talk doesn’t really make sense to a little kid,” Avery recalls. Her parents, Michelle and Jason, absorbed the weight of the diagnosis first. Avery showed no outward symptoms, which made the news even more shocking. Both parents had a history of high cholesterol themselves—diagnosed in childhood and adolescence—yet HoFH was vastly more aggressive. “It changed the way we’ve lived our lives for the past decade,” Jason shares. “For Michelle and I, medication works. But for Avery, who is receptor-null, medication wasn’t
enough.”
Growing Up with HoFH
Avery’s childhood was shaped by doctor visits, hospital days, and missed school events. “I haven’t really known anything different,” she says. Over time, she learned to adapt — and to accept. Her parents speak with pride about her resilience. “We’ve become stronger as a family,” Michelle says. “I’m proud of how we’ve advocated for Avery.”
Starting Liposorber Treatment
Just before her seventh birthday, Avery began LDL apheresis using the Liposorber® System, a therapy designed to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood when medications aren’t enough. This treatment quickly became central to her care — and her future. “Liposorber allowed Avery to live a relatively normal life,” Jason says. “Without it, I don’t know that Avery would be here.”
Now 17, Avery has been undergoing Liposorber therapy for nearly 12 years. She describes it as something that brought her “a feeling of safety and calm.”
Her LDL cholesterol levels today typically range between 150–190 mg/dL before apheresis and can drop to 50 mg/dL or undetectable afterward.
A Life Full of Creativity and Determination
Despite the challenges, Avery has kept dancing — something she considers one of her greatest accomplishments. Liposorber treatment has given her the physical strength and energy to continue performing.
Looking forward, Avery plans to study nursing at university, inspired by the many nurses who have supported her throughout her journey.
“I want to give back what I was given,” she says. “I want to help younger patients have a better experience.”
Advice for Other Kids and Families
To other young patients preparing to begin Liposorber treatment, Avery offers reassurance: “It might seem scary, but it’s going to help in the long run… It makes you feel healthier, happier, and gives you a more normal life.” Her father also encourages healthcare providers to think beyond oral medications: “For some patients, statins and PCSK9 inhibitors simply aren’t enough. A fulfilling life
may not be possible without options like Liposorber.”
Thankful for the Support
After more than a decade managing HoFH, Michelle’s message is one of gratitude: “We’re so thankful for the Liposorber treatment and the ability to do LDL apheresis.” Avery’s story stands as a powerful testament to resilience, expert care, and the life-
changing impact of technologies like Liposorber.
For complete Indications for Use and important safety information, please visit:
liposorber.com/liposorber-safety-info