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Teen Transplant Survivor Masters Barbecue | Des Moines News
A 14-year-old heart transplant survivor, Ava Weitl, stunned the Iowa State Fair Cookout Contest with her bold barbecue flair—despite needing oxygen and a ventilator while cooking. Her journey began after months in the hospital, sparked by a passion for crafting unique, savory-sweet rubs. Guided by mentor “King Jordan” Williams of BBQ Pit Bros., who built her a custom smoker to accommodate her medical needs, Ava’s resilience has become a beacon of hope. Their bond, forged over smoke and spice, feels like family. As she prepares to start eighth grade, Ava proves that adversity doesn’t define…
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