Aolani and Max, siblings with autism, embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery through music. With their family’s loving support, they have been able to overcome challenges and unlock their talents.
Siblings in harmony
Aolani, age 17, plays the violin with grace, and her brother, Max, age 12, has mastered three instruments.
From the outside, they’re just two kids doing what they love, but their journey has been far from typical.
Both were diagnosed with autism and have faced unique challenges.
Thanks to the dedicated care of physicians and staff at CHOC’s Thompson Autism and Neurodevelopmental Center, along with their mother Rocio and their sister Astrid’s unwavering advocacy, Aolani and Max have flourished.
Aolani’s journey
Born through an emergency C-section and diagnosed with hip dysplasia, Aolani couldn’t walk until she was 4, and experienced delays in speech and potty training.
Before seeking care for Aolani at CHOC, Rocio was told her daughter might never walk, talk, or achieve much in life, and that she would likely need surgery for her hip dysplasia.
Devastated but determined, Rocio sought care at CHOC when Aolani was 5, and found hope. Dr. Afshin Arminian, an orthopedic surgeon with the CHOC Orthopaedic Institute, reassured her that surgery wasn’t necessary, and with therapy, Aolani would walk.
“CHOC opened up a different window of opportunity for my daughter. Because she bloomed,” Rocio said, reflecting on the life-changing treatments.
Today, Aolani not only walks but dances and plays the violin—one of the most challenging instruments to master. Her love for music began at age 9, and by 11, she joined an inclusive dance group, where she found confidence and a voice.
Aolani also joined a local mariachi academy, where she continues to grow, expressing herself through music while celebrating her Mexican heritage.
Max’s journey
For Aolani’s brother, Max, the journey was different but no less challenging. Diagnosed with autism at 3, Max faced social struggles and a series of medical issues, including heart arrhythmias and severe seizures.
After dramatic weight loss, he was diagnosed with Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMA), requiring a feeding tube.
During a hospital stay for surgery, he requested a guitar from a child life specialist, sparking a passion for music.
He joined the same mariachi academy as his sister, Aolani, and flourished, mastering the guitar, singing, and eventually picking up other instruments.
Max, who once struggled with social interaction and health challenges, is now a member of his school orchestra. “It seemed impossible at first,” he recalls, but after a year of dedicated practice, he earned a spot in the advanced orchestra.
He was also recently accepted into his school’s Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program and enjoys drawing. He watches online tutorials to improve his drawing skills.
Aolani, too, has grown in confidence, often reminding herself, “I’m strong and resilient,” when facing performance nerves. “I’ve come so far, and I’m proud of myself,” she adds.
A mother’s strength
Rocio’s unwavering advocacy extends beyond her children’s medical and educational journeys. While pregnant with Max, she was diagnosed with a large lung tumor, and doctors presented her with the difficult choice to prioritize either her life, Max’s life or risk both.
Rocio chose to prioritize Max, trusting they would survive together. Max was born healthy via C-section and credits Dr. Brian Palafox, a thoracic surgeon at CHOC, for saving her and Max’s lives.
As someone who also cares for her 87-year-old mother, a cancer and heart attack survivor, Rocio draws strength from the example her mother has set. “Resilience runs in our family,” she says.
An older sister’s support
Astrid, Max’s and Aolani’s older sister, has also been their rock. Rocio recalls, “Astrid was my right hand—helping with homework, attending medical appointments, and teaching them to believe in themselves, especially during tough times.” When Aolani began violin lessons, Astrid drove her and contacted their local mariachi academy to enroll her siblings. Most recently, she encouraged Aolani and Max to connect with Pacific Symphony violinist Jennise at CHOC’s Patient Celebration Day. Astrid’s unwavering support has been key to Max and Aolani’s growth as both musicians and individuals.
Blooming together
Family is at the heart of the Chavez household. Aolani enjoys helping her grandmother make bean and cheese burritos or sopes, while Max and Aolani love taking their chihuahua on walks with their dad. The family cheers on Max and Aolani at their performances, celebrating their talents. With the support of both family and community, they continue to find creative ways to nurture Max and Aolani’s passions and dreams.
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Learn more about the Thompson Autism and Neurodevelopmental Center at CHOC
CHOC Hospital was named one of the nation’s best children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report in its 2024-25 Best Children’s Hospitals rankings and ranked in the behavioral health specialty.
