LITCHFIELD, Conn. — When doctors first told Ava Fischthal she had cancer, her first instinct wasn't to have the "never give up" attitude she's known for. Instead, she met the diagnosis with denial.

However, she almost immediately changed her perspective, believing the opportunity to overcome the obstacle was more important than seeing the worst in her situation. Now, she's known by her loved ones, friends and soccer teammates as a fighter, inspiring them through her courage and uplifting attitude in the face of her battle.

"You can't give up," she said. "Gotta keep going. I guess I was just given that mentality."

Lakeview Regional High School dedicated its home game against Housatonic Valley Regional High School to pediatric cancer awareness, encouraging fans to wear gold to show their

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