The Myrtle Beach community is grieving the loss of Ava Holland, a 15-year-old sophomore at Atlantic Collegiate Academy and a beloved volleyball player, after she suffered fatal injuries in a car accident while traveling to school on February 4, 2026.
Ava’s medical condition worsened despite intensive treatment at the pediatric ICU of the Medical University of South Carolina. After neurological testing was completed, doctors officially declared her brain dead on February 19, 2026, at 3:57 p.m.
Following the accident, Ava was first treated at Grand Strand Hospital before being transferred to Charleston for specialized care. Medical teams worked continuously to stabilize her condition, but severe brain swelling caused irreversible and non-survivable injury.
Her family later shared that they were preparing to honor Ava’s wishes regarding organ donation.
Ava had registered as an organ donor when she obtained her driver’s license. Her decision allowed her organs to be matched with recipients in need through Sharing Hope SC, with the potential to save up to eight lives.
Family spokesperson Tony Pimentel said organ donation carried deep meaning for the Holland family because Ava’s grandfather had previously been a transplant recipient. The family described the choice as a reflection of Ava’s compassionate personality.
An Honor Walk was planned at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital on February 23, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., with attendees asked to arrive by 4:30 p.m.
Students, friends, volleyball teammates, and community members were encouraged to participate. The ceremony allowed hospital staff and loved ones to line the hallway in silent tribute as Ava was transported for organ procurement surgery.
The family announced plans for a celebration of life service on March 5, 2026, which would have been Ava’s 16th birthday.
Additional funeral and memorial arrangements were expected to be shared later by the Holland family as they continued to grieve privately while receiving community support.
Ava was remembered as a bright student-athlete who maintained a 5.0 GPA and played defensive roles on the volleyball court. Coaches and teachers described her as quiet but impactful, highlighting her kindness, humility, and positive attitude.
The tragedy prompted many residents of Myrtle Beach to discuss organ donation awareness after learning about Ava’s decision to register as a donor.
A GoFundMe campaign created to help the family has raised more than $113,000, surpassing its initial $100,000 goal. The funds are being used for medical expenses, travel costs, funeral preparations, and living expenses so Ava’s parents, Angie and David Holland, can focus on supporting their sons, Ryan and Aiden.
Though Ava’s life was cut short by the crash, her legacy continues through the lives she may save through organ donation. Friends and classmates remember her for her smile, kindness, and ability to make others feel included.
The Myrtle Beach community continues to mourn while honoring a young athlete whose final decision reflected extraordinary generosity and courage.
Ava Holland’s story remains a powerful reminder of the impact of compassion, selflessness, and the life-saving potential of organ donation.
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