Donations sought to support life-saving treatment for daughter of CFL legend, Stampeders coach Barron Miles

Photo courtesy: Bob Butrym/RFB Sport Photography

A new GoFundMe has been launched to support the family of longtime CFL player and current Calgary Stampeders coach Barron Miles, as his daughter continues to pursue treatment for a rare and debilitating medical condition.

Ava Miles has been battling median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) for over three years, a rare condition which is characterized by persistent pain, nausea, and vomiting. Her illness has resulted in severe gastrointestinal and vascular complications, repeated hospitalizations, and multiple bouts of sepsis.

According to the fundraising page, which was launched by legendary CFL head coach Wally Buono and his wife, Sande, on June 2, doctors in Miles’ home state of Arizona say they have exhausted all treatment options and that the only path forward is specialized care at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.

Miles previously received life-saving treatment at the Cleveland Clinic in 2024, which was partially funded by an American GoFundMe page that raised over $148,000 USD. However, the family says that money is now gone and that their total out-of-pocket costs have now exceeded $300,000 USD after being denied healthcare coverage. That has forced them to drain their savings and retirement funds, sell their car, and downsize their life.

The previous GoFundMe page remains active and is accepting fresh donations. However, the new page established by the Buonos on behalf of the family will allow donations in Canadian currency, making it easier for CFL fans to contribute.

As of publishing, the Canadian fundraiser had raised close to $26,000 on a goal of $402,000. The estimated expenses for Miles’ treatment include $52,000 for medical evaluation and testing, $187,000 for surgery, $77,000 for hospitalization and treatment, $28,000 for travel to and accommodations in Ohio, $10,000 for medication and recovery support, and another $48,000 in ongoing medical expenses.

Inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2018, Barron Miles spent 12 years in the CFL as a defensive back, seven seasons with the Alouettes and five with the B.C. Lions. He hoisted the Grey Cup twice as a player in 2002 with Montreal and in 2006 with B.C. The six-time league all-star made 66 career interceptions — second-most in CFL history — during his playing days. He also holds the league record for most blocked kicks with 13.

The 54-year-old has since worked as a coach for seven different CFL franchises. Most notably, he served as the defensive coordinator for the Montreal Alouettes (2021-22) and the Ottawa Redblacks (2023-24), interrupted by a stop in U Sports with Bishop’s University. Miles is currently the defensive backs coach for the Calgary Stampeders.

Ava is seeking to begin treatment at the Cleveland Clinic in August. The link to contribute to the GoFundMe can be found by clicking here.