Meet the 2019 Scholars

"Choose one inspirational quote or motto that has helped you throughout your journey with cystic fibrosis. How do you live by your quote or motto and how has it motivated you to accomplish your goals?"

Inspirational Quote: “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style”. Maya Angelou Cystic Fibrosis makes me the person I am today, but it does not define who I am. When I was younger, I was discouraged by my disease and thought it would limit and hold me back from reaching my full potential. However, my mentality changed once I reached high school and no longer saw CF as a restriction from living a normal life, but instead motivated me to live life to the fullest; I wanted to thrive. I became confident and proud in the person I was, and wanted to be an example and inspiration for others facing challenges with CF or other diseases. I want to show people that disabilities don’t mean you aren’t able to achieve something, but may mean you have to work harder and longer to achieve it. With this new mindset, I became involved in sports. As every year became more athletically competitive, my disease became more challenging. Between doctor’s appointments, waking at 5:30 am for treatments before school, taking enzymes with every meal, difficulties breathing, life with CF has not been easy but it has pushed me to become driven in all I do. Without this disease, I would not be the strong, confident, positive person I am. Therefore, I do not merely survive, but I thrive; with passion, compassion, humor, and style!