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?"

“You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” ― Marcus Aurelius Having Cystic Fibrosis is out of my control, but I control how I react to the challenges that come with it. I am so much more than a cystic fibrosis patient. I choose not to let CF rule over everything I do because CF doesn't define me. Cystic Fibrosis has a large impact on my work ethic. I am much more inclined to work harder to achieve my goals because I know that with what little time I have, I need to make an impact. I work really hard in school, for example, I was co-president of Model UN the year our teacher left the club. This meant designing a curriculum while simultaneously doing my own research. I worked tirelessly to ensure the success of myself and my team, and in the end, the entire team had an excellent conference experience. For most students, going to a 4 day Model UN conference strictly consists of going to committee. For me, I have to fit my treatments into that schedule, which leaves me with little sleep. It’s not a glorious experience but I work through it because I don’t let CF stop me from pursuing my passions. I don’t have power over the schedule but I do have power over my own mindset. CF is not a choice, but how I handle it is.