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?"

One motto that I choose to live by is: “Live a life worthy of the breath that has been given to me.” This may be odd coming from a person where breathing does not always come easily. However, even days where breathing is a challenge, I am still alive. Even when my health declines and my thoughts are heavy, I have an opportunity to grab ahold of my life and live it out the best that I can. Whether it is teaching someone to draw, telling jokes to my care team, or sharing the hope I hold with my peers, there are opportunities everyday to live a fulfilling life. Reflecting on my past, I can see all that I’ve overcome by taking steps of courage to live my life worthy of the breath that has been given to me. Those steps might be as simple as getting out of bed and going to class when I feel more sick, or as crazy as going to Mexico to bring hope and new homes to people in need. No matter what size the step is, I will always strive to take it. The next steps that I will take include my goals of becoming an art teacher. I hope to encourage students through whatever challenges they face so that they too can lead a fulfilling life. I aspire to always look at my life with a smile, knowing that I am living my best life despite the challenges that Cystic Fibrosis gives.