Meet the 2023 Scholars

"Write a letter to your younger self during a key moment in your life addressing one or more of the following: words of encouragement, lessons you have learned and/or challenges you have overcome."

Dear Sara, Right now things are tough but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. You are dealing with so much suffering but little do you know there are so many people working behind the scenes to help change your life. You need to keep your chin held high because you have a purpose for your life. I know one thing you struggle with is hatred towards your diagnosis of CF. At your young age you find yourself constantly asking the question of “Why is this happening to me?” and “Why do I have to have CF?.” These questions stem from so much confusion due to your age and the unimaginable hardships you face. I know you often grow angry with yourself that your life is what it is because of CF and you can not fathom the reason why bad things like this happen especially to you. Not having the proper understanding about this, challenges your mental health everyday and truly drains the joy out of you. I am here to tell you now, that years later, as a young adult you will finally have gotten past the hatred of your CF diagnosis because of medical advancements. It will finally all make sense. You will fully acknowledge exactly what this diagnosis has done for you and most importantly what it can do for others. I truly wish I could hug you and tell you that everything happens for a reason. The hopelessness you face will be met with medical advancements that are unimaginable. The hatred that consumes you will be met with joy to help others. The lack of understanding that tears you apart will be met with a calm peaceful appreciation. The fear about your future will be met with opportunities that will allow you to truly thrive. Your CF diagnosis makes you who you are and that is exactly why this has happened to you. CF shapes you into who you are and will give you a positive perspective to live your life to the fullest, work hard, and achieve greatness in all things. Most of all your diagnosis will do so much for others. You can be and will be a living example that everything has a purpose and there is nothing you can not conquer. Your true purpose behind this diagnosis is to use your story to advocate for those who are struggling with their own diagnosis and who may not receive the opportunities of medical advancements. It will be so important for you to use your voice and story as proof of how medical advancements truly change CF patients' lives. There is truly a purpose behind all the hardships you faced and will face. It doesn’t make sense now but you must have trust that everything happens for a reason and you will live a life you could only dream of. From, Your Future Self Sara