Voting Is Now OPEN

"Consider the positive influence you aspire to have as someone living with cystic fibrosis. How do you hope to inspire and empower future generations of young adults with chronic illnesses?"

When I think on the impact I want to leave on the world, I think of those that came before me. Many people have come and gone from this earth, leaving in their wake a legacy of positivity and joy. I want my life to be another example of these attributes. Despite all of the hardship that comes as a result of having chronic health challenges, I truly believe that we can find true, unending, unbreakable joy in life. Chronic health conditions are an incredibly heavy burden to bear. For those who are afflicted with a chronic condition, a great deal of physical care, mental fortitude, and emotional resilience is required. I am no exception to that rule; I have endured several near-death experiences at the hands of Cystic Fibrosis. It is unfortunate to see, but many people with unrelenting health conditions adopt a dark, pessimistic, unhappy worldview. I'm sure nobody would begrudge me for adopting a similar perspective. Thankfully, I have been able to avoid the outlook of despair and hopelessness thanks to a positive attitude. I believe that a positive attitude can be a powerful protective factor for those fighting through health challenges. My family would tell you that despite the hardships I have been through, I have been able to remain unnaturally happy and positive. Whenever I find myself in a hard situation, I try to ask myself, "What can I learn from this? How can I better myself?" It sounds silly to say, but becoming comfortable with the discomfort that comes with chronic illness is a skill that would serve many people well. It certainly has been a great strength for me. Chronic illness breeds uncertainty for the future. Many people faced with a terminal diagnosis not only mourn the suffering they will endure, but the death of the dreams they once held. I understand that feeling; one of my greatest dreams in life is to have a family. I grew up believing that having children would be incredibly difficult, if not impossible, for me and my wife. Seeing the pain in my wife's eyes at the thought of us never having children nearly killed me inside. Despite that pain, I continued on. I am pleased to report that, thanks to the miracle of modern medical innovation, my son was born in February of 2025. My greatest dream has come true, and I could not be more full of joy! To those who are currently struggling with a chronic health condition, here's what I have to say: don't quit. Keep trying, keep hoping, and keep pursuing your dreams. For all of the suffering you have pushed through, goodness that outweighs the bad is coming for you. My life is a testament that joy is not only possible, but inevitable if you keep searching for it.