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"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?"

Throughout my life, I have battled Cystic Fibrosis—a journey marked by resilience, unexpected setbacks, and growth. As a child, I was diligent with my medications and treatments and enjoyed a healthy, active life. But everything changed one afternoon when a simple chore led to a major turning point. I was helping our neighbor, who had cancer, by spreading mulch around her yard. Unaware of the risks, I spent hours inhaling mold spores from old mulch. That night, I went into respiratory distress and was rushed to the ER. Eventually, doctors discovered I had developed aspergillus in my lungs. This marked the start of a difficult chapter filled with intense treatments, long hospital stays, and emotional and physical hardship. I went from an energetic kid who loved sports to someone who struggled just to breathe. Despite these setbacks, I refused to let my illness define me. Instead, I chose to view my challenges as an opportunity to grow in empathy, perseverance, and purpose. I began to understand that while hardship might be part of the story, it doesn't have to be the whole story. When I was thirteen, I had the opportunity to spend a weekend with Tim Tebow at an LSU-Auburn game in Baton Rouge. During that time, he shared a quote that stuck with me: "God will never waste your pain." Those words gave me a new perspective. Inspired by his message and mission, I organized a Tough Mudder event called "Tebow Tough," rallying 25 friends and teammates to help raise $12,000 for the Tim Tebow Foundation. Their goal—to bring faith, hope, and love to those in their darkest hour—deeply resonated with me and became part of my own mission. Living with a chronic illness has shaped how I view the world. It has given me a deep compassion for others who are suffering. I've tried to live this out by serving through Filter of Hope, a ministry that provides clean water to impoverished communities. I spent a week in San José, Costa Rica, installing over 40 water filters in underserved neighborhoods, and I'll be returning this July to serve in the Dominican Republic. These experiences have shown me that even while navigating my own struggles, I can still bring hope and help to others. While I'm still learning what it means to live out this calling each day, I hope my life is a reminder that chronic illness doesn't limit the ability to lead, serve, and inspire. My goal is to be a voice of encouragement - a living example that while pain may be part of your story, it doesn't have to be the end. Just last week, I was named the 2025 recipient of the Junior Mannies Scholarship. I was the only basketball player in Indiana to receive this award. This award recognizes high school seniors who have overcome physical challenges while making meaningful contributions to their schools athletic programs. Here is the article : https://1010wcsi.com/local-sports/ferguson-brothers-honored-for-leadership-resilience-at-columbus-north/.