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"How has your journey with CF shaped the problems you want to solve and the impact you hope to have on others?"

I was born with a terminal disease called Cystic Fibrosis. Having CF has always been a major part of my life and has affected me greatly in some circumstances. I've never let my CF get in the way or stop me from doing what I love most. I thrive by going out of my comfort zone, challenging, and testing myself to make me a better person. I would love to have an impact on others to show and teach them that anything is possible if they have perseverance, dedication, and hard work. In my story, I'm proof that if you never give up, work hard, persevere, and have dedication, that you can dream big, set large goals, and live life to the fullest fighting CF. Throughout my life, I have been hospitalized once due to my CF and I've been tested with many different health challenges. I struggled with Growth Hormone Deficiency so in 2016, I began doing daily injections to help me grow which resulted in roughly 1,900 shots. I've been diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis arthritis and I've had three knee surgeries resulting in months of physical therapy. These are just a few of my health challenges that I've had to deal with. On top of these trials, I was still required to take my daily medication, go to many doctor appointments, go to school, church, sports events, and do an hour of my breathing treatments everyday. I have learned so much from these trials and they have shaped me to be the positive person I am today. I have learned to be thankful for the little things, to not take anything for granted, preserve, work hard, never give up, have a positive mindset, and always trust in the Lord's perfect plan. My journey with CF has never been easy, but it has made me a stronger person with a positive attitude and reminds me that life is a gift that I need to fill everyday with purpose. I hope that my story can have a great impact on others who are living with a critical illness to never let their diagnosis or situation hold them back from anything, but take advantage of what they have, work hard, and chase after their big goals. I also aim to inspire by example by pursuing an education, being active, involved, and obtaining my goals while managing my health everyday. Life is hard and you will always face hardships that can be used as a learning and growing experience but it's how to face the trials and overcome them that can shape you to be a better person. I shared my trials to show that they are a part of the journey and in order to learn and grow from them I needed to work hard and see the positive outcome in each trial. Ultimately, I want others to be reminded to never give up, set high goals, and know that their story can be encouraging to someone else.