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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'm totally fine!" Living with cystic fibrosis is anything but ordinary. Growing up in a small private school, I was often confronted with the reality that my day-to-day life was different from my peers. Often seen as shy and introverted, I chose to keep my personal story private. Similar to a heavy yoke that I quietly carried myself. I noticed my hesitation in social connections, my desire to secretly swallow my medication during mealtime when no one was looking, and some mild anxiety associated with hiding my disease. Nobody prepares you for how to mentally navigate the challenges of living with CF. Skipping evening activities because you must manage your nightly breathing treatments or missing school because your persistent, obnoxious cough just won't go away. How does a young child express her fear of missing out, her concerns that people will think she's different, or her desire to connect and fit in? My 6th grade year, I challenged myself to share my airway clearance and nebulizer treatments during a speech class. This shift in transparency resulted in a realization that leaders can create opportunities for inclusion. As I described my daily challenges of living with cystic fibrosis, I watched my peers exchange surprised glances. Building on this insight, I intertwined my experiences into every academic opportunity I could. While completing several school assignments, I was able to weave in the importance of understanding disabilities. My junior year, I completed a year-long capstone thesis entitled: Christian Wisdom on Bioethical Considerations with Genetic Technology allowing me to debate the future of CF. No longer timid, I grew into a fierce advocate while proudly wearing a badge of inclusivity. Through these moments, I initiated a sense of awareness in my school community. By fostering empathy and activism through advocacy, I helped build an inclusive community where people feel seen, loved, and understood. But more importantly, I began to trust myself and reconnect with who I am. Through my CF journey, I have learned the importance of mental health. The fragile web of protecting the vulnerable and the mind. A silent battle that is often overlooked but should always be addressed. CF has taught me to take note of my mental health- always checking in, asking questions, using resources, and accessing mentors like my parents or friends. My disease brought forth a different type of awareness. Not just an understanding of CF itself, but an awareness of mental health. Firsthand, I have seen this disease's toil and effect over my mind, and I truly believe it has offered me an in-depth opportunity to share my struggles with others. When we discuss the importance of sharing our stories, we can be a beacon of hope to others. Whether it be through my future profession as a nurse, a friend, or a family member, I look forward to shedding light on inclusion and mental health because I've been there, and I understand. For when someone says, "I'm fine," I truly want to make sure they are.