Fatima P.'s Essay

Having CF has taught me the importance of discoveries and innovations in medicine. I am thankful to doctors and researchers for inventing extraordinary medications that help me breathe better and live longer everyday. Having CF is not a gift, but it is a catalyst that has inspired me to go above and beyond traditional expectations for CF patients. My strong interest in science and math pushed me to explore the world of medicine. I attended the University or Illinois at Chicago from 2003-2006 and received a degree in Biochemistry. With this degree, I am currently doing medical research to find a cure for traumatic brain injury, but I still want to become a physician. I want to become a physician not only because I love learning about the human body, but also because I want to be a leader and a role model for other CF patients. I want to show them that, with extra effort, life can still be exceptionally productive. It has not been easy juggling heavy science courses and medical research with CF, but I always keep in mind that innovations in medicine have helped me lead a better life and I want to use my talents to do the same for others. With hard work, motivation and the decision to not let CF get in the way, I have succeeded in my commitment to pursue science to better the lives of others and would like to continue this journey as a graduate and medical student.