Kelly R.'s Essay

“Living with CF has taught me…” that I am a member of an amazing group of people. People living with this challenge have a beautiful, unselfish perspective on life. However, I also believe that this perspective extends beyond only us, to include people battling cancer, soldiers sacrificing for their country, and those mourning the loss of a loved one. Of course these examples do not include all members of this group, but they do provide a small sampling of those who have true perspective on the value and meaning of life.

As a person living with Cystic Fibrosis, I am learning those universal lessons of life that members of this amazing group are learning everyday. These lessons are somewhat cliché, but they are cliché for a reason.

• Find a support group; friends, teachers, parents, doctors, and never hesitate to lean on them.
• Live your life as if tomorrow may never come. No one knows when their time on Earth may be up, so have no regrets, and your life will be filled with warm memories that make you smile.
• Celebrate the small things. Go out to dinner after a good doctor’s appointment, and wear a shiny crown at your next birthday party!
• Embrace everyone that has ever come into your life. They were there for a reason and have made you who you are today.
• Never say “never.” Positive thoughts, loving yourself, and preparation can help you accomplish what your believed possible.