Lauren R.'s Essay

Up until only two years ago Cystic Fibrosis was my enemy. We fought constantly, every second of every day. If I wanted to play softball, it wanted to take my breath away. If I wanted to go to the beach, it wanted to give me pneumonia. If I wanted to play the flute in band, it wanted to make me dizzy. When I cried at night after a long day of coughing, it only made me cough harder. There had been many days and many nights where I sat down and asked my mother, “Why me?” After years of envying my friends and family who are able to come home at night and not have to do and take countless medications, I have finally come to appreciate the strength and perseverance that Cystic Fibrosis has given me. Although I have CF, I have still played softball, soccer, and tennis, had a job, fought with my parents, visited Italy, and have been on the high honor roll. I have made a wish with the Make-A-Wish foundation, and raised over $5,000 for Cystic Fibrosis with help from my family and friends. I have dared my disease to kill me, and then dared my disease to let me live so I could beat it. Even with the sadness and pain that comes with CF, I would not be who I am today without it. I can remember times where I wanted nothing more than for the world to stop; but, I look at myself now as a strong, ambitious, independent young woman and see my future. Living with Cystic Fibrosis has truly inspired me to welcome the challenges and obstacles which will continue to come my way in life.