Cystic Fibrosis:
Now, most of you probably have no idea what this is. Cystic Fibrosis, commonly nicknamed CF is a genetic disorder of the lungs and digestive system. People who have this disease have overproduction of mucus, and it builds up in these places; making it hard for them to breathe and digest foods. It is life threatening. This disease has made a huge impact on my life. My best friends, but more importantly cousins have this disease. They are the strongest people I have ever met and I look up to them more than anyone else in the whole entire world. They are my heroes. They have to go through so much just in order to make it through each day. They have to take pills before they eat anything; and they also have to use a machine called a vest that helps shake the mucus from their lungs both when they wake up and before they go to bed at night. There is currently no cure for this disease. Last Thursday, March 15 marked 18 years since my cousin was diagnosed. She is doing so well right now; she'll be going to college in the fall (she got a full ride scholarship), she has a boyfriend, and is almost number one in her class. My biggest goal in my life is to do absolutely everything in my power to help find a cure for this disease within their lifetime. CF is not a very well- known disease but to anyone who has experience with it-- it has a HUGE impact on your life. The people living with it are absolutely phenomenal and unbelievably strong. So please, if you hear about events near you to support this disease, become a part of them so we can raise awareness and find a cure for CF! :)