I’m 31 and a half years old now, and I can honestly say I never imagined my life would be what it is today because of cystic fibrosis (CF). Growing up, I was one of the lucky ones. I didn’t have many hospital admissions or serious illnesses, and that was largely due to my mum’s dedication to keeping me as healthy as possible. But, as grateful as I am for that, there was also a downside: I lost my connection to other CF warriors. I didn’t get the chance to form those close bonds with others who understood exactly what I was going through.

 When I was a teenager, this was tough. I often felt very alone. I didn’t have friends who shared the same experience, and kids can be mean. I never got bullied for my illness, but I was constantly afraid of being bullied. Without a group of people who truly understood, I hid my CF from others. I wouldn’t take my medication at school, and I avoided acknowledging it in any way. Looking back, I realize how much that isolation affected me.

But as I entered adulthood, everything changed. I made a decision: I was no longer going to hide from my illness or let it define me. Instead, I became a proud CF warrior. I decided to speak out, raise awareness, and educate others about CF. For me, this is so important. The more I talked about it, the more I could show people that CF doesn’t define who I am.

One of the things that still surprises people is that I’m healthy, sporty, and active. When I tell someone I have CF, they’re often shocked. I’m not the image they expect of someone with this illness, and that’s a powerful opportunity to educate them. Just because I don’t “look sick” doesn’t mean CF isn’t a huge part of my life. CF may not always be visible, but it’s always present. And I’ve learned that sharing my story is the best way to challenge misconceptions and raise awareness.

Living with CF has never held me back from living the life I want. I’ve refused to let it define my limits. I believe I have CF for a reason, even though I don’t know exactly what that reason is yet. But one day, I’ll understand. My life is proof that CF warriors are more than their condition.