You had wreaked havoc on my body for 22 years, stealing nourishment, lung function, friends, and my hopes and dreams for the future.

My parents were devastated with the diagnosis when I was only 2. the next 20 years were spent waiting for me to wither away.

Too many have lost the battle against the unrelenting opponent.

Eventually, as my hospitalizations increased and my strength and will to live decreased we began to lose hope.

Until April 04, 2005. This is the day I BEAT YOU. I stared death in the face and walked away.