2009
Chelsea M. Howell is from Louisville, KY and will be attending Bellarmine University and is pursuing a nursing degree. Chelsea has many chronic disorders ranging from Chronic pancreatitis, gastric outlet obstruction, cystic fibrosis dysfunction, Arnold Chiari malformation, Vater syndrome, and congenital Scoliosis just to name a few. She has been put to sleep for surgeries/procedures thirty-five times in seventeen years of her life including being cut open from hip to hip seven times. “…I have learned to appreciate every day and will never take a single moment for granted because of my surgeries, illnesses and the loss of my grandfather by a drunk driver eight years ago.”
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Olivia W. Lee is from Rochester, NY and will be attending Cornell University to pursue an undergraduate education that will prepare her for medical school. When she was 14 Olivia was diagnosed with systemic lupus. “…Lupus has inspired me to use my God given talents to focus on others rather than myself. Living with lupus has given me a heart of compassion for those who suffer. Now I gladly share my story, hoping it will inspire and encourage others. I have learned not to take anything for granted, especially my health.”
Stuart J. Mott is from Wauwatosa, WI and will be attending University of WI-Madison. Stuart has Crohn’s disease, an autoimmune inflammatory disorder of the GI tract. “…In addition to the medical impact of the disease, it also affects my social life when symptoms unexpectedly spike or I have a prolonged flare up. Dealing with the disease on a daily basis has led me to become involved with finding a cure. I have hope for the future and am committed to not letting this illness prevent me from reaching the goals I have set for myself in life.”
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Stephen J. Nicolosi is from Clarks Summit, PA and will be attending The University of Scranton to pursue a nursing degree. Stephen was diagnosed in early childhood with severe Hemophilia, a life-long bleeding disorder which causes bleeding episodes into the joints and muscles of the body. “…Even if I can manage to have a profound positive impact on one adult, or one child with Hemophilia, then my goals would be accomplished. Today people lecture on changing our world. I am ready to lead by example to make the change happen.”
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Andrew S. Reiver is from Huntington, NY and will be attending University of Michigan with a Pre-Medicine/Biology major. Andrew also has Hemophilia A which has had a tremendous impact on his life. “…Studying the biology behind my disease and my experiences with many health care professionals have helped guide me to what I believe will be my career as a doctor and/or researcher. Coping with hemophilia has given me the courage and determination to overcome any obstacle and has made me more sympathetic to others.”
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Joshua D. Rozenfeld is from West Caldwell, NJ and may be attending Keiser with an interest in studying computers. Joshua has generalized Dystonia which causes twisting and posturing movements and in Josh’s case limits his walking, and arm movements. He takes 25 pills to help treat his Dystonia but at the cost of many side effects. “…One positive outcome of my disability is that I’ve learned the importance of becoming involved and helping others. I speak and tell other kids who suffer that it doesn’t mean they can’t live a satisfying life.”
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Chloe C. VanAlstine is from Wells, NY and will be attending Ithaca College with a Liberal Arts degree. Chloe has a chronic disorder called Tethered Chord Syndrome and Asthma. She had spinal chord surgery to correct the problem which left her with permanent nerve damage in her leg. “…I believe the chronic conditions I suffer have actually made me a better, stronger more determined person, teammate and friend. I have worked hard to overcome my conditions and have strived to be a good and positive example to those with similar or more serious challenges.”