Hi, I’m Tolliver, and I’m 8 years old. I have something called cystic fibrosis. It’s a tricky thing in my body that makes my lungs and tummy work differently than other people’s. I have to do a lot of things every day to help my body stay strong and healthy.

Every morning, I wake up and do my treatments. First, I put on my vest, which makes funny noises and shakes my whole body. It’s like a mini massage, but it’s to help me breathe better. Then, I take some medicine that helps me to grow. 

Sometimes, I cough a lot. It feels weird, but the doctors say it’s my body’s way of getting rid of the gunk inside. I don’t like coughing, but it helps me feel better, even if it’s kind of embarrassing in school.

I also have to eat extra special food. I take some pills with my meals to help my body get the good stuff from the food. I love pizza, but I can’t eat it without those pills, or I won’t feel good later.

At school, I tell my friends that I have cystic fibrosis so they can understand why I need to take breaks, miss school, or do my treatments. I missed a lot of school this year. I even had to stay in the hospital for 14 days! They are always nice about it. Sometimes, they ask if they can try my vest or watch me do my breathing treatments. I like that they care about me.

Even though I have cystic fibrosis, I do lots of fun things, like riding my bike and playing football. My doctors and my mom say it’s important to do the treatments and take care of myself, so I can keep doing the things I love.

Some days I get tired and don’t feel like doing anything, but that’s okay because I know it will get better once I do my treatments. And when I feel better, I can go out and have fun again!

Having cystic fibrosis is a little hard sometimes, but it doesn’t stop me from being happy and doing the things I like. My family helps me, and my friends support me. I know I’m strong, and I’m not alone in this.

Thanks for reading my story!