Ali Christensen August 2008
Ali Christensen strongly believes disability can be surpassed by the abilities that you do possess. At 18-years-old, she is the third of four children, all of whom have cystic fibrosis (CF). From first hand observation of the success of her siblings, Ali emphasizes that despite obstacles, people can still live life to the fullest and pursue their goals and dreams. Ali has a talented and diverse group of siblings that have never let CF stop them from living their lives. Her older brother Shaun, 23, is one of the top golfers in Idaho. April, 24, is a wonderful mother of two, and her little sister Christina, 12, sings and dances, claiming that she is even better than her older sister Ali - and Ali agrees that she may be right! All the Christensen children embody the philosophy that if you work hard and believe in yourself, you can do anything.
Work Hard and Live Strong
Every day for Ali begins with following a consistent medical routine, which is a key to success in fighting the disease. Waking up early in the morning, she begins to plow through a number of inhaled and antibiotic medicines she must take to keep her body strong and lungs from deteriorating. Staying consistent with medication, exercise and healthy eating is extremely important.
"I would like to share a message of hope to those who believe that they, or someone they love, cannot achieve their goals and dreams in life because of CF: focus on the positives and try to fix the negatives," said Ali. "I live joyfully and dream big and that has made all the difference!"
Singer, Dancer, Fighter!
Ali has become an expert in spotlighting her abilities and overcoming her disabilities. She is a talented singer and dancer who has won multiple competitions, a member of the group Singers on Stage, and she performs at local events in her home state of Idaho. In 2006, she was named the first runner-up and Miss Congeniality to Miss Idaho's Outstanding Teen 2006. Ali has even discovered a way to integrate her passion for singing and dance into her lung therapy. She stays active by keeping on top of her dance and jumping on a trampoline.
Ali's talent and hard-work are also apparent in her school activities. A recently graduated high school senior, Ali was class Vice President, a cheerleader and homecoming queen, while still maintaining high grades. In the fall, Ali will attend Brigham Young University Idaho where she will study broadcast journalism. Growing up with a father who has a career in politics has instilled in Ali a love of government and current events, and she hopes to use her studies in journalism to lay the basis for her future in government with high aspirations of perhaps becoming the first female president.
Giving Back to the Community
Besides studying, staying abreast of current events and hanging out with her friends, Ali spends her timing boating, hiking and doing volunteer work. The cause that Ali is most committed to is one that is close to home: she has raised more than $25,000 for programs that help people with disabilities,like illness, with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Primary Children's Hospital and Development Workshop.
Gaining Strength from a Loving Family
Growing up with a brother and sisters who all have CF has had a significant impact on the way Ali views her condition. According to Ali, it's tough to indulge in self-pity when you see that your siblings are staying positive and succeeding despite cystic fibrosis. Her family has always helped her to maintain her equilibrium and stay committed to being proactive and positive about her health.
Please note: The information contained on these Heroes of Hope™ Living with CF award recipient biographies are not regularly updated. The information only represents the point in time when the Heroes of Hope recipient was honored.
