Personal Story & Mission
Coming from a South Asian background, I feel a strong responsibility to advocate for CF awareness in my community. It wasn't until my freshman year of high school in 2024 that I self-diagnosed based on my symptoms, later confirmed by genetic testing.
Featured Documentary: Cystic Fibrosis Research Institute (CFRI) Documentary
I was recently interviewed by the CFRI for a film project focused on personal stories of living with CF.
- The Goal: Challenging the myth that CF is solely a "Caucasian disease" and encouraging earlier diagnosis in diverse communities.
- Watch / Listen: YouTube | Podbean
Latest Publication: Discovering My CF Diagnosis as a Teenager
In this CFF Community Post, I detail the specific challenges of navigating a late diagnosis and the importance of self-advocacy within the healthcare system.
Legislative Advocacy
Nominated as a teen representative for the Northern California Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, I engaged in national meetings to drive policy change.
National Meeting Talking Points:
- Medicaid Impact: Medicaid covers 50% of children and 1/3 of adults living with CF.
- Policy Ask: Urged Congress to oppose cuts to Medicaid to ensure people with CF maintain access to life-saving therapies.
- Disease Awareness: Shared the reality of CF as a progressive genetic disease affecting ~40,000 people in the U.S..
Awareness & Publications
CFF Magazine Article (May 2025)
Published during Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, this piece shares my personal journey to support fundraising and broader community advocacy.