2008
Jessica P. Abel is from Niskayuna, NY and will attend SUNY College of Oneonta and will pursue a degree in teaching. Jessica has a diagnosis of severe autoimmune neutropenia since she was eleven years old and believes there have been several silver linings to her illness. “My life so far is awesome despite the fact that I am sick….I am looking forward to living my dreams and doing my best to make the world a better place. I am not going to let my blood disorder get in my way!”
Conor W. Coyne is from Pittsfield, MA and will be attending the University of Vermont and will focus on Pre-med and computer sciences. Conor has severe Hemophilia A and believes his hemophilia has actually opened more doors than it could ever close. “Even though my hemophilia may present painful or even life-threatening situations, there are worse illnesses. In this, I’m fortunate, even lucky. It also reminded me the difference a positive attitude can make. My experiences inspire me to live each day to its fullest and appreciate the time I have on earth.”
Lauren L. Mancuso is from Berwyn, PA and will be attending the University of Pittsburgh with a focus on nursing. Lauren has Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome which requires lifelong anticoagulation therapy to reduce her risk of life or health threatening thrombosis. “The long term plan is to become a nurse, travel the world helping less fortunate countries gain medical care and knowledge. At the very least, I want people who suffer to realize that life is a precious gift that should be enjoyed and appreciated at every moment.”
Adam C. Millard is from Cypress, TX and will be going to Texas A & M to study genetics and gain entry into medical school. Adam has Hemophilia A and his goals are to become a member of the Corps of Cadets, joining the college band and majoring in Genetics. “I want to go into Medical School because I want to become a hematologist. I think as a hemophiliac myself that I will be able to relate on a personal level with all of my patients.One day, I hope to cure hemophilia, which will let me give back to the bleeding disorder community.”
Michael T. O’Connor is from Cold Spring Harbor, NY and will be attending Amherst College. Michael has been recruited to Amherst due to his excellent swimming skills even though he is a severe Hemophiliac. “Yes, I have severe Hemophilia B, and yes there have been many times in my life where I really hated it. But, in retrospect, I did luck out. I could have been born ten years earlier and been one of the people infected by contaminated medicine. I have been lucky enough to live my life just as anyone else would, to do activities and play sports and even be recruited to one of the best NCAA Division III swim teams in the country-as an athlete.”
Lina E. Smith is from New Hartford, CT and will be attending Williams College pursuing a Management and Psychology degree. Lina has suffered with Ulcerative Colitis with pain and discomfort until her ultimate surgery allowed her to live a more normal life. “As a child having faced medical problems, it seems superficial and insignificant to spend my time having deep discussions about the latest fashion trend or perfecting my already made-up image. I learned how to respect those that may look or act differently, remembering that they too may have a past filled with pain and adversity.”