Alysoune Coleman

The Current Hero of Hope

"Everyone should be involved in something they enjoy," Alysoune says. "Just because you have CF doesn't mean that you have to sit at home and be closed off. I love playing sports, which inspire me and give me a goal to work toward. Sports have helped me understand the importance of my health maintenance routine to my overall health."

Alysoune Coleman

Alysoune Coleman is an active, outgoing 13-year-old from Arizona who enjoys the outdoors and loves athletics. Despite living with the chronic illness cystic fibrosis (CF), Alysoune approaches life with a positive attitude and a smile. Dr. Joan DeCelie-Germana, director of the Cystic Fibrosis Center at Schneider Children's Hospital in New Hyde Park, New York recently had the opportunity to chat with Alysoune and learn more about this inspirational Hero.

I know you are a really active junior-high student. What are some of the things you like to do?

I am in my third year of running track, and I love it! I run with a track club called the AZ Flames and recently achieved my personal best time in the 800 meter event. I also like to play soccer and tennis and enjoy playing the piano.

How do you balance your busy schedule while still maintaining your health?

Staying on top of my medications is definitely a priority, and I get up early every morning to do my breathing treatments before school. With all my activities, I was having some trouble keeping my weight up. So my doctor had a G-tube put in and that has helped me a lot. I also have diabetes, so I make sure to keep an eye on my blood sugar, especially during sports when it tends to fluctuate.

What motivates you when things get a little tough?

I just tell myself that if do my best every day, that is all that I can do. My attitude can help change how I see the tough stuff in life.

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