Andrew is a very sweet 13 year old. A loving uncle, son, brother, and friend who was diagnosed at birth with a progressive genetic disease called Cystic Fibrosis. It causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe overtime. In people with CF a defective gene causes a thick, sticky buildup of mucus in lungs, pancreas, and other organs. In the lungs, the mucus clogs the airways and traps bacteria leading to infections, extensive lung damage and eventually, respiratory failure. Andrew has dreams to be working and helping with animals. His favorite animals are dogs, he wants to train service dogs for people who need companions. He has many hobbies including art, robotics, tennis, and video gaming. Andrew is currently fighting a bacteria, to be put on the waiting list for a lung transplant. CF has affected Andrew’s life causing many hospital stays throughout his life. CF has also had a huge impact on his everyday lifestyle, taking 3 breathing treatments everyday, getting fed through a g-tube,and taking medication before and after breakfast, lunch and dinner. Through it all Andrew manages to always be kind, generous, strong, caring and loving. 
 Andrew has been told by Drs. that he’ll be needing a lung transplant soon. Full of excitement he is looking forward for a new set of lungs. In spite of the fact that CF has no cure. With the help of a successful lung transplant, Andrew’s life can potentially change by alleviating his symptoms and allowing him to gain weight, and sleep better. His overall physical endurance will improve without feeling tired and out of breath. Please donate to COTA in honor of Andrew so that he can continue the beautiful life he has fought so hard to breathe freely.