Matt De Fina was born with Cystic Fibrosis- a fatal, genetic disease that predominantly effects the lungs. Cystic Fibrosis causes the body to produce abnormally thick and sticky mucus. This thick, sticky mucus obstructs the airways, causing decreased lung capacity and decreased lung function. The mucus also serves as a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, which lead to life-threatening lung infections, as well. Matt was diagnosed with this disease at 20 days old and his parents were initially told that he wouldn’t live to see his 4th birthday. Despite this grave prognosis, Matt’s parents were determined to see him beat this disease and live a normal, happy life. Thus, they were very disciplined and dedicated in their approach, making sure that Matt never missed a medication or treatment, received proper nutrition, and saw his Pulmonologists at Oakland Children’s Hospital on a regular basis. Despite their efforts, Matt was still hospitalized many times throughout his childhood due to exacerbations of his Cystic Fibrosis. However, Matt and his parents were able to beat that prognosis and by the time he was in Elementary School, his disease began to stabilize and he began to flourish in school, sports, and other activities. Throughout Elementary, Middle, and High School, Matt was very active and played numerous sports, including Baseball, Basketball, Tennis, and Track & Field. His Cystic Fibrosis was under control.