Episode #0057 Abby Tranel Wins 2007 Exercise for Life Scholarship

Title: Abby Tranel Wins 2007 Exercise for Life Scholarship Abby Tranel from Hampton, Nebraska wins $10,000 scholar-athlete award for people with CF. Abby ran the 1.5 mile run in 10 minutes 19 seconds at Nebraska Wesleyan University's track in Lincoln, Nebraska. Abby is a graduate of Hampton High School in Hampton, NE and graduated with a 3.5 G.P.A. and will be attending Nebraska Wesleyan University in the fall. Abby has always been involved in sports including volleyball, basketball, and track. School activities include the Student Council, Cheerleading, Speech, Drama, and President of the National Honor Society. Abby was diagnosed with CF at birth and also has an older sister with cystic fibrosis that competed nationally in track & field for University of Nebraska. "Exercise and therapies for CF have very much become an integral part of my life and daily routine.? states Abby. "After a few months of steady running, my lung function tests improved dramatically. It was not just the test results that kept me going with running… I just simply felt better, and most importantly felt that I was now in control of my CF, it was no longer controlling me!? Abby states confidently. Abby lives a normal life and does not make a big deal about CF. "My mom has taught me and my sister to be very independent at an early age and I thank her for that…? Regarding college… "I look forward to meeting new people and am beginning to realize all the opportunities that college and our world has to offer.? Besides being compliant to her medication and therapy, Abby has learned the value of exercise, keeping a routine, and following through for positive results. "I have realized that if you want to be big you have to dream big… and that is just what I am doing despite having CF!? states Abby.