MANDY WAGNER

written by Emily Routh

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If you are lucky in this life, when all is said and done, you can look back fondly and know that you've become the best version of yourself, made a positive impact on the people you've known, and left the world a better place. By these measures, Mandy Wagner was one of the luckiest people around. Although her time here was limited, her indelible spirit left a mark far greater than most could only dream. Diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at a young age in the mid 80's, not much was known about the disease, and statistics at the time were not nearly as promising as today. This didn't matter to Mandy. She was going to live a positive, fulfilling life no matter the odds. Her bravery was that of a warrior, her optimism was next to none. Her infectious laugh and constant genuine smile drew people to her. She was determined to live life to the fullest extent each and every day. A social butterfly, people were drawn to her. She was a master of ceremonies. Her greatest gift was her ability to bring people together. To know her was to love her, to meet her was to have a friend for life. Cystic Fibrosis may have had an effect on her body, but never on her heart and soul. The good times she had and the memories she was the driving force in creating are remembered fondly each and every day by her closest friends. It is with this in mind that we created the Mandy Wagner Foundation. Our goal is to have her legacy live on through you, the recipients. We hope that these scholarships can help you to reach your goals and fulfill your life's ambitions. Go forth and own each day. Leave your mark on this world, because there is no chronic infection more chronic than one's pursuit of happiness, and no medical diagnosis that can be given to a dream.