The Boomer Esiason Foundation has awarded $10,000 scholarships to two college freshmen with cystic fibrosis.
In addition to demonstrating academic success, community involvement, financial need and compliance with CF therapies, applicants for the Exercise for Life scholarship are required to keep a running log for 12 weeks. Selected finalists compete for the scholarship via time trials conducted in their home towns by a representative from the Boomer Esiason Foundation. The fastest male and female finalists are awarded scholarships.
“Doctors and CF care centers have made it clear: When it comes to CF, exercise saves lives,” said Boomer Esiason. “While our ultimate goal is to find a cure for cystic fibrosis, we know that the 30,000 Americans living with the disease need support in the here and now,” Esiason said. “The Exercise for Life scholarship program is one way BEF is meeting the day-to-day needs of people living with CF.”
Taylor Lively, 18, already has moved into his dorm at Harding University in Searcy, Ark. In his time trial, Lively ran 1.5 miles in seven minutes and 13.81 seconds. Lively is a native of Lake Dallas, Texas, where he earned a 3.1 GPA at Lake Dallas High School. He competed in cross country and track and was district champion in three events during his senior year. He also was involved in his church and community. Lively hopes one day to be a physical education teacher or track coach.
Jamie Caminiti, 18, will attend Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Mich. In her time trial, Caminiti ran 1.5 miles in nine minutes and 31.72 seconds. Caminiti is a native of Lapeer, Mich., where she earned a 3.9543 GPA and was a member of the National Honor Society at Lapeer East High School. She competed in cross country and swimming and also participated in band, swimming and a variety of clubs. Caminiti has three siblings, including one with CF, and she said her mottos are “your past determines your future” and “discipline always pays off in the end.” Caminiti plans to major in exercise science and hopes to be a personal trainer.
The Boomer Esiason Foundation is “very proud of Taylor Lively and Jamie Caminiti,” Esiason said. “Dealing with this disease is tough, but they’re living, breathing proof that people with CF can lead full and productive lives.”