Jordan was born in Phoenix on a Wednesday evening, September 4th, 1974. He was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at 22 months. At the time, the average life expectancy of a child born with CF was 11 years. Despite his illness, Jordan grew up into a bright, happy child who enjoyed an active lifestyle playing soccer, tennis, swimming and hunting. I first met Jordan in middle school, where we became fast friends. He was always tremendously fun to be around - he had a quick smile, a wonderful laugh and an endearing manner. During high school, Jordan's health began to deteriorate, and I remember the sound of his racking, painful cough as his lungs struggled for oxygen. However, in over 20 years, I don't remember Jordan ever complaining about his condition, and he faced his terminal illness with an extraordinary level of courage and hope. Read more