At 12 years old, FiFi is one mighty big force of JOY packed in a tiny little body. She has multiple health conditions that began at the age of seven including lupus, class three lupus nephritis, chronic kidney disease, juvenile arthritis, POTS/dysautonomia, and ADHD.

FiFi commented, “When I was diagnosed, I was really into gymnastics and cheerleading. Those were things I loved, but I was told I couldn’t do them anymore. But I discovered other things I love, like dance and piano. I found real friends as well, which is great.” A cause for recent celebration was making the cheer team. She is the flyer and proud of it!

She really believes in helping others. Since she was five years old, she has been raising funds and gathering gifts for animal shelters for her birthday. Over the years, she has raised enough money for the adoption fees for 12 animals. One very fun project she does is painting rocks to leave for others. She has painted about 400 rocks to date, just to put a smile on people’s faces.

FiFi wrapped up our discussion by saying, “There are always people to talk to and I want people to know you don’t need to feel like you are by yourself. There is always going to be somebody there for you, but you have to talk about it.”

Do you know an amazing kid with chronic illness who gives back to the community? Nominate them at ppf@purpleplayasfoundation.com