My name is Emma Ballweber. I have a rare genetic condition called THES and spent much of my childhood in hospitals, often told I would not survive. I beat those odds and am now the second oldest living diagnosed THES patient. While I still undergo weekly infusions and face daily challenges, I remain grateful and resilient. I am a student at Northern Michigan University pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Art with  concentrations in graphic design and photography, as well as a minor in Anthropology. Creativity, especially photography and design, became my saving grace and continues to shape my future.