At just 29 years old, Britney Quiram has turned her struggles into a powerful message of resilience and hope. Diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) at the tender age of 2, Britney’s life has been shaped by her condition from the very beginning. Despite being told about all the limitations she would face, Britney has defied expectations and serves as an inspiring advocate for others living with NF.

Early Diagnosis and Challenges

Britney’s first vivid memory related to her health occurred when she was only 5 years old and had her first MRI. Following her diagnosis, she became a frequent visitor to various doctors and medical students eager to learn about the girl with NF1. “I remember being told I wouldn't be able to play sports,” Britney shared. However, the spirit of defiance took hold during a car ride home when she expressed her desire to play soccer. Her parents agreed, and to everyone’s surprise, she excelled at it, later participating in cheerleading, dance, and baseball.

In school, despite being placed in classes for students with learning difficulties due to the anticipated challenges, Britney proved the naysayers wrong. While she did experience some struggles, particularly with math, these obstacles only motivated her to work harder. 

At age 13, Britney faced her biggest challenge yet: a diagnosis of five brain tumors, with one located on her brain stem. This situation caused serious complications and ultimately resulted in her immune system shutting down. As a result, she was home-schooled throughout high school. Although she missed out on the traditional high school experience, Britney graduated with her head held high.

A Path to Independence

Upon graduating, Britney made a courageous decision: she enrolled in community college without any accommodations. “I struggled a little bit, but I ultimately passed my classes,” she recalls. Emerging from her first semester with a remarkable 3.7 GPA was a pivotal moment for Britney. “That was my first step in taking back my life,” she said. 

Although pain remains part of her daily life, Britney refuses to let it define her. With NF affecting 1 in 2,500 births, she embraces her uniqueness and takes pride in her ability to raise awareness about the condition.

Advocating through Pageantry

Five years ago, Britney ventured into the world of pageantry, seizing the opportunity to use her platform to advocate for Neurofibromatosis. “What better platform than Neurofibromatosis?” she states passionately. Through pageants, she has reached countless individuals with her story, igniting conversations and encouraging others to engage with the community.

“Pageants have given me an amazing way to raise awareness,” she explains. “The more I share, the more people ask and learn, and that's how I get conversations going and get people to listen. ”

A Message of Empowerment

Through her speaking engagements, Britney aims to empower others living with NF. “I want to let them know that even if you may have to be innovative about how you do things, don’t let people put you in a box,” she says. “Bust out of the box, break it down, and throw it away.” 

Britney’s advice for individuals newly diagnosed with NF1 is to take their time to process their diagnosis, stay proactive, and seek out a support system. “Do your own research and advocate for yourself. Find your support system and keep on going every day,” she encourages.

Celebrating Triumphs

Among her proudest achievements, Britney highlights her successful completion of college without accommodations and her accomplishments in the pageant world, including fundraising efforts and learning to be her own advocate. 

Envisioning a Brighter Future

Britney envisions a future where awareness of NF1 is widespread and understood. “I want to help others navigate their diagnosis and let them know they are never alone in their fight,” she asserts. By continuing to share her story and speak out, she aims to foster a world where the complexities of NF don’t need lengthy explanations.

A Call for Awareness

Though Neurofibromatosis may not be commonly known, Britney reminds us that it is more prevalent than most people think. “Every case is different,” she emphasizes, “and while every case is different, some of us look different, we are all incredible fighters with voices that will shout from every rooftop until we find a cure.”

Through her journey, Britney Quiram exemplifies resilience, determination, and hope. Her inspiring story serves as a reminder that with courage and advocacy, individuals can overcome challenges and make a profound impact on the world around them.

 

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