Dr. Anna Johnson

Dr. Anna Johnson has spent eight years of her childhood in Appomattox and has battled health issues since high school. She was selected as one of eight inspiring individuals to serve as a 2020 Get Up Ambassador for U.S. Figure Skating.

 Contributed

Cystic fibrosis isn’t keeping Anna Johnson down. As a matter of fact, the Appomattox woman was selected as one of eight inspiring individuals to serve as a 2020 Get Up Ambassador for US Figure Skating.

According to the US Figure Skating website, Johnson was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis almost five years ago. However, well before she was diagnosed, the figure skater felt the effects of cystic fibrosis throughout her childhood.

Some of the challenges she faced include battling kidney and liver failure, chronic pancreatitis and four abdominal surgeries. She spent a total of 150 days in the hospital.

“We all fall, but we all have the choice: Will the fall have the final word? Or will we get up? I got up — and if I can, cystic fibrosis and all, you can, too,” Johnson said in a US Figure Skating annuoncement.

In spite of the challenges that have come her way, Johnson continues to pursue her dreams, an inspiring message for all.

More will come in next week’s edition of the Times Virginian. Pick up a copy or subscribe at www.timesvirginian.com/subscriber_services to view the print or e-edition version.