Neema is a 39-year-old with cystic fibrosis who was born and raised in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. She has 2 rare mutations and only manifested mild symptoms of CF as a child. Neema was not diagnosed with CF until age 29, when her pulmonary CF symptoms manifested. The diagnosis of CF was constantly overlooked throughout her life due to the common misconception that Asians don’t get CF. Neema has a Bachelor’s degree in biology from Bloomsburg University and received her Masters of Medical Science from Arcadia University. She worked as a medical laboratory scientist until she was forced into disability as her CF progressed. In November 2018, Neema received a double-lung transplant.

Neema fosters dogs and helps them find forever homes through a local dog rescue. She also volunteers for her local church. During her free time, she has been trying her hand at wreath-making and other crafts. She has a passion for the underrepresented demographic within the CF community. She currently resides in Philadelphia, Pa.