BreeAnna, U.S. Air National Guard Courageous Kids Contest Winner
April 21, 2026
BreeAnna, Air National Guard Courageous Kids Contest Winner
High School Senior Battles Multiple Diagnoses While Father Is Deployed
For many military kids, dealing with a parent’s deployment means care packages and video calls. For 18-year-old BreeAnna, it also meant dealing with complex medical issues. BreeAnna was recently diagnosed with juvenile fibromyalgia and Amplified Muscular Skeletal Pain, a combination of symptoms that made it difficult for her to get out of bed.
While her father was deployed with the Idaho Air National Guard, BreeAnna and her mother, Collette, were fully immersed in her treatment.
“Between doctor appointments, we filled our day with memories. We took pictures, had blood draws, laughed, cried, picked up medications, ate at new restaurants, were fitted for new prosthetics, and we enjoyed the time together,” said Collette, who nominated BreeAnna for the Courageous Kids Contest.
“She was so sweet and giving at a time that was hard for her, and I am amazed at her kindness and service.” - Collette, BreeAnna's Mother and Nominator
Despite her chronic pain and fatigue, BreeAnna pressed forward at school. Unable to participate in some activities, including sports, she pivoted to experiences she was able to enjoy, including an extracurricular called Business Professionals of America.
BreeAnna qualified to attend Nationals after competing at the state level and spent weeks of physical therapy to prepare for the cross-country trip. She also raised nearly $2,000 to attend Nationals, including applying for an Our Military Kids activity award.
“[Being a military kid] is a hard privilege. My father gives his time to help the country, and it requires sacrifices such as his time with us.” - BreeAnna
Because her medical issues dictate many of her activities, BreeAnna finds “joy in simpler things.” She enjoys the meditative nature of doing her nails — practicing patience and focus in the midst of difficulties. She also spends time with friends.
“I am a social butterfly through and through,” she said. “I enjoy connecting with people and better understanding and helping them.”
She will attend Brigham Young University-Idaho, after which she plans to serve as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “I also hope to become a married woman and caring mother to my future spouse and children,” BreeAnna said.
During their father's Air National Guard deployment, BreeAnna and her siblings Emary, Ethan, and Ashlyn each received Our Military Kids activity awards to fund guitar lessons and BreeAnna's Business Professionals of America trip. Learn more about the Our Military Kids activity award program at: https://www.ourmilitarykids.org
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