A portrait of Gabe | Payson, Utah

Gabe Jackumsen, 10, has Cystic Fibrosis, and has been through a lot more in his few years than most people have in their entire lives. Luckily for him (and despite his illness), Gabe has an outstanding support network.  When I was sent to the Jackumsen home to make a picture of the fine young man himself, I was warmly welcomed.  For the duration of the time I spent in Payson, Utah, I was reminded yet again of the importance of family and the fragility of life.

Here's to Gabe, tough little guy that he is.

Gabe Jackumsen, 10, poses for a portrait while hooked up to his Respirtech high frequency chest compression device Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012, at his home in Payson, Utah. Two years ago, Gabe's parents, Travis and Karen Jackumsen, took him to the doctor after his complaints of chest problems. He was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis.  Twice a day for thirty minutes each, Gabe must allow the vest to shake his chest, keeping his lungs and airway clear. While his morning session with the machine safely occurs before his fourth grade classes, the avid Cub Scout and basketball player sometimes finds himself having to come home for his evening session between recreational activities.  "The most annoying part about it is I can't move around a whole lot while it's on," Gabe said.  "Except when he's playing Wii," said his father, Travis, with a laugh.