Our project represents the resilience that patients with chronic diseases exhibit. We chose to burn words and images into wood, as this is a transformative process, forever changing the material, but leaving something different and beautiful behind. This is similar to how chronic illness is life changing for a patient, often leading to permanent, unanticipated transformation. Overall, we learned from our mentors the importance of adaptability and perseverance, and resilience. They have all demonstrated incredible character, using the fires within themselves to battle their illnesses, and thrive as wonderful and accomplished people despite the barriers they faced.