At 18, Kendrick has already faced challenges that most adults never imagine. Diagnosed with lupus at age 8, he spent three difficult months in the ICU and nearly eight months in the hospital. That experience became a second home and forged his resilience and perseverance. By 15, Kendrick had become the author of Having LUPUS Doesn’t Mean GAME OVER, a book that shares insights and encouragement with others on the lupus journey. At 17, he spoke at the Lupus Foundation of America Lone Star Chapter’s camp for kids and teens, inspiring young people with his story. Kendrick is also an athlete and lifeguard. Swimming has been both therapy and discipline, helping him move forward in his health journey. In May 2025, he graduated high school with straight A’s in his senior year, proof of his focus and determination. His next goal is a bachelor’s degree in economics, followed by law school. Kendrick’s story is about more than survival. It is about ambition, impact, and the relentless pursuit of possibility.