Kriste Lewis had always dreamed of being an NFL cheerleader. Then life and obligations got in the way and she never had the opportunity to make it happen…until now.

Lewis decided that it didn’t matter that she is a 40-year-old mother of two. The dance instructor, in true “you only live once” fashion, decided that she would try out for the New Orleans Saintsations when she turned 40 back in April.

It wasn’t easy as Lewis had some stiff competition on her hands.

In her interview with ABC News, Lewis shared that she was afraid and a bit intimidated. “There were a lot of young, beautiful girls,” said Lewis.

Lewis noted that the age range was 18 to 30, with herself proving to be somewhat of an outlier.

However, Lewis had an unusual advantage: She was in part driven by an unfortunate physical condition.

40-year-old mother with kidney disease becomes cheerleader for New Orleans Saints http://t.co/nsMpBqff9u pic.twitter.com/iBlJhWy5Sd

— The Globe and Mail (@globeandmail) July 17, 2014

Fourteen years ago, Lewis was diagnosed with polysistic kidney disease. Said Lewis of her illness, “Eventually my kidneys will shut down.”

She will be forced to take dialysis and she will also need to have a transplant.

When faced with such a serious health issue, she decided that she “didn’t want to waste a day”. Taking a chance at a life-long dream would ensure that no matter what happens, Lewis will have no regrets.

40-Year-Old Mom Becomes #Saints' Cheerleader https://t.co/kF0VNcAIRQ via @GMA & @MichaelStrahan pic.twitter.com/d4Z5qEppmn

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) July 15, 2014

Despite her initial fears, Lewis was in fact one of the most impressive tryouts.

Following three rounds, she was stunned to learn that she was one of 36 women who would be cheering for the New Orleans Saints during the 2014-2015 season.

“It was really exciting,” said Lewis. She said that the day she found out that she’d made the squad she was “beside herself” with joy.

“I cannot wait for [the first time when] we run out on that field,” Lewis said.

Thanks to Lewis, we can see for ourselves that dreams can and will come true if you’re prepared to take the necessary steps to make them happen.

40-Year-Old Mom Becomes a New Orleans Saints Cheerleader http://t.co/iwbdzA2Jsp #NFL pic.twitter.com/9FZ1L7gFVw

— Sportsnaut (@Sportsnaut) July 16, 2014

Image via YouTube