30 Days of PH: Living Independently

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by Jen Cueva |

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Day 21 of 30 Days of PH⁣ Topic: Living Independently ⁣ This is Kellie’s story @ms_magiwine ⁣ ⁣ You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have. Those words never rang more true, until the day I was diagnosed with Idiopathic Primary Arterial Hypertension. I was admitted to the hospital and started on IV therapy because my numbers were flying high. It was the best option to hopefully help with my symptoms and improve or keep my PH stable. That moment, the life that I knew, was changed forever. ⁣ ⁣ Because I am on IV medications for PH, living alone can be challenging. Because of not having family close by or a significant other to help, I was left to figure out how to manage everyday life on my own. What I quickly learned, was to stay organized and plan way ahead. Keep in mind that nothing will ever go perfect, and that's okay. You learn to have your phone close by at all times. I had to learn how to rest when your body tells you, not when your mind says it. It's okay if you are tired, you have no help, so, have a seat. When there's a will, there's a way. ⁣ ⁣ Living with PH is tough for anyone. Living independently with PH comes with its own complications. Learning to do things at a snail's pace has been the hardest part. However, having to get up everyday, to take care of everyday things for myself. It gives me the drive. Even more, it shows the world that PH doesn't define me. But, in fact, just maybe I define PH.⁣ ⁣ ⁣ #30daysofPH #Independentliving #pumplife #PeriwinkleForPH2019

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About the Author

Jen Cueva avatar
Jen Cueva Jen is a columnist and forum moderator for PH News Today. Jen worked in nursing before the script changed upon her diagnosis of PH in 2005. Advocating and meeting those with PH has always been an essential part of her life. Her passion is to instill hope and remind others in the PH community that they are not alone. In her weekly column, she delves into the roller coaster of emotions that come along with PH. Jen lives on the Texas Gulf Coast with her husband and mini-schnauzer. Together we PHight stronger.

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30DaysofPH, awareness, IV Remodulin
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