30 Days of PH: Farm Life

Written by Jen Cueva |

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Day 27 of 30 Days of PH⁣ Topic: Farm life⁣ This is Jhenna’s story @jpacelli821⁣ ⁣ Where do I begin? Being diagnosed at 22 years old was NOT easy, although a PH diagnosis at any age is horrible. I was a manager at PETCO at my diagnosis, and we just bought our home. The term ”terminally ill” wasn't in my vocabulary, and I wasn't giving up that easily. ⁣ ⁣ Transitioning from a hard worker to a disabled person, who needed help doing the simplest things, was demoralizing but I dug deep and continued on. I started SubQ Remodulin from the start. Getting used to the idea of a pump 24/7 was not easy. It also has horrible side effects, that lived up to their expectations. After being on meds for 2 months, I started to notice an improvement. I was slowly being able to do more, and be more independent! ⁣ ⁣ After 3 years, we had the opportunity to move to western NY on a farm. It was the greatest decision of our lives! When we moved here, I wanted to be outside all the time and moving, something I rarely did in CT. I had the urge to get back into horses after being here a year, so I looked into therapeutic riding programs. I went to a volunteer training to see if I could even still control a horse. When I was brought to meet the horses, I instantly knew this was where I was meant to be. Volunteering made me stronger, not only physically but mentally! ⁣ ⁣ Living on a farm is not easy for me. One of the first things that we purchased was an ATV. It's is a huge lifesaver if I'm having a rough day. Some days, I can't even go outside but that's okay because I will never give up. We have been given a hard path in life, but I wouldn't change anything. This disease made me who I am today and I'm proud of that. One last thing, that therapeutic program I love, I now help run it, as the Volunteer Coordinator! Helping other disabled individuals is one of the greatest rewards EVER! I might be chronically sick but I am truly blessed! ⁣ ⁣ #30daysofPH #farmlife #subQRemodulin

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Jen Cueva avatar Jen Cueva

About the Author

Jen Cueva lives in sunny San Diego, California, with her husband and daughter. A former nurse, her life took an unexpected turn in 2005 when she was diagnosed with group 1 pulmonary hypertension (PH). That experience reshaped her purpose, transforming her journey into one of advocacy, connection, and hope. As Manager of Partnership Relations on the Bionews Advocacy team, Jen collaborates with rare disease communities to build bridges and strengthen support systems for patients and caregivers. She also serves as a forum moderator for *Pulmonary Hypertension News*, where she writes a biweekly column exploring the emotional landscape of living with PH, from resilience and gratitude to the quiet power of community. Whether she’s sharing stories that uplift or offering words that remind others they’re not alone, Jen finds meaning in helping people feel informed, empowered, and seen. When she’s not writing or advocating, you’ll likely find her at the beach, on a coffee date, or simply enjoying the laid-back San Diego sunshine. Together, we PHight stronger.

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30DaysofPH awareness


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