30 Days Of PH: My Girlfriend’s Son Has PH

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by Colleen Steele |

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Day 24 of 30 Days of PH⁣
Topic: My Girlfriend’s Son Has PH

This is Galen’s Story

The world of PH is still relatively new to me in comparison to my age. I’m 42 now, and I’ve been actively involved in the lives of a PH family for the past three years.

My girlfriend Regina’s 13-year-old son Braxton was diagnosed with PH at an early age and was on a trifecta of oral treatment when I met him. This year he transitioned to a sub-q treatment, and needless to say, it has changed all of our lives.

I know that I’m still an outsider. I haven’t seen all of the hardships involved but being able to be a part of this family has been the greatest blessing of my life. Being a part of all the daily struggles that come with PH. Seeing life from a whole new perspective. Realizing that in this life even a seemingly small victory or setback can have such a huge impact. Learning the true importance of perseverance.

The simple things have so much more meaning. Things as simple as watching Braxton being able to compete in a fishing tournament or go hunting have so much gravity to us. We don’t take these things for granted. We rejoice in them. All these things, and still trying to maintain a balance between PH and living a normal and simple life.

It can be difficult at times because we feel like others, even our family members, don’t really understand. Often, I have to remind myself that I was once in that very same boat. Despite all of the complexities that come with PH there is an abundance of love and happiness in our home.

Like so many, there was a time when I didn’t really get it, but I do now…and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

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