30 Days of PH: A PH Specialist Pays Tribute to His Patients

Dr. Sahay is a PH specialist based in Houston, Texas. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Sandeep Sahay)

Day 20 of 30

This is Dr. Sandeep Sahay’s story:

My name is Dr. Sahay, and I’m the co-director of the Pulmonary Hypertension Comprehensive Care and Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension Programs, and associate professor for the pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine divisions at Houston Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas.

I was trained in pulmonary critical care medicine and have been focused and dedicated to taking care of pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients for the last 10 years.

During this PH Awareness Month, I am writing to pay tribute to all PH patients who are living with this disease and those who have lived with it in the past.

As a physician, I feel PH patients are a special group of people! Not only do I respect them for bravely fighting this monstrous disease, but they have taught me many things over the years.

Despite their daily struggles with the disease, they come smiling and hopeful every time I meet them. They are positive, full of life, and always willing to try something new. This makes my life as a treating doctor easy!

Many times, I myself have struggled with how to introduce a challenging topic into a discussion, particularly when things are not looking great. But I’m often surprised by a patient’s welcoming and hopeful attitude, regardless of the challenge in front of us.

Another aspect I admire about PH patients is their immense trust in their doctors. It’s not easy to trust someone to make crucial decisions for their lives — especially regarding experimental therapies or participation in clinical trials. I respect all of them for trusting in me and many others like me.

Lastly, all success comes from tireless effort and pursuit, and all happiness comes from daily struggle and perseverance. I think this statement defines our PH patients. It is an honor and privilege to take care of y’all. Love to all. Keep fighting!

Pulmonary Hypertension News’ 30 Days of PH campaign will publish one story per day for PH Awareness Month in November. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more stories like this, using the hashtag #30DaysofPH, or read the full series.