Jen Cueva,  —

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.

Articles by Jen Cueva

Allowing My Faith to Help Me Manage PH

Last week, one of my morning devotionals left me in deep thought for most of the day. It was about apologizing for everything that makes you the one-of-a-kind person you are. With both hands held high, I admit I’m guilty. Are you guilty of this, too? I’m sorry I missed…

We Followed Our Dreams and Moved to California

“Don’t be afraid to give up the good to go for the great.” — John D. Rockefeller Recently, my husband, Manny, and I made a big life decision by selling our home in Texas and relocating to San Diego. This was always our dream, but we never thought it…

Self-advocacy Is an Important Part of Patient Treatment

Living with pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a constant challenge. If I’m not educating myself, I’m educating my family and friends, and at times, even my medical team. Yes, the members of my medical team are experts in medicine, but I am the expert of my own body. Recently, I…

Learning to Love My Body Despite the Effects of PH

Some days, as I catch a glimpse of the woman in the mirror, I find the reflection unrecognizable. The dark, weary circles around the eyes, the protruding cheek and collarbones, the pale, bluish skin — that’s me. This can leave me startled and discontented, with tears running down my face.

8 Months Later, My Post-COVID-19 Symptoms Linger

What happens when one still suffers from COVID-19-related symptoms long after infection? Unfortunately, I am one of those people. My medical team is comprised of multiple specialists, along with my primary care doctor. Most of this team is clueless about the long-term effects of the virus, cringing as we…

Reminding Myself That I Am So Much More Than PH

Hey, y’all, I’m Jen. I love people. I enjoy talking, writing, and cooking. Coffee shops and food are my jam. I admire my family and friends. Listening to live music or being near the water helps keep me balanced. But pulmonary hypertension (PH) will creep up when least expected, attempting…

Why Setting Boundaries Is Essential When Dealing With PH

Do you struggle to create boundaries to protect your health? Do others say that you are using your chronic illness as an excuse? If so, you are not alone. Learning to say no and creating boundaries have always been a struggle for me. But after being diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension…

Celebrating 2 Years of This Column and Working From Home

Let’s celebrate! Come on, y’all, join me. Now, are you curious what we’re celebrating? This week, I celebrate two years of writing my column, “Worth the PHight.” I’ve mentioned before that I started this column to offer hope to the pulmonary hypertension (PH) community. This is still true. And…

Finding Time for Dates With Your Partner

As humans, forming quality relationships is essential to our well-being. If you are like me, the pandemic has tossed a wrench in our relationships, including the romantic ones. Do you remember your last date? If not, don’t worry. Most of us have been stagnant in our…