The PHlip-side — Jolie Lizana

Jolie Lizana is a Louisiana woman with a strong sense of hospitality and humor. She was diagnosed 12 years ago with systemic sclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure. Jolie advocates for invisible, chronic, and rare diseases, and she is a certified legislative advocate. Her perspective as a former sonographer and EMT breaks barriers between doctors and patients. Jolie volunteers with nonprofits and hosts awareness events. Jolie hopes to bring raw truth and vulnerability to her column.

Since my pulmonary hypertension diagnosis, I’m tragically blessed

We all want to feel a sense of belonging and connection. The tricky part is learning that we can’t force a genuine connection; it has to find us. Real human connection comes with shared…