Columns

July 6, 2020July 2, 2020

It’s Not ‘Back to Normal’ for Those With Chronic Illnesses

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

The world is re-opening. People are returning to bars, restaurants, and shops. They’re reuniting with loved ones and friends. I’m terrified. I’ve been locked down for over three months, ... Read more

July 6, 2020July 1, 2020

Stress Is Piling On, Which Exacerbates PH Symptoms

Columns, Worth the PHight - a Column by Jen Cueva

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” – Matthew 6:34 I’m noticing that my pulmonary hypertension ... Read more

July 6, 2020July 2, 2020

My Son Is Taking Over His Own Care Management

Columns, Life As A Caregiver - a Column By Colleen Steele

In last week’s column, I discussed my son Cullen’s transition from pediatric to adult care at a medical center not associated with his previous team. My focus has been ... Read more

June 29, 2020June 25, 2020

I’m Not ‘Lazy,’ I’m Sick

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

One of the hardest parts of having chronic health problems is the guilt. Many people struggling with complex conditions are branded “lazy.” And sometimes we even brand ourselves. Before ... Read more

June 29, 2020June 26, 2020

The Three Words That I Find Most Difficult to Say

Columns, Worth the PHight - a Column by Jen Cueva

If I asked you which three words you find most difficult, how would you answer? Some may say, “I love you.“ Others may say, “there’s no cure.” But “I ... Read more

June 29, 2020June 25, 2020

How to Survive a Medical Move

Columns, Life As A Caregiver - a Column By Colleen Steele

It was a bittersweet experience when my parents sold my childhood home. I grew up and left for college, and my parents were moving into the home of their ... Read more

June 26, 2020June 24, 2020

Learning to Love Myself Is Challenging With Chronic Illness

Columns, Recharged and Rewired - a Column by Brittany Foster

Whenever I am feeling defeated by my body or mind, I throw on some Whitney Houston classics. One of my favorites is the song “Greatest Love of All.” The ... Read more

June 22, 2020June 18, 2020

It’s Important to Be Your Own Health Advocate

Chronically Uncool – a Column by Ellie Bird, Columns

Before I got sick I thought doctors knew everything. I thought doctors would know exactly what to do if I was ever unwell, and that I could just mindlessly ... Read more

June 22, 2020June 19, 2020

How to Become Obsessed with Survival

Columns, Life As A Caregiver - a Column By Colleen Steele

Among the many challenges of living with a life-threatening condition are the daily demands it places on both the patient and the caregivers. A life-threatening illness isn’t something one ... Read more

June 22, 2020June 19, 2020

Celebrating My First Anniversary of Writing ‘Worth the PHight’

Columns, Worth the PHight - a Column by Jen Cueva

As a child, I enjoyed writing. My Moma always reminds me of the “I’m sorry” letters I wrote when I did something wrong. Writing cards and notes and mailing ... Read more