Columns

Accepting that life with PAH is a marathon, not a sprint

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) isn’t a one-size-fits-all disease. Each patient’s diagnostic journey and treatment protocol look different, and the condition’s complexity and severity will vary for everyone. For my husband, Tim, the PAH journey has been long, resulting in an array of medical issues, including…

Another doctor appointment, but with unexpected good news

It’s not often that pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) patients enter a visit with their physician and hear what they want to hear. Many times for my husband, Tim, visits have been a gross reminder of his condition and how limiting it can be. A typical, predictable rundown: check-in, vital…

Should you share your story of life with chronic illness?

Have you ever wondered why some people openly share their health struggles while others keep them to themselves? Before jumping to conclusions and assuming it’s all about seeking attention, let’s take a moment to reflect. Speaking up about my chronic illness journey with pulmonary hypertension (PH) has given…

A reliable healthcare team helps me manage my PH and CKD

It’s 7 p.m. on a Thursday, and my husband, Manny, and I are cooking dinner. Suddenly, my phone rings. Manny looks concerned and says, “It’s the nephrologist.” I already have a gut feeling it won’t be good news. My bloodwork has been all over the place the past few…