Columns

A few years ago, I shared an image on social media of my growing library. I love thrifting books just as much as I love reading them. It’s been a joy to invest in my collection of secondhand books in adulthood. A friend and fellow chronic illness warrior commented…

Do you know about pulmonary rehabilitation? Maybe you’ve participated in a few sessions or you have a loved one who did. I didn’t know about these programs until after I was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension (PH). I also didn’t fully appreciate the hurdles that prevent some people…

If you’ve been following my journey, you’re probably aware that I navigate pulmonary hypertension (PH) alongside a mix of other intricate coexisting conditions. The physical and mental strain my body endures leads me through a daily battle with symptoms and the toll of finding and maintaining…

Most of my memories with pulmonary hypertension (PH) can be summarized with three words: shortness of breath. I was always trying to catch my breath anywhere I went. But over time, as predicted, the shortness of breath began to cause other issues. As my pulmonary pressures worsened, my…

Over the past 19 years, amid the challenges of managing a rare disease called pulmonary hypertension (PH), I’ve had countless encounters with doctors. As I’ve navigated the intricate landscape of chronic kidney disease, anemia, and various other health conditions, keeping track of all the specialists I consult…

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) has its challenges, but they’re not always visible to others. Some days, for example, it feels like a plastic bag is suffocating me. That’s how I described my breathing difficulties when my durable medical equipment company denied me oxygen because it was a “luxury.” Many…

Former “Grey’s Anatomy” star Katherine Heigl cracked a joke at the Emmy Awards ceremony that I can’t get out of my head, and not because it was particularly funny. Commenting on the show’s legacy during a reunion bit with former and current cast members, Heigl said, “Yes, there have…

When I was growing up, I noticed that my parents were very specific when identifying my illness. I didn’t just have pulmonary hypertension, I had pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). More specifically, I had idiopathic PAH, meaning that the cause was unknown. For a long time, these…

Inadequate. Weak. Useless. When we’re battling chronic illnesses like pulmonary hypertension (PH) and are forced to endure chronic pain, emotions like these can easily overwhelm us. It’s no wonder we feel useless or “less than” in such circumstances. We often define ourselves by what we do, and when…

A close friend and I recently discussed how our rare diseases affect our spouses. I have pulmonary hypertension (PH) and she has multiple sclerosis. Our partners provide unwavering love and support as we manage our chronic conditions. Afterward, I reflected on the conversation and on my incredible husband and…

While most people who home in on their health at the start of a new year think about gyms, diets, and a “Dry January,” I’m focused on my oxygen levels, doctor appointments, and exams. These are needed to manage my pulmonary hypertension (PH), something I’ll be committed…

Recently, the mother of a young transplant recipient reached out to me about my experience with hair loss. She said it was a side effect of the transplant medications and had caught them by surprise. I was quick to pass along my hair journey, which was, and continues…