Worth the PHight - a Column by Jen Cueva

People often ask me, “How can you be so grateful while living with pulmonary hypertension (PH)?” Little do they know that gratitude is a go-to practice for me. If you’ve read my past columns, you’ll know the topic comes up frequently. As Thanksgiving approaches, many start reflecting…

As the holidays draw near, it’s also time to shine a spotlight on education, awareness, and advocacy for pulmonary hypertension (PH). PH has been a cause that’s close to my heart for nearly two decades. PH Awareness Month in November is a perfect opportunity to educate others about…

“The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all.” — Disney’s “Mulan”  Being diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a daunting experience, like stepping into uncharted territory without a map. Unlike more common conditions, there’s no simple guidebook for navigating this rare disease.

Living with a rare or chronic disease is never easy, as it creates many emotional, financial, physical, and social challenges. One difficult aspect is learning that a particular condition has progressed. How are we supposed to cope with news that our health is getting worse? I face this unfortunate…

In August, I had the amazing opportunity to attend the Pulmonary Hypertension Association’s (PHA) International PH Conference in Indianapolis. Meeting newly diagnosed patients and caregivers was a vibrant experience. For many, it was their first time attending such an event, and the energy was contagious. Even the…

Companionship and physical intimacy are universal needs that play an important physical, psychological, emotional, and social role in our lives. But living with a rare condition like pulmonary hypertension (PH) can complicate matters. Intimacy often becomes secondary when I am exhausted, in pain, or short of breath —…

Fear and anxiety are often among the first emotions we experience after being diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension (PH) or other rare and complex diseases. Recently, my therapist asked me, “Did you know that naming your fears is the first step in preventing them from controlling your mind?” Despite having…

Traveling with a rare disease such as pulmonary hypertension (PH) isn’t just about booking flights and hotels; it’s an adventure full of challenges! Once the plans are set, the actual logistics begin. Ensuring that I have all my treatments, preparing for possible emergencies, and navigating the complexities…

As we grow older, making new friends can become more challenging. Add a rare disease like pulmonary hypertension (PH) to the mix and it gets even harder. But five years ago, when I joined Bionews (the parent company of this website) and connected with the fantastic…

“How often do you experience heart palpitations or chest pains?” This question is one of the first I hear every time I have an appointment with my pulmonary hypertension (PH) specialist or other members of my healthcare team. Palpitations, chest pain and tightness, shortness of breath, and…

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension (PH), this column is for you. I’ve been there, and I know what you’re going through. It might feel like everything is a blur as you grapple with the whirlwind of emotions that come with such a devastating…

Do you ever feel like a fraud because of your rare disease? For the past two decades while managing pulmonary hypertension (PH), I’ve battled self-doubt, shame, and feelings of inadequacy. I know I’m not alone. We all face these emotions at different points in life, and through conversations with…