Jen is a columnist and forum moderator for Pulmonary Hypertension News Today. Jen worked in nursing before the script changed upon her diagnosis of PH in 2005. Advocating and meeting those with PH has always been an essential part of her life. Her passion is to instill hope and remind others in the PH community that they are not alone.
In her weekly column, she delves into the roller coaster of emotions that come along with PH. Having this opportunity to play a role in helping others become more informed and educated so they are more empowered in their journey is meaningful and powerful for her. Jen lives in Southern California with her husband. Together, we PHight stronger.
“Everyone knows they’re going to die, but nobody believes it. If we did, we would do things differently.” – “Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albom Maybe it is because of my work in hospice care, but talking about death and dying doesn’t bother me. Many others, however, are…
“You look so good.” “What’s wrong with you now?” “But you’re too young to be on oxygen.” “Wow, you don’t look sick at all.” “But you went out last night.” If I had to guess, I’d bet that…
The song “In My Daughter’s Eyes” by Martina McBride hits me heavy every time I hear it. I always dedicate this song to my daughter, Kayla. If only I could see myself in my daughter’s eyes. As a mom, I have always loved my daughter beyond measure, and…
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, nearly 40 million people in the United States experience an anxiety disorder in any given year. If you have pulmonary hypertension (PH) and anxiety, you already know this struggle. Anxiety affects us in more ways than we ever thought possible.
“When thunder rolls through my life, Will you be able to weather the storm? There’s so much I would give ya, baby.” While these lyrics to Pink’s “Love Song” aren’t about chronic illness, they remind me of the roller coasters we encounter in our lives. I am…
Since my recent hospitalization, I am not allowed to drive for a while. This may seem like no big deal to some, but for me, driving is my little bit of freedom; it’s my independence. Usually, I only drive for small distances near my house. Some days, this is…
“Life is tough, my darling, but so are you.” – Stephanie Bennett-Henry My husband pushed me in my wheelchair through the main hospital entrance. My pulmonary hypertension (PH) medical team wanted me to avoid chaos in the emergency room. I am grateful that he made my health…
“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 symptoms are raging throughout my body. For those who are unaware, stress can exacerbate PH and its symptoms. For…
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 need help” are the three most difficult words for me to say, maybe because I’ve never been one to ask…
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 them is something I have always enjoyed. Once my parents divorced, we moved around often. This made it difficult for me.
I attempt to take a deep breath, but tightness squeezes my chest. Pain follows, as if someone is crushing not only my lungs but my ribs, too. I woke up the Friday before Memorial Day to this overwhelming yet familiar scenario. Because of pulmonary hypertension (PH), I also battle…
Have you ever walked in the door and immediately been greeted by your fur baby? If so, you know how good it feels to have been missed — even if you’re greeted with sloppy kisses and a hyperactive bouncy dog. Mine often gets twisted up in my oxygen tubing as…
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