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.“Never get a chronic illness; it’s really inconvenient for other people.” I stumbled upon a meme with this quote while scrolling through social media last week, and, wow, did it hit home! Can you relate? As someone managing pulmonary hypertension (PH) and other health conditions, I found this…
As I opened my email inbox, a headline instantly caught my eye: “Massive heat wave heading for USA next week.” This got me thinking about how heat affects those of us with pulmonary hypertension (PH). Here in sunny San Diego, many in our PH community are bracing…
With warmer months on the horizon, many of us eagerly await the fresh fruits and vegetables they bring. I’m one of those people who can’t wait for the fresh produce season. It benefits the pulmonary hypertension (PH) community, too, as we’re often advised to follow a heart-healthy…
In previous columns, I’ve shared about my ongoing struggle to balance managing pulmonary hypertension (PH) with other health issues like chronic pain. Both conditions require constant attention to ensure optimal health and quality of life. One crucial aspect of living with chronic pain is describing it, which,…
Are you or your partner managing pulmonary hypertension (PH)? Does it make going out on traditional dates difficult? If so, don’t worry; I’ve got you covered. Date nights are essential to any relationship, but they can be challenging with PH and limited energy. That doesn’t mean we have…
I’m often in awe of my body’s resilience. Imagine this: The windows are wide open, a gentle breeze dances through the room, and warm Southern California sunshine filters through the blinds, casting patterns on the floor. On such days, amid the freshness of the air wafting inside, I find…
As the temperature climbs, many of us are itching to soak up some sun and make memories with our loved ones. But if you have pulmonary hypertension (PH) like me, you may often feel too drained to fully enjoy those golden opportunities. Are you torn between the desire to…
My alarm screams at 7 a.m., and in a sleepy rebellion, I hit snooze, chuck my phone aside, and dive back under my covers. I’m gearing up for the day like a warrior preparing for battle, still feeling the echoes of last night’s skirmishes. The relentless ache in my legs…
Most people focus on the physical challenges of living with a rare disease like pulmonary hypertension (PH). However, conversations about mental and emotional health don’t get enough airtime, in my opinion. If you’re reading this and thinking that mental health issues like anxiety and depression aren’t…
Nestled in my cozy swing chair on the patio, I’m soaking up the brisk wind that playfully tosses my hair. I’m listening to the sweet melody of my wind chimes, a thoughtful gift from my husband, Manny. Sunlight dances through the miniature stained-glass hot-air balloon atop the chimes. The color…
The pulmonary hypertension (PH) community is buzzing with excitement! It’s not every week that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves two new treatments for a rare disease like PH. This monumental achievement is a testament to the dedication and passion of researchers, scientists, and the rest…
Battling pulmonary hypertension (PH) is like navigating a storm that never seems to end, casting unparalleled ripples through our family life. Throw a hospitalization into the mix, and stress and worry suddenly spike to the stratosphere. As the one in the eye of this PH storm, I…
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