Worth the PHight - a Column by Jen Cueva

workplace, fear, interview, less is more, unique, covid-19

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.

Reminding Myself That I Am So Much More Than PH

Hey, y’all, I’m Jen. I love people. I enjoy talking, writing, and cooking. Coffee shops and food are my jam. I admire my family and friends. Listening to live music or being near the water helps keep me balanced. But pulmonary hypertension (PH) will creep up when least expected, attempting…

Why Setting Boundaries Is Essential When Dealing With PH

Do you struggle to create boundaries to protect your health? Do others say that you are using your chronic illness as an excuse? If so, you are not alone. Learning to say no and creating boundaries have always been a struggle for me. But after being diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension…

Celebrating 2 Years of This Column and Working From Home

Let’s celebrate! Come on, y’all, join me. Now, are you curious what we’re celebrating? This week, I celebrate two years of writing my column, “Worth the PHight.” I’ve mentioned before that I started this column to offer hope to the pulmonary hypertension (PH) community. This is still true. And…

Finding Time for Dates With Your Partner

As humans, forming quality relationships is essential to our well-being. If you are like me, the pandemic has tossed a wrench in our relationships, including the romantic ones. Do you remember your last date? If not, don’t worry. Most of us have been stagnant in our…

When PTSD Creeps in After a Traumatic Hospitalization

Living with pulmonary hypertension (PH) is no easy feat. Unfortunately, frequent hospitalizations are a part of life. No one wants to be hospitalized, especially if previous visits were traumatic.  I dreaded making the call to my PH team after days of uncontrollable nausea, vomiting,…

Dealing With Grief During a Pandemic: A Tribute to My Cowboy

Grief and loss have been common throughout this pandemic. According to a research article published last July in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, approximately nine close family members are bereaved every time a person dies from COVID-19. Although I…


A Conversation With Rare Disease Advocates