Pilates and a new PH treatment gave me the boost I needed

Have you ever held back from sharing good news about your health, fearing it might diminish other people’s struggles or come across as bragging? This sentiment may resonate for many of us with pulmonary hypertension (PH), but celebrating our victories is a powerful way to raise awareness about this life-altering disease. Those who know us best will support us through both our wins and our seasons of struggle.

Several months ago, my PH healthcare team and I decided to add a new treatment, Yutrepia (treprostinil), to my regimen. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the drug last May to improve exercise capacity in people with pulmonary arterial hypertension and PH associated with interstitial lung disease. Other formulations of treprostinil were already approved, but Yutrepia’s inhaled dry powder formulation is designed to be a lower-effort option.

For almost a year before starting the medication, I’d heard that clinical trial participants had noticed improvements in their physical abilities while taking Yutrepia. I told my PH specialist that I hoped this additional therapy would give me a boost as well.

Navigating insurance, specialty pharmacy logistics, and home health nurse visits is a complex process, often accompanied by a whirlwind of emotions. That was certainly the case as I started on Yutrepia. After the first home visit, I did weekly titrations (gradual increases in dosage) for about two months. These adjustments were taxing, so I reserved every Sunday as a “down” day to let my body adapt.

Recommended Reading

August 15, 2025 Columns by Jolie Lizana

Why a day of rest is a victory with pulmonary hypertension

Another win

Not long before starting the new treatment, my rheumatologist suggested I try adaptive yoga or Pilates to improve my poor bone health, as I have osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. I saw an ad for a free introductory class at a local Club Pilates and signed up, though I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to complete the short session. When I made it through, I felt empowered.

Jen Cueva sits on the reformer after a recent Pilates class. (Courtesy of Jen Cueva)

The manager was understanding when I explained that I had PH and wouldn’t be able to sign up for more classes until I was halfway through my Yutrepia titration schedule. Her thoughtful check-in call several weeks later was a kind gesture that meant so much. I scheduled a Level 1 class the following week and, to my surprise, completed the entire session.

Yes, I was short of breath and had to stop, slow down, and listen to my body, but the feeling at the end of class inspired me. My supportive husband and daughter encouraged me to keep going, although I was concerned about the cost. However, now I’m addicted to Club Pilates! It’s like my body needs it; if I go several days without a class, my chronic pain worsens. It’s already helping me physically and mentally.

Sharing all parts of my story

Thanks to Yutrepia, I’ve also started walking more and doing small tasks without my oxygen. Do I still get short of breath? Absolutely. Do I still have times when I need oxygen all day? Of course. This fluctuation can be confusing, even for me. If I can’t always understand my own journey, how can I expect others to?

Recently, my daughter and I had a coffee date. I walked in without my oxygen, and the owner, who knows my story, pointed to my nose in surprise. When I explained I’m on a new treatment, he was thrilled for me.

But many others don’t know what to say when they witness the ups and downs in my health. That’s why I share my story. Educating others is one of the most powerful things we can do. They may not fully understand what we experience with PH, but we can help them see that some days we look fine, and others, we’re struggling.

There are still days when I’m homebound and tethered to my oxygen. But with my current treatment plan, Pilates regimen, and newfound hope, I feel incredibly grateful. After 20 years with PH, I’m still here, and I hold on to the hope that one day, I’ll witness a cure for this disease. New treatments are targeting the root causes of the disease, and that progress fills me with hope. I hope my story inspires you to feel the same.

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” — Helen Keller

Note: Pulmonary Hypertension News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Pulmonary Hypertension News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to pulmonary hypertension.