The most recent issue of Pathlight magazine focuses on how the PH community is stronger together. In our cover story, “Transplant Recipient Celebrates Post-PH Life,” PHA board member Diane Ramirez shares how she is thriving with new lungs and a heart. After 36 years with pulmonary hypertension, she’s getting used to post-transplant life and remains committed to serving the PH community.
“I may not have PH anymore, but I’m still here,” Ramirez says. “I still do advocacy and awareness for PH, and I have no intention of stopping.”
Sidebars explore what patients should know about transplant and lung transplant inequalities.
Read on to learn about other highlights in this issue of the Pulmonary Hypertension Association’s quarterly print magazine:
Volunteer welcomes PHA 2024 attendees
This issue’s volunteer spotlight features Michelle Reller of Huntington, Indiana. Reller, 54, is a longtime PHA support group leader, who currently heads the Kentuckiana PH Warriors. Reller also was a member of the Welcome Subcommittee for PHA 2024 International PH Conference and Scientific Sessions. Diagnosed with PH in 2009, Reller has dealt with many illnesses since she was 10, when she had a pituitary brain tumor and her pituitary gland removed.
Community workshop inspires education, hope and support
Over a year ago, Claire Champion transitioned from being an ICU nurse to a nurse practitioner at Texas Children’s Hospital. To build community, better understand her patients’ needs and network with other professionals, she attended the PHA Connects: PH Community workshop in Houston. Champion was among the 90 people who attended the April 6 workshop, where regional experts share information advancements in PH research and disease management.
How advocacy helps patients and families
Licensed clinical social worker Marina Salazar shares her story for this issue’s advocacy profile. Salazar leads the University of California-San Francisco Medical Center PHA support group. She discusses why she participated in PHA’s May advocacy campaign to mark World Pulmonary Hypertension Day.
Read these and other inspiring stories in Pathlight, an exclusive benefit of Pulmonary Hypertension Association membership. For your own Pathlight subscription, join PHA or renew your membership.
