November is Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month. During this month, the Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA) also gives special recognition to one form of pulmonary hypertension (PH) on Nov. 13, CTEPH Awareness Day.

Raising awareness is one of the most important things the PH community can do to help improve outcomes for individuals with PH. Although experts have made significant progress in the treatment of the disease, it still takes an average of between two to three years for an individual to be diagnosed with PH. By this time, many people have experienced damage to the right side of their heart. But with earlier diagnosis, people can receive treatment that may help improve their quality of life and give them hope for the future.

As we look ahead to Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month, we will spread the word about that hope through stories from you, in the PH community. Our 2019 Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month campaign focuses on “PHaces of Hope,” our community of individuals with PH, caregivers and health care professionals who continue to inspire and empower others.

We invite each of you to be a part of our campaign by answering a very simple question, “What’s your hope?” You can share either a short written or video story with us by filling out this form: phassociation.org/ShareYourHope/. We’d love to hear from you!

As we get closer to Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for regular updates.