Being diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension at 19 changed the course of my life. I was an active young adult — working, going to school and always on the move, but I kept having shortness of breath and lots of fatigue.

I went from feeling invincible to suddenly realizing that my health was fragile. I had to slow down and learn how to manage my energy, my treatments and most importantly, my mindset.

At the time, I thought PH had robbed me of the best years of my life. But I realized that it shaped me into the person I am today.

When I was diagnosed, I had stage 4 PH. Now I have Stage 1 and can manage my symptoms without PH medication. I take amlodipine (Norvasc) for systemic blood pressure and have regular check-ups with my doctor at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford. My check-ups include pulmonary function tests and EKGs to make sure my PH remains stable.

Strength through movement

In 2003, a year after I was diagnosed, the Food and Drug Administration approved the first oral medication, Tracleer, for PH. I began taking that medication with other therapies and felt grateful that I responded well.

Choosing to live each day to the fullest, I focused on my health and found strength in fitness.

I’ve always been interested in fitness. Starting at 3 years old, I learned all types of dance — tap, ballet, jazz. When I was 16, I was a competitive Irish step dancer and competed locally, nationally and in County Clare, Ireland.

I entered my first fitness competition in 2004 and placed first in the International Natural Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation Bikini Competition, second in Fitness Atlantic and third in the National Physique Committee Bikini Division.

These competitions were a way for me to show myself and others that despite living with PH, I could set goals and achieve them.

Throughout my life, I’ve always proved to myself that my body is strong, capable and worth celebrating at every stage.

My blessing

In 2015, I stopped taking Tracleer because I was so stable. That same year, I became pregnant. Despite the serious risks of carrying a child with PH, I made the decision to go through with it.

Being pregnant with PH was incredibly challenging, both emotionally and physically. I was monitored closely, and there were risks every step of the way.

With 12 doctors in the delivery room at Yale New Haven Hospital, I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl named Liv in 2016. She is my miracle. Her arrival showed me just how strong the human body and spirit truly are.

I’ve raised her as a single mom and dedicated my life to creating a bright future for her. I had a few health setbacks along the way, but I have learned to listen to my body.

Platform for PH

I decided to compete for Miss Connecticut for America Strong because I believe that pageants are a powerful way to advocate and raise awareness.

For me, it wasn’t just about the crown — it was an opportunity to amplify the voices of those living with PH and show that you can still follow your dreams with a chronic illness.

My platform is about PH awareness, education and empowerment. I use every chance I get to discuss the need for early diagnosis and promote research funding. I want to inspire others that despite challenges in life, we should never give up.

I was crowned Miss Connecticut for America Strong in June. My periwinkle evening gown reflected the PH community.

In August, I’ll compete at the national level in Las Vegas alongside contestants from 49 other states. I hope to make Connecticut — and the PH community — proud.

Healing takes time

For those grappling with this condition, it’s so important to never give up on yourself. You can advocate for yourself, surround yourself with people who uplift you, listen to your body and chase your dreams — even if your life looks different than you planned.

Throughout my journey, I’ve focused on positivity. Yes, there are tough days when my body feels tired, but I’ve learned when to slow down and listen to what it needs. I’ve also been passionate about raising awareness of pulmonary hypertension and supporting others affected by it.

Every small step forward is a victory. Remember, life doesn’t always happen in a straight line.