On May 5, the Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA) joined pulmonary hypertension (PH) organizations around the world in recognizing World PH Day. The goal of World PH Day is to put a spotlight on how PH affects individuals around the globe. This month, PHA’s The Right Heart blog will highlight stories by individuals from around the world who have been affected by PH. Risk factors for PH are broad and can vary by geographic location, climate and many other circumstances. Globally, individuals with PH deal with challenges as unique as the places in which they reside. Despite these unique challenges, many have found equally unique ways to cope and live their best life with PH.
Although donations and research have led to an increase in U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)- approved treatments available for the disease, a cure remains elusive. By highlighting the global impact of PH, PHA brings awareness to the necessity for better treatments and knowledge of the signs and symptoms. Be sure to visit WorldPHDay.org for all the tools you need to help spread awareness throughout the month including facts about PH, upcoming events, social media tools and much more.
Our first international story comes from a familiar face who hails from Auckland, New Zealand, Rebekah Calverley. You may remember Rebekah from PHA’s 2018 International Conference and Scientific Sessions, where she wowed the crowd with her amazing singing vocals and breath control. Also, as a previous contributor to the blog, Rebekah returns to share how beginning a health and fitness routine gave her purpose and helped her take control of her PH and boost her confidence.
Follow PHA on Facebook (facebook.com/PulmonaryHypertensionAssociation), Twitter (@PHAssociation), Instagram (@PHAssociation), and LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/pulmonary-hypertension-association/) to catch the most up-to-date information on World PH Day. Use #WorldPHDay2019 and #PHAssociation on social media to join the conversation.
