PHashionistas Walk the Runway for Summer PHling
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he pandemic put a halt to in-person gatherings, but it didn’t stop the pulmonary hypertension (PH) community from celebrating virtually for the Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA) Summer PHling. Hosted by PH advocate and former Broadway performer Stephen Carter-Hicks, the Aug. 1 event included an online version of the PHA Conference fashion show and recognition of many PHA volunteers. Stephen started the event by detailing his pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) journey. He recalled feeling winded on stage during a performance of “Cats.” After a cardiologist confirmed PH, Stephen connected with PHA. “When I was diagnosed, I didn’t know how PH would take away things I value, like my career,” Stephen said. “When I found PHA, it literally saved my life. I got connected with my local support group and got involved with fundraising events. I had a way to fight back. I’m so grateful they are here for all of us today.” The fashion show featured 24 PH patients who proudly flaunted or cleverly concealed oxygen tanks, pumps and mobility devices. Fashions included an array of periwinkle, zebra stripes, sparkly dresses, stylish hats and superhero costumes. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, this is the first year the fashion show didn’t take place on stage in front of a cheering crowd at the PHA International
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PATHLIGHT // ISSUE 4
PH Conference and Scientific Sessions. It also was the first year face masks made an appearance on the PHA (virtual) runway. Stephen sported a hat adorned with his mask collection. He said his favorite mask reads, “Raise my voice.” After the show, PHA recognized dozens of advocates, fundraisers and support group leaders who contribute to the organization. Some volunteers shared videos of why volunteering was important to them, including support group leader Betsie Miklos. Betsie was diagnosed with PAH in 2010. She heard about PHA shortly after her diagnosis when a nurse gave her a copy of PHA’s Survival Guide. Leading the Northern Virginia Support Group was Betsie’s first volunteer experience with PHA. “I love leading the support group and watching people change after coming to meetings,” she said. Other volunteers who submitted videos included PH cardiologist Anjali Vaidya, M.D., of Temple University and PHA Board of Trustees secretary Nicole Creech.
PHA thanks Stephen and all the volunteers who contributed to Summer PHling, as well as throughout the year. PHA looks forward to seeing everyone at PHA 2022 in Atlanta.
