PHA: 'Primary Source of PH Information'

Ifeel very blessed to have the perspectives of caregiver and medical professional in the PH community because I know how much I can push to advocate for my daughter. There are so many challenges when it comes to communicating for your health; I believe that medically challenged families become experts at pushing to get the care that they need.

Esther’s story is more than a miracle; it is navigation of a course. I let people know there is a lot they can do with the information they receive. It all comes down to decision-making and exploring available resources.

Despite my medical background, I was uninformed about pulmonary hypertension. When I looked online to find out more information, I discovered the Pulmonary Hypertension Association.

I relied heavily on PHA as my primary source of information while my family and I navigated the first three months of Esther’s intensive care. Through its resources, PHA gave me a “crash course” on PH that helped me learn more about Esther’s diagnosis. I also found the PHA Facebook support groups, which helped me find support for myself and my family. I support PHA because of its resources and quality programs dedicated to advancing PH education, research and clinical care. I’ve met some wonderful PHA leaders who have given me a voice.

Michelle Liu’s daughter Esther was 2 when she had a heart attack and was diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Liu, MD, MPH, FAAOA, a physician and Pulmonary Hypertension Association board member, shared her family’s PH journey at PHA 2022 International PH Conference and Scientific Session Journeys Luncheon.