I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 514 - Eric Austin, MD, MSCI

Eric Austin, MD, MSCI discusses early detection among people who are at risk of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), particularly those who would have genetic susceptibility, or who may have congenital heart disease, or who may have connective tissue disease or other features that would make them more at risk of developing pulmonary arterial hypertension than the rest of the population.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 513 - Kristin Highland, MD

Kristin Highland, MD, from the Cleveland Clinic discusses the importance of shared decision-making and patient preferences when treating patients with pulmonary hypertension. Dr. Highland, emphasizes that the patient is the true expert on their own body and that it is crucial to understand their perspective when making treatment decisions. She highlights the need to consider factors beyond just clinical outcomes, such as side effects, costs, and the patient’s ability to manage the therapy. She underscores the evolving role of patient-reported outcomes in medical decision-making and the need for open communication between providers and patients to ensure individualized and preference-aligned care.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 512 - Jimmy Ford, MD

Jimmy Ford, MD discusses the 7th World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension and his work on the Exploring the Patient Perspective in PH Task Force.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 564 - Harrison “Hap” Farber, MD

Harrison “Hap” Farber, MD gives a recap of PHenomenal Hope 2024, emphasizing its patient-centered approach to pulmonary hypertension (PH) research. He highlights patient stories, particularly Eric Borstein’s inspiring journey of recovery and advocacy, and underscores the importance of patient-provider collaboration. Additionally, he addresses challenges in PH care, such as inclusivity in clinical trials, the role of AI in medicine, and the complexities of treating patients with substance use disorders.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 510 - Drs. Kevin and Heather Shannon

Co-Founder and Board Member, Drs. Kevin and Heather Shannon share the inspiring story of Camp del Corazon - a transformative summer camp for children with heart disease. Hear how one patient’s journey ignited a movement to create a safe, empowering space where kids can embrace their scars, form lifelong friendships, and experience the joy of camp without limits.

From the challenges of the first year to the life-changing moments that keep them going, the Shannons share how Camp del Corazon has touched countless lives and redefined what it means to live fully with a medical condition. #campdelcorazon #heartcamp #camplove

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 509 - Jen Cueva

Jen Cueva, a pulmonary hypertension patient of almost two decades, discusses her diagnosis, her advocacy work, and how she uses writing to support the pulmonary hypertension community.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 508 - Stephen Gariepy

Canadian resident, Stephen Gariepy, was diagnosed with Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH) in 2018. After initially being active in senior hockey, his condition worsened, leading to difficulty breathing and performing daily tasks. Gariepy continues to live with this rare and terminal disease, adapting to the limitations it imposes on his daily life.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 507 - Jolie Lizana

Jolie Lizana is a pulmonary hypertension (PH) survivor and advocate. Despite enduring severe heart failure and lengthy hospitalizations, Jolie credits her medical background, determination, and the love for her child for pushing her to survive and adapt. Jolie now raises awareness through her website, www.breathtakingawareness.com, and has contributed to creating EMS protocols for PH patients, showing her dedication to empowering others with hope and resources.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 506 - Allison Feenstra

Allison Feenstra shares her transformative journey from being an active, independent young woman to navigating life with pulmonary hypertension (PH). She recounts how a sudden blackout led to hospital visits and the discovery of the condition, stemming from complications related to prolonged bed rest and birth control medication. Allison candidly discusses how she underwent a significant surgery and persevered through a high-risk pregnancy, ultimately becoming a mother.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 505 - Jodi Berry

On the 28th anniversary of her PH diagnosis, Jodi Berry shares her journey of living with pulmonary hypertension. Despite facing an initial prognosis of only a few years to live, Jodi’s determination and the support of her family, friends, and healthcare professionals helped her manage her condition while maintaining an active lifestyle. Over time, advancements in treatments and her proactive participation in clinical trials provided hope and improved her quality of life.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 504 - Janette Reyes, NP

Nurse Practitioner Janette Reyes from the Pulmonary Hypertension Program at the Hospital for Sick Children shares her extensive experience caring for pediatric patients with pulmonary hypertension. Reyes discusses the unique challenges and developmental considerations involved in treating children from infancy through their teenage years, as they transition to adulthood. Reyes also touches on the emotional and social struggles these young patients face, such as bullying and anxiety, and highlights the role of the multidisciplinary team in supporting their mental well-being.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 503 - Jennifer Howard

Jennifer Howard’s inspiring story is one of resilience and hope in the face of immense challenges. Diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) in July 2019 after a long and frustrating path to answers, Jennifer faced the daunting reality of living with a chronic illness requiring continuous IV medication through a pump. Despite the overwhelming nature of her diagnosis, Jennifer discovered an inner strength she never knew she had. With a focus on living life to the fullest, she learned to navigate both the bad days and the good, embracing moments that brought her happiness and refusing to let despair take root.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 502 - Kaitlyn Salongo

Kaitlyn Salonga shares her journey of resilience and advocacy while living with pulmonary hypertension (PH). Kaitlyn recounts her fight for personal autonomy, including a successful battle to secure surgery for her reproductive health after initial denials due to weight and health concerns. Through her triumphs, she highlights the importance of advocating for oneself in the face of medical and societal challenges. Her story is a powerful testament to embracing one’s identity, breaking down stigma, and showing that life with PH can be fulfilling and bold.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 501 - Lisa Mielniczuk, MD

Dr. Lisa Mielniczuk, a cardiologist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, shares her personal journey of becoming interested in pulmonary hypertension and the challenges faced by patients in accessing care. Dr. Mielniczuk emphasizes the importance of building connections with patients and involving them in decision-making. She discusses the CRAVE study, which aims to test novel and repurposed therapies for right heart failure using a platform trial design. She highlights the importance of patient involvement in the trial design and its upcoming feasibility study.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 500- Jason Weatherald, MD

In our 500th episode, Dr. Jason Weatherald, a pulmonologist at the University of Alberta in Canada, discusses a project called CRAVE (Canadian Right Ventricular Failure Adaptive Platform) to address the lack of treatments for right heart failure in patients with pulmonary hypertension.

He explains that platform trials, which allow for multiple interventions to be tested simultaneously, are more efficient and offer a higher chance of receiving a potential therapy compared to traditional clinical trials.

Dr. Weatherald emphasizes the importance of patient involvement in research and highlights the use of phaware’s HeartWorks mobile app, which allows patients to measure their walking distance at home, as a potential endpoint in the trial.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 499 - Tanya Stinson

Tanya Stinson shares her journey of being diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension (PH) after persistent symptoms and misdiagnoses. Her struggle highlights the difficulty of finding the right diagnosis and the emotional toll of living with a rare, chronic disease. Tanya’s experience underlines the fear, mental challenges, and hope intertwined in navigating PH, inspiring others to seek support and find solace in community, showing that even in isolation, they are not alone.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 498 - Hall Skaara

Hall Skaara, a resilient PH patient and founder of the Norwegian Association for Pulmonary Hypertension, recounts his 19-year journey living with idiopathic pulmonary hypertension. He shares how he transformed the challenges of the pandemic into an innovative opportunity by helping create the Bel Air Center, a virtual global PH community space. The Bel Air Center aims to foster global connections, support, and resources for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 497 - Cynthia Neilson

Cynthia Neilson shares her journey as a mother raising her daughter Claire, who was diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) at a young age. Cynthia recounts the challenges she faced navigating the medical system, the emotional toll of dealing with an unexpected diagnosis, and the difficulties of balancing family life while ensuring her daughter received the best possible care. Cynthia emphasizes the value of connection, resilience, and advocacy for families dealing with rare diseases.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 496 - Natalie Roy

Natalie Roy is a double lung transplant survivor living in Canada. She was diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in 2005 and received her transplant in 2017. After her transplant, Natalie experienced a difficult initial recovery but felt amazing once she started healing. The first two years were cautious, but she was able to achieve many milestones she never thought possible, including getting married, playing sports, and changing careers.

I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 495 - Maureen Harper

Maureen Harper, a CTEPH patient from Canada, shares her journey with this rare condition. She initially thought she had an infection in her leg, but further tests revealed enlarged pulmonary arteries and multiple blood clots in her lungs. After being diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, she underwent a complex surgery in Toronto to attempt to remove the clots. Maureen continues to work full-time as a pharmacy technician, remains active with her family and Girl Guide unit, and maintains a positive outlook, choosing to focus on the positives rather than dwell on the negatives.