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My First Time at Conference was Wonderful

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I had a wonderful time attending conference for the first time and as a newly diagnosed patient. The hotel was so accommodating to our needs; plenty of bathrooms for patients on Lasix, chairs throughout entire hotel for us to rest, and plenty of electrical sockets for oxygen concentrators. I felt so loved because everyone was willing to help one another. It was exciting to meet my online friends in person. For the entire weekend it felt as though having PH was the “norm." When I returned home it hit me that I was sick because I was no longer among those who have the same illness.

I enjoyed going to the support groups and sessions about Intravenous Medication, Fundraising, Newly Diagnosed, Young Adults with PH, and Stem Cell Research and PAH. There were so many sessions that I did not want to miss any so I often swapped information with others. The Conference Handbook also came in handy and was a great idea. I do wish there was additional time where we could meet PHriends. Maybe having the Meet and Greet for an entire day would be great. The Generation Hope After Dark event was awesome. We shared ideas about dating and attending school with PH while having a fabulous time eating and drinking (soda and water). Lol!

Thanks to Rynna the Fashion Show was so much fun, and I enjoyed being part of it. It is not easy trying to hide my CADD Legacy pump and Hickman Catheter from people who do not understand PH. I do not want random people staring so I hide my pump in my bra or in a purse. I often do not wear clothing that will show my catheter. Having PH is life changing, and I am so happy I was able to be around others with the same illness. I am looking forward to attend “PHA on the Road” this September in Baltimore, Maryland.

After attending the 2010 PH Conference, I have decided that I will do more to spread awareness and do fundraising activities. PH is life changing and it's up to us to spread the word.

Kimberlee Ford
PH Patient, Facebook Community Member, Local PHA Office Volunteer


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