For our younger generation, living with Pulmonary Hypertension can present many challenges. Learning how to meet those challenges can be a drawn-out process. Faced with the normality of being young and aspiring, the younger PH population must also come to terms with being able to cope and manage their condition as well. We spoke with Shannon O’Donnell, an ambitious teen, as she shares her experience with fighting PH and living life to the fullest.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------PHA: Could you please introduce yourself and briefly explain your connection with PH to our readers?
Shannon O' Donnell: "Hi everyone my name is Shannon O’Donnell and I’m a pulmonary hypertension patient. I’m nineteen and I’ve had PH for thirteen years. I’m on the crono five pump for remodulin and also many oral medications and oxygen at night. I’m currently a karate teacher for mentally challenged children and will be competing in my first tournament in two weeks!"
PHA: From my understanding, you are still in college? What school do you attend and what is your focus?
Shannon: "I attend Bunker Hill Community College in Charlestown, Mass. My major is pediatric radiology and I’m currently in the prerequisite stage of the program."
PHA: Being in college, what are some of the challenges (if any) that you face when keeping up with your PH?
Shannon: "Well I’ve had some issues with some of my professors who don’t always understand why I miss class or leave early, even if I tell them ahead of time."
PHA: Being away from home, is there still a network of support between your family and friends?
Shannon: "My school doesn’t have dorms so I still have the luxury of living at home with my family who are constantly caring for me. Most of my friends have gone off to further schools; however I still received their love and support as well."
PHA: Shannon, what would you say keeps you motivated in not having your PH define you?
Shannon: "Darren Criss (Blaine from glee) has this saying “There is nothing more bad-ass than being yourself.” And there’s also a lyric from Demi Lovato’s song Fire Starter, “I'm a bad-ass jumping off the moving train I'm a Jane Bond, putting all them guys to shame I'm a wild card, and I'm gonna steal your game you better watch out.” I do what I want and listen to what my body tells me. I just try to be myself no matter what."
PHA: And lastly- what would your advice be in how the younger generation can live with PH and still be able to live normal lives?
Shannon: "Listen to your body and live how you want while still respecting your parents. And it’s okay to be the smartest person in science class. Go to junior and senior prom don’t let PH run your live because you have one life to live so let it go and have fun."
