The younger generation of PH patients continue to overcome hurdles and make strides towards improving their lives with PH. Syrena Arevalo shares her story on embracing her PH and using what motives her as fuel.
PHA: Please state your name and where you’re from?
Syrena Arevalo: "My name is Syrena Arevalo and I'm a proud Tucsonan! I graduated from the University of Arizona in 2013 with a double Bachelor's Degree in History and Mexican American Studies."
PHA: When were you diagnosed with PH?
Syrena: "I was diagnosed with Pulmonary Hypertension in August of 2012 after being rushed to the Emergency Room with Right Side Heart Failure. At the time, I was at the beginning of my senior year in college and had so many plans lined up for the year. But as we all know, we never know what obstacles will be placed in our path. This was a time in my life that I wanted to focus on my career and what I wanted to do with my life. I wasn't ready to focus on the unknown."
PHA: What are some of the challenges (if any) that you face when keeping up with your PH?
Syrena: "When I went back to school, many things changed. Not only did I have to try to focus on my studies I had to be aware of doctor’s appointments, medications, and how my breathing was doing while going from building to building. There were times when I felt like I really wanted to give up my dreams and my studies because it was just so overwhelming. I felt very depressed for a very long time. But there was a part of me that didn't allow myself to give up because I wasn't doing this just for myself but for everyone that was there during the most trying period of my young life."
PHA: I hear that you are an artist and in a music band? Please tell me more about that?
Syrena: "Art and Music has always
been a part of my life. I’ve been a musician for about 15 years and play in a
local Mariachi group. It has always been a great escape for me and allowed me
to express myself while bringing joy to those watching and listening. I have
met so many amazing people and have had to opportunity to perform in many great
venues. My greatest accomplishment occurred after I was diagnosed. November of
2012, only three months after diagnoses, I entered a vocal competition in Las
Cruces, New Mexico. I went toe to toe with so many great performers and singers
in the region who attended the Mariachi conference that year. One of them would
eventually become my boyfriend. I felt so much support at the competition that
it was overwhelming. I had brought with me periwinkle ribbons and info cards
with me and those who competed as well as the Mariachis who backed me up were
more than willing to wear them. Even though it was a tiny gesture, it meant the
world to me. In the end, I won the competition and received a scholarship that
would pay for a portion of my last semester of college."
"After my diagnoses, I took a
semester off of school to adjust to the side effects and site changes that
Remodulin had on me. During this time, I submerged myself in painting. Before
this, I would often doodle and take art classes in High school here and there,
but nothing really serious. It allowed me to put down on canvas what I was
feeling and what I wanted for my future. I became better and better at acrylic
painting and recently, I was invited to show my work at a local art show. I'm
hoping to do more shows in the future and keep doing it just for fun!"
PHA: Syrena what would you say keeps you motivated in not having your PH define you?
Syrena: "Life motivates me. Why should I let this disease define who I am? There are so many things that I still want to do. To travel, start a family, begin a career. During these last two years, I've had so many people tell me that they are praying for me and my family members, many people I didn't even know. My friends and family have been the greatest cheerleaders that I could have asked for. They have motivated me to keep up with my health even though it can be difficult sometimes. Not giving up is the least I can do for them."
PHA: Lastly, what would your advice be in how the younger generation can live with PH and still be able to live normal lives?
Syrena: "I would be lying if I told you that it's going to be easy because it's not. But we all have to remember that we have PH, but PH doesn't have us. We have such a great support group of amazing young men and women who know just what we are going through within Generation Hope as well as in other communities on the web or in your local communities. Seek them if you have questions or concerns. We are all in this fight together. Lastly, continue to do what you love to do. It can make the tough times a little easier."
