Community Spotlight: Meet Jane
We are proud to introduce Jane Romps in our Community Spotlight this November. Jane is an avid Fitness Club member who is outgoing, positive and has a wonderful sense of humour. Jane lives a full and vital life, despite living with Pulmonary Hypertension. While there is a certain amount of struggle and adjustment that comes with the diagnosis of a chronic lung condition, we are always encouraged by those people who, like Jane, manage to stay positive and push on through the challenges that arise.
We managed to squeak into Jane’s busy schedule for a virtual interview to find out more about her experiences and ask for words of wisdom for others living with a chronic lung disease. Here is what Jane had to say.
When were you diagnosed with scleroderma and associated pulmonary hypertension?
I was diagnosed with scleroderma in the fall of 2009, although it was first suspected in 1998. Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, or PAH, was diagnosed in August of 2010. I was chosen to be part of the combination study which started in November of the same year. Although the diagnosis was for an incurable and progressive condition, the study was a great relief because it gave me something to fight back with.
In what ways has this condition affected your life?
The progression and need for more oxygen was my biggest hurdle. I couldn't walk very far because a tank of oxygen didn't last long enough. I became more and more comfortable sitting in my recliner. In the spring of 2020, I was accepted into the Ridge Meadows exercise program where I met some amazing people and Stacy, a Respiratory Therapist, who took no prisoners! LOL It was the best thing in the world for me. I hadn't realized how weak some of my muscles had become and the exercise program gave me a new lease on life. Covid had hit and zoom became the way to do it. Online exercise really worked for me.
Living with a chronic condition can be limiting and isolating. How have you managed to carry on doing the activities you love to do?
Putting my pride to the side and getting a scooter has enabled me to do things I hadn't been able to do in a long time, for example, going to the festival of light at VanDusen Gardens just to mention one.
Can you offer any advice or words of encouragement for others living with Pulmonary Hypertension?
Staying positive is the best advice I could give anyone. Never stop fighting.
We thank you, Jane, for sharing your story so that others will know that they are not alone in their experiences with lung disease.
November is Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month. If you or someone you know is living with Pulmonary Hypertension, or other chronic lung condition, reach out for support. You can book a free Welcome and Intake Session with a Certified Respiratory Educator in our online Poplar Clinic so that we can offer professional guidance to suit your needs. Click here to visit the Poplar Clinic.
While living with a chronic lung condition may be scary and isolating, it’s important to know that there is support available.