On Friday afternoon, August 8th, Terry and I headed to Solihull for an overnight stay at the Voco Hotel. We’d chosen it for one reason; the spa facilities of a gym, pool, hot tub, steam room and sauna. After the long drive, we checked in, changed straight into our swimwear, and enjoyed relaxing in the hot tub followed by a refreshing swim.
That evening we went into town for a Nando’s dinner. Nothing fancy, but just what we fancied. An early night followed because we had a big day ahead. The real reason for the trip was the Together25 event hosted by our PH charity, PHA UK. By travelling the night before, I could avoid rushing, save my energy, and be fully present for what I knew would be a busy and emotional day.
After a delicious buffet breakfast, we set off for the Edgbaston Park Hotel & Conference Centre in Birmingham. We arrived in good time, picked up our name badges, and immediately spotted some familiar PH faces. There were lots of hugs and catch-ups everywhere. We could also hear live music being performed by fellow PH patient and hugely talented Jen, who has most beautiful voice.
The day began with a warm welcome from PHA UK Chairman, Iain. The event wasn’t just a conference, it was a celebration of 25 incredible years of the PHA UK, bringing together patients, medics, and friends in the PH community.
The first patient panel featured five inspiring PH patients and carers sharing their journeys. Their stories were full of honesty, tears, laughter, and moments of deep understanding. For those newly diagnosed, it was a reminder that life with PH can still be fulfilling, even if it takes a different path than planned.
After a short break, Professor Andy Swift took the stage to talk about AI in PH care. It was an exciting look into the future of how technology could transform diagnosis and treatment. An expert panel Q&A followed, featuring five wonderful PH healthcare professionals. Carl and Stuart represented the Royal Brompton. Carl, in particular, has been part of my journey from the day I was diagnosed 17 years ago and has always been there through the highs and lows.
Lunch was served and we enjoyed eating it outdoors in the sunshine, giving us the perfect chance to chat with friends old and new. Afterwards it was our turn...!
Before our own panel slot, the raffle was drawn and Terry and I won twice! First a Soap & Glory gift set, then the Kraken Black Spiced Rum set. We couldn’t stop laughing as we had just been saying we never win anything.
Then it was our time on stage. Joined by our good friends Lorna and her daughter Emily, we shared our lived experiences of PH. Yes, it was nerve-wracking at first, but the lovely Mary from PHA UK kept us at ease. We spoke openly about challenges, but also about joy, showing that good quality of life is still possible. However it was Emily, who at just 14, stole the show with her poise and eloquence. She was amazing!
Then it was our time on stage. Joined by our good friends Lorna and her daughter Emily, we shared our lived experiences of PH. Yes, it was nerve-wracking at first, but the lovely Mary from PHA UK kept us at ease. We spoke openly about challenges, but also about joy, showing that good quality of life is still possible. However it was Emily, who at just 14, stole the show with her poise and eloquence. She was amazing!
Dr Gregg Rawlings gave a fascinating talk on mental and emotional wellbeing in PH, highlighting how psychological support like CBT can help patients manage the emotional side of the condition. The PHA UK have free resources for those in need of extra support - found here.
Another expert panel closed the afternoon, followed by heartfelt thanks from Iain. The day was perfectly organised, packed with inspiring talks, and chances to socialise and connect with others. We left feeling both moved and uplifted.
We rounded off the evening with dinner at Zizzi’s alongside Lorna, Jeremy, and Emily, then headed back to the hotel for more chats with fellow PH’ers. Tired but happy, we reflected on a truly special day.
The journey home on Sunday was thankfully much smoother than the trip up. Looking back, the weekend was the perfect mix of relaxation, friendship, and inspiration.
A huge thank you to the PHA UK for putting on such a brilliant event. Here’s to the next one!
Another expert panel closed the afternoon, followed by heartfelt thanks from Iain. The day was perfectly organised, packed with inspiring talks, and chances to socialise and connect with others. We left feeling both moved and uplifted.
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| Healthcare Professionals in PH |
We rounded off the evening with dinner at Zizzi’s alongside Lorna, Jeremy, and Emily, then headed back to the hotel for more chats with fellow PH’ers. Tired but happy, we reflected on a truly special day.
The journey home on Sunday was thankfully much smoother than the trip up. Looking back, the weekend was the perfect mix of relaxation, friendship, and inspiration.
A huge thank you to the PHA UK for putting on such a brilliant event. Here’s to the next one!
Thanks for reading!