Junaid N. (Ottawa, ON)

In 2022, in Pakistan, an echocardiogram followed by a right heart catheterization showed elevated heart pressures, confirming PH. This complicated matters for him, as he had already been diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Lupus Nephritis in 2016, in addition to having hypothyroidism since he was 4 years old. Furthermore, he was told by his pulmonologist that the treatments then available in Pakistan for PAH were very limited, so he decided to make the best use of his time and chose to pursue his MBA in Ottawa, Canada, where he could also access some of the finest medical treatment and facilities on the planet

Junaid was able to get quick access to medical facilities, continue his treatment, and lower his heart pressure from 7.6 to 5.6 Wood units. He graduated in December 2024 and subsequently learned to swim and went on hikes and kayaking trips in the summers all by himself. He also tied the knot in February 2026. He works as a part-time Teaching Assistant at Carleton University.

To show his appreciation for the community, he became a PHA volunteer and now helps newly diagnosed members.