What I’d Tell My Newly Diagnosed CTEPH Self
- PHA Canada
- 17 hours ago
- 1 min read
What would you say to yourself at the moment everything changed?
In this honest and inspiring talk, Derek Henderson of Toronto reflects on what he would tell his newly diagnosed self after learning he had CTEPH in 2012.
From the shock of no longer being able to bike to undergoing PEA (PTE) surgery and adapting to lifelong blood thinners, Derek shares a journey shaped by resilience, humor, and hard-earned perspective. Guided by his motto — “If you’re going to be a duck, learn how to quack” — he speaks about navigating overwhelming medical information, learning to advocate for himself, practicing patience in recovery, handling misunderstanding, and celebrating small victories.
His message is simple but powerful: the early days are overwhelming, but you will adapt. You will grow. And you are stronger than you think.
🎥 Watch Derek’s full talk and hear what he would tell his newly diagnosed self:
Comments