Richmond, VA

From Patient Advocate to Nurse: A Journey with PDSA

1. What’s your name?
   My name is Hannah.
   
   
2. Where are you from?
   I am from Richmond, VA.
   
   
3. How are you connected to ITP?
   I was diagnosed with ITP 19 years ago.
   
   
4. How/Why did you get involved with PDSA?  Why do you choose to stay involved?
   I got involved with PDSA back in the beginning of my diagnosis when my family and I were looking for resources and more information on ITP. We came across the PDSA page and found so many helpful resources.
   
   
5. What is your favorite part about volunteering for PDSA and spreading ITP Awareness?
   My favorite thing about volunteering for PDSA is helping guide new patients through their journey and be able to express how helpful this organization is.
   
   
6. How has PDSA impacted your healthy journey?
   PDSA has given me a community of people that I can relate to and connect with so I do not feel so alone. It is difficult having a rare disease, especially when no one around you understands how you feel or what you are going through, PDSA provides support for that.
   
   
7. What do you do for school/work?
   I am a registered nurse- I currently work in urology and specialize in advanced urologic oncology.
   
   
8. What can you be found doing on the weekends?
   On the weekends I enjoy spending time with family and friends.
   
   
9. What is one thing you’d share with a newly diagnosed patient? 
   I would share PDSA with a newly diagnosed patient to show that there is a community to support you through your journey. I would also say to find patience, as ITP is a difficult diagnosis and comes with a lot of ups and downs. It is a long journey trying to find answers, information and the right treatment that works for you. Everyone's journey and treatment plan is different but PDSA is there to support you through it.