I’m Aware That I’m Rare: Carl Hicks (273)

The phaware® interview

Carl Hicks is a beloved member of the pulmonary hypertension community and tireless advocate for patients and caregivers alike. Carl is a combat-decorated U.S. Army Airborne Ranger Officer who served our country for nearly 25 years. His daughter Meaghan was diagnosed with idiopathic arterial pulmonary hypertension while Carl was serving overseas. Meaghan lost her battle with PH during Carl’s service as the board chair of PHA. He reflects on Meaghan on what would have been her 38th birthday.

My name is Carl Hicks. I’m talking to you today from Tacoma Narrows Airport near Gig Harbor, Washington.

My connection to the pulmonary hypertension space began back in 1994, but really began further back than that, began almost 38 years ago this week. At that point in time I was a soldier, I was young Army ranger, and my wife and I were blessed with the birth of our firstborn child, Meaghan. It was on August 16th of 1981. One of the happiest moments of my life.