This November, we’re coming together as one global PVRI team to shine a light on pulmonary hypertension research and innovation during PH Awareness Month through our new challenge: Breath Beyond Borders. PVRI members and friends across the world are taking on a personal challenge that pushes their limits. Whether running, walking, cycling, swimming—or even playing the piano—we’ll be taking on these activities individually, in our own time and locations, throughout the month of November.

Though separated by oceans and time zones, we are united by a common mission: to raise awareness about the importance of continued global research and innovation in pulmonary hypertension — advancing understanding, improving treatments, and ultimately transforming lives.

Together, with the cumulative distance we cover, we will virtually travel through as many countries as we can to 'arrive' in Dublin by the end of November. Our virtual arrival in Dublin is particularly meaningful, as the city will host our PVRI 2026 Congress from 28 January - 1 February 2026. It’s not just a destination, but a milestone that links our present efforts to the future aspirations of our whole PH community. Through this shared effort, we aim to reflect the strength and determination of those around the world living with PH every day.

And throughout it all, our challenge will be set to a truly special soundtrack: Paul Hassoun, one of our esteemed team members, will be performing an extended piano session in support of the cause—his music providing the rhythm, spirit, and emotion behind every mile.

This challenge isn’t just about physical achievement—it’s about unity, creativity, advocacy, and hope. We invite you to follow our journey, support the PVRI Breath Beyond Borders global team, and help spread the word. Together, we’re making every mile (and every note) count.

Participants (alphabetical order)

- Gasper Barta, Spain, Cycling, 500 km / 312.5 miles

- Louise Bouman - van der Waal, Netherlands, Walking, 30 km / 18.75 miles

- Elvia Carvalho Silva, United Kingdom, Walking, 160 km / 100 miles

- Katie Corris, United Kingdom, Running, 150 km / 93.2 miles

- Paul Corris, United Kingdom, Cycling, 500 km / 312.5 miles

- Alejandro Cruz, Spain, Running, 50 km / 31.25 miles

- Frances de Man, Netherlands, Running 60 km / 37.5 miles

- Debs Driscoll, United Kingdom, Swimming, 33.6 km / 21 miles

- Gil Golden, USA, Cycling 400 km / 250 miles

- Paul Hassoun, USA, Piano, 8 hours in one go

- Anna Hemnes, USA, Running/walking, 256 km / 160 miles

- Deimante Hoppenot, Lithuania, Walking, 30 km / 18.75 miles & Cycling, 40 km / 25 miles

- Luke Howard, United Kingdom, Rowing, 150 km / 93.75 miles

- Mathijs Kruk, Netherlands, Speed skating, 150km / 93.75 miles

- Brad Maron, USA, Running, 41.6 km / 26 miles

- Nick Morrell, United Kingdom, Cycling, 400 km / 250 miles

- Esther Nossent, Netherlands, Yoga, 10 hours per week

- Karen Osborn, United Kingdom, Walking, 80 km / 50 miles

- Carlos Sanmarco, USA, Running 100 km / 62.5 miles

- Werner Seeger, Germany, Cycling, 500 km / 312.5 miles

- Eszter Toth, Netherlands, Running, 40 km / 25 miles

- Frankie Varian, United Kingdom, Running 40 km / 25 miles

- Thao Verle, France, Running 40 km / 25 miles