Lauren Gail Thompson, 28, of Las Cruces, NM passed away Saturday July 8, 2023 at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, TX after a lifelong battle with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).  Always courageous and optimistic, she never let the disease define her life.

Lauren was born on January 8, 1995 to David and Carla Thompson in Las Cruces, NM. She was diagnosed with PAH in 2002 at the age of 7.  We were extremely fortunate to have her care managed by one of only 2 pediatric PH specialists in the country at the time, at Denver Children's Hospital.  Dr. Dunbar Ivy and his outstanding team allowed Lauren to lead a happy and normal life for many years; she was able to receive multiple drugs and treatments that were just being developed for PH patients, and participated in several research studies to help promote future treatments, too.  Her care was transferred to another outstanding PH team at UNMH in Albuquerque when she turned 18.  

Pulmonary Hypertension is an extremely rare disease, is difficult to diagnose and manage, and the drugs used to treat it can leave the patient with many days of discomfort and inability to function "normally".  Perhaps worst of all is the fact that it is not a visible disease, and is therefore misunderstood by friends, family, and coworkers.  Lauren had her share of "PH" days, but always did her best to stay cheerful and carry on.

She attended Tombaugh Elementary, and was fortunate to be in the 1st-2nd-3rd grade multi-age class with Eileen Gilbert when she was diagnosed near the end of 1st grade; the community of students in the class at that time helped Lauren and her family transition to a new reality with love and compassion.  So many other staff at Tombaugh, Zia Middle School, and Las Cruces High School also knew and loved Lauren, and stayed in touch with her throughout her life.  She graduated from Las Cruces High School in 2013, and attended New Mexico State University, where she was proud to attain her Associate of Arts degree in 2021. 

She spent the last several years working as an office manager for Marathon Agriculture, and as a veterinary assistant for Paisano Animal Clinic.  She loved her work at both facilities, where her appreciation and enthusiasm for field research in vineyards (and wine) and her devotion to the care of animals and enthusiasm for surgery were  both developed.

Lauren recently found her passion for painting, and created many beautiful canvases for her friends and family. She was happiest with her closest friends and family, and adored her young niece and nephew. Anyone who knew Lauren was touched by her sweet, compassionate, cheerful personality and love for all whose lives she shared.  Her family and friends will miss her more than words can ever describe.

Lauren is survived by her parents David and Carla, her brother Kevin, his wife Lauren (yes, THAT was confusing!), nephew Luke, and niece Emily. She is also survived by her grandparents Charles and Carol Thompson as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins who loved her dearly. She is predeceased by her grandparents Carol Condie and Kent Stout.

While there will be no formal service, those who would like to honor Lauren are encouraged to learn more about PH and make a donation to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association at phassociation.org.

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