Imagine enduring major surgery… only to learn afterwards that it had nothing to do with the real problem.
That was my reality. For nearly two decades, my bloodwork showed elevated liver enzymes. At first, they weren’t high enough to cause concern, so I was sent home with lifestyle advice and little else.
If only I’d known they were warning signs.
I found out the truth when I lost my gallbladder. One day after having surgery to remove it, I endured what felt like another gallstone attack. But how could that be possible?
At my local emergency department, blood tests showed that my liver enzymes were now alarmingly high – and they kept climbing.
That’s how I eventually received my diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), a silent, rare autoimmune disease. And it had now begun to attack my liver.
The shock was overwhelming. Even more isolating? Most people – including some healthcare providers – had never even heard of PBC. It’s not curable, but with the right medication it can often be controlled or at least slowed down.
Fast forward to today. For the first time in 18 years, my liver enzymes are in the normal range. And my doctor says that my liver might even begin to heal – regenerating itself along with my hope.
No one should have to wait decades for answers or face the fear and isolation of a diagnosis that few understand.
This GivingTuesday, your gift is matched dollar for dollar. Together, we can regenerate hope so every patient has the chance for answers, treatment, and healing.
Sincerely,
Catherine
Liver health advocate
