Stories - Liver Health Awareness

Sarah's Journey to Recovery

New York | Age: 42

"For years, I didn't think my nightly two glasses of wine were an issue. I was successful, maintained my weight, and exercised regularly. When routine blood work showed elevated liver enzymes, I dismissed it as a temporary issue."

"After my diagnosis with early-stage alcoholic hepatitis, I was shocked. I didn't fit what I thought was the 'profile' of someone with liver disease. My doctor explained that the liver can silently sustain damage for years before showing symptoms."

"It's been three years since I completely stopped drinking. My liver has largely recovered, and I've discovered a new passion for creating alcohol-free social events in my community. I never realized how alcohol had become such a central part of my social identity until I had to reimagine my life without it."

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Michelle's Wake-Up Call

Chicago | Age: 38

"I started drinking heavily in college, and it just became part of my routine. A few beers after work, more on weekends. I never missed work or had legal troubles, so I didn't think I had a problem."

"The fatigue came first, then the yellowing of my eyes. By the time I was diagnosed with cirrhosis, the damage was severe. My doctor told me I needed to stop drinking immediately if I wanted a chance at recovery."

"Recovery has been the hardest thing I've ever done, but also the most rewarding. I'm now an advocate for early screening and awareness. Many of my friends have gotten liver function tests after hearing my story, and some have made significant changes to their drinking habits."

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The Rodriguez Family: Supporting Recovery

Miami | Ages: Various

"When my father was diagnosed with advanced alcoholic liver disease, it affected our entire family. For years, we had normalized his heavy drinking as just part of who he was."

"We didn't realize the toll it was taking on his health until it was almost too late. His recovery journey became our family's journey too. We learned about liver health together, changed our family gatherings to be alcohol-free, and supported each other through the emotional challenges."

"Today, five years after his diagnosis, our family has a new perspective on alcohol. We've become advocates in our community, particularly within our cultural context where heavy drinking was often celebrated. My father says that his illness ultimately gave our family a gift—the opportunity to heal not just his liver, but our relationships."

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Sarah's Journey to Recovery

Michelle's Wake-Up Call

The Rodriguez Family: Supporting Recovery

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