16, Female
PFIC Type 2 (also known as BSEP)
It is a genetic condition.
I was about 6 months old.
I don't remember at the time because i was only a baby.
I was always aware that I had a liver condition, my parents never needed to tell me. But when I got ill again and needed another transplant it was the Dr's and my parents who told me.
After the first transplant it hardly affected me at all - I just had to have my blood taken and hospital appointments every 6 months.
But I had to have another transplant in 2007 and it hasn't worked as well as the first. It affects me much more because i get tired easily and the itching sometimes stops me from sleeping and when i'm jaundiced i am much more self-conscious if i go out with my friends.
Yes i'm on immunosuppressants (MMF and Sirolimus), also steroids, and various other medication to stop me itching and help me sleep.
It used to be every 6 months, but since i got ill again its more like once every month or two which is hard cause we live quite far from the hospital.
Very well - Kings is an excellent hospital (especially the liver unit) and all the staff are lovely.
The good thing about having a liver condition is that it makes you more aware of other people's suffering especially on the wards where you hear about so many sad stories.
The bad things about having a liver condition is that you feel left out when all your friends go out and drink, when you know you cant. You also have to be on medication and go to hospital appointments for the rest of your life.
Yes i worry because having a liver condition means that you never know whats going to happen in the futre.
I hope to meet and make friends with other young people who have a liver condition through this new website!
