The story of Cassi
It started off with itchy skin, after weeks of trying different lotions and bath treatments, I noticed my eyes turning yellow. I was also struggling with severe fatigue. I blamed my poor diet, working all the time, and lack of drinking water. I immediately started to eat better and drink more water. My skin started to turn dark… and I could barely stay awake for more than a few hours at a time. Other horrible symptoms soon followed. Then nausea was constant… it was preventing me from eating. At this point, I gave in and went to the doctor. After a week in the hospital, and 3 procedures later. I was diagnosed with PBC. An extremely rare liver disease. And even more rare for someone as young as I am. I felt scared, alone, and depressed. I did constant research and found a few support groups. I became vocal about my disease and because of that, other woman my age have reached out to me trying to find others to help them cope. Finding others living with this has helped in so many ways. We share symptoms, and we understand each other. My hope is to share my story so that one day we can have a cure for others living with this progressive disease. Until then, I’ve learned to stay positive, rest when needed, eat healthy, and exercise daily. I will win this fight against liver disease.