Jessica had a liver transplant (VIC)

In 2010, while enjoying the first few weeks of motherhood with her daughter Meadow, Jessica suddenly became lethargic and started losing weight. At first, she put it down to being a tired, breast-feeding mum, but it quickly became apparent there was something more going on.  

When Jessica became very unwell at Meadow’s christening, a family member urged her to go to the emergency department. There, she was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis, a disease that caused her immune system to attack her liver. 

Jessica spent years battling the effects of her condition, until she had no choice but to go on the transplant waitlist.  

‘It’s a pretty relentless condition. I got extremely sick in the 3 years leading up to my transplant,’ Jessica said. ‘I had to stop working, I couldn’t drive, and I couldn’t be left in charge of looking after Meadow. I developed encephalitis and lost my motor skills.’ 

Then, Jessica received the call that saved her life – a donor liver was available. But Jessica says it’s bittersweet.  

‘On someone’s worst day, I got my miracle. After 407 days of waiting, my life was saved by the generosity of a stranger.’ 

Jessica’s health has improved dramatically since her transplant. She returned to work in just months and is back to running 8 to 9 kms a day. 

She’s especially thankful for the second chance she has, to see her daughter Meadow grow up.  

‘My little girl has never had me healthy until now. I’m focused on making up for lost time. Every day the choices I make are to honour my donor. I am forever grateful.’