Liver Transplant for my Sister

Update! Amy received her new liver on 8/11/17!!

My sister Amy is the most postive and joyful woman of God, even though she has been through many struggles in life!  10 years ago, she was serving the Lord on a missions trip when she was diagnosed with the bowel disease Ulcerative Colitis.  After 4 difficult years, she had a life saving surgery to remove her colon and received an illeostomy bag, which she still has today.  

Her struggles were far from over however when she was then diagnosed with a chronic liver disease called PSC.  PSC stands for Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and is a disease of the bile ducts in the liver, causing them to become inflamed, scarred and obstructed. As the disease progresses the bile ducts narrow, therefore compromising the liver and all its functions. This ultimately leads to liver failure and the need for a transplant. 

Amy has been under amazing care at KU Med Center and Hospital. She has been through numerous procedures to monitor disease progression or alleviate symptoms. Her most recent labs showed such a significant increase in her numbers that she now meets the criteria to be able to receive a new liver.

Due to the nature of PSC, it is inevitable that she would ultimately need a liver transplant, so receiving this news was actually a great thing! She is closer now than ever before to receive the life saving surgery and is currently waiting for that important phone call.

Those who know Amy know what a happy, compassionate, and strong woman she is!  She daily amazes those around her with her joy and grace. From the outside, it is very difficult to see the daily battle going on within her body. She lives each day with purpose and faith. She has overcome so much at a young age yet refuses to let it bring her down.  

On top of it all, she overcame more hardship as she adjusted to being a single mom a couple years ago. You wouldn't know it though as she gracefully handles any adversity that comes her way.  She is an amazing mother to her 4 year old son Gunner and that little boy is so blessed to have her!

She amazes us all on a daily basis with her fire for life and relentless spirit. She is nothing but hopeful that God will see her through this and use it to create such a beautiful testimony.  Her faith is unwavering no matter what storm lies ahead.  

 Amy currently teaches preschool and she will not be able to work for many months during recovery.  She will have high medical bills, living expenses and child care costs to cover during this time.  In due time, Amy wishes to take classes to renew her Kansas Teaching License and teach elementary school again. She plans to continue coaching cross-country at her graduating high school and above all, gain a better quality of life in order to cheer on her son through sports growing up...as a healthy mom!  

Thank you so very much to all who are able to contribute to this cause for my sister! She truly is so special and loved by so many.  We ask for consistent prayer during this time  for peace, patience, grace, hope and strength. 

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!!