Bryan Sizemore-Liver Transplant Journey

On April 24 2022 my wife Noelle and I received a diagnosis that has forever changed our lives. I was told that I had end stage cirrhosis of the liver due to NASH. We were devastated to say the least.

I never thought I would be alive today and I am barely holding on waiting on a donor. I have three potential living donors waiting to be tested at Duke over the next few weeks. We are praying and believing that one matches. This disease has ravaged my body to the point of having no muscle mass left. I fully depebd on my wife for everything. I am still fighting as hard as I can physically, even though my body is wearing out. 

I am constantly having to go back and forth to the doctor. I am currently going twice a week to have fluid drained off my abdomen, which is called Paracentesis. They drain roughly 20 lbs each time from. Luckily, that is done outpatient here in Onslow County. Also, we are making multiple trips a month to Duke to meet with specialists and my transplant team. I have been admitted several times with complications from disease. One year ago I weighed 291 lbs and now due to this disease I only weigh 188 lbs. I have barely enough energy to participate in any family activities or even throw the football with my son.

I struggle each day with facing my mortality. I lie awake a lot of nights just trying to calm my mind. There is an unreal physical impact on not being able to take care of our house, having to tell my son I can’t do something, not being able to mow my own yard and the list goes on. 

The mental side of this disease has devastated me as well. I am unable to work until I can get a transplant and recover. I have to depend on my wife to take care of me and do most everything for me. It’s hard being a provider and having all of that snatched away. Noelle works from home and we have been trying to stay afloat as I have had to go out on Long Term Disability.

We are coming to the end of our rope. Bank accounts are drying up and saving accounts are being depleted as well. I have never had to ask anyone for help but we need some help financially. The money will be utilized to help with household necessities, bills, medical expenses, and travel and lodging for our numerous trips to Duke. Our health insurance covers a lot but the cost of the medicines are an unbelievable expensive. It is quickly coming to a choice of paying mortgage or paying for medical needs. If you could find it in your heart to help us it will forever be appreciated. Noelle and I have put this in God’s hands as the mighty healer and provider. We covet your prayers in the months ahead!