My name is Cherie Haynes, I am 34 years old, and I have End-Stage Cirrhosis. I am also a mother to two daughters; Rian, 13 and Scarlett, 4. I have been married for 9 years to Anthony, who is currently enlisted in the United States Navy.

In 2012, after I had my daughter Rian, I became very sick. In and out of doctors' appointments and hospital visits. I was originally diagnosed with Lupus, Hashimoto's disease, Hypothyroidism, Fibromyalgia,

GERD, and IBS.

In late 2015 I was rushed to the hospital for liver failure. After being admitted for a week, I was able to go home. When I met and got married to Anthony in 2016, I was properly tested and had a full work up completed for my health. Come to find out that I never had Lupus. I actually had Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH). Along with multiple other health issues that were mentioned earlier and more. Due to the misdiagnosis, my Auto-Immune Hepatitis had resulted in me having stage 3 cirrhosis, which quickly advanced to end-stage cirrhosis.

I am in desperate need of a liver transplant, and even if I were to receive a transplant, there is 10-15% risk that I could contract cirrhosis again due to my AIH. I was accepted onto the Scripps transplant list in July 2023. My hepatologist at Scripps doesn't believe I would get a transplant here in California. (the list is too large and they have limited organs to provide). I'm currently listed at the Mayo Clinic Transplant center in Phoenix, AZ.

Since I live in California, it is difficult making 5 hour trips there and back for follow ups, testing, and consults. When I get the transplant, I will have to stay in a hotel for up to 8 weeks for post-transplant testing and care. This is complicated more with having to have family come out to take care of my children, and possibly even having family have to take time off to help.

Even if you can't donate, I ask you to please share with any friends, family, and acquaintances that you can. I am trying my best to stay positive and hopeful and appreciate any help you can give. Thank you for taking the time to hear my story.