Hi everyone,

This is incredibly difficult for me to write, but it’s time to be open about what’s been happening in my life.

I have Wilson’s disease, a rare genetic condition that causes copper to build up in the body. Over time, it has led to stage three liver failure, and my liver is no longer able to function on its own. I am currently under the care of GI specialists and undergoing ongoing treatment, but the reality is that I am now in need of a liver transplant. I am expected to be eligible and placed on the transplant list by the end of February.

Over the past month and a half, I spent a prolonged hospital stay where I nearly didn’t make it. My ammonia and metal levels became dangerously high due to liver failure, and since then I’ve been going in and out of the hospital regularly for treatment. At this time, I am unable to work and won’t be able to return until after a transplant and recovery.

Right now, my focus is survival — quite literally. I rely on multiple medications just to stay alive while waiting for a transplant. In addition, I require physical therapy, as well as regular therapy for myself and my children, to help us all cope with the physical and emotional toll this has taken.

I am a mom to my kids, including twins, and my biggest priority is keeping stability in their lives. This includes keeping a roof over our heads, maintaining staple housing, and ensuring they are cared for during this uncertain time. Unfortunately, there are no charities or assistance programs currently available to us, as funding has been cut.

Diet is also critical with liver failure. The medically necessary meals and nutrition required to keep my body stable are not inexpensive, and providing healthy, appropriate meals for all of us has become another challenge during this time.

Asking for help is not something I do easily. I’ve kept much of this private for as long as I could, but I’ve reached a point where I can’t do this alone anymore. Any support — whether through donations, sharing this page, or simply keeping us in your thoughts — means more than I can put into words.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for helping us get through this incredibly difficult chapter. Your kindness is helping keep my family together while I fight for my life.

With gratitude,

Kelli Schwab