Amy's Journey
Teenage Diagnosis to Marathon Runner
At 19, Amy’s world was turned upside down by a PSC diagnosis. But instead of letting it stop her, she’s proving she is "more than a diagnosis" by taking on the Brighton Marathon.
Amy kindly opens up, sharing her journey in her own words.
Diagnosis
Last year, I was diagnosed with PSC, a disease I had never heard about until that moment. At just 19 years old, this was something I never imagined hearing. PSC isn't often something people know about or are aware of.
Back in February 2024, I was sent to A&E with suspected appendicitis (turns out I was having an awful endometriosis flare-up). During this visit, they noticed I had abnormal liver blood tests, so I was referred to a specialist. Eventually, an MRCP and a liver biopsy confirmed my diagnosis of large duct PSC.
Getting this diagnosis made a lot of things in my life make sense, like my awful fatigue and weakened immune system; it gave me answers.
Connecting with community
When PSC was first mentioned to me, I went straight to Google and read that I would die in 10 years and everything came crashing down.
I am so grateful I found the incredible PSC Support community as quickly as I did, as it has been a massive contributor to me coming to terms with my diagnosis and made me realise that this statistic is not accurate.
When I was growing up, my dad was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, so I was very aware of the struggles associated with living with a chronic illness, but that didn't stop the diagnosis from hitting me like a ton of bricks.
That's why I set myself the goal of running the Brighton Marathon, to prove to myself that no matter what life throws at me, I am more than a diagnosis!
Looking to the future
Although I don't know what my future holds I am so incredibly lucky to have such an amazing support system around me. The support and love they show me everyday helps me get through each day.
This diagnosis hasn't stopped me one bit. I have recently qualified as a dental nurse and am now working towards getting into university to study dental hygiene. If anything, this diagnosis is pushing me even further.
I am so proud to be raising money for PSC Support and so grateful that I have already smashed my original fundraising target!
Thank you Amy for sharing her journey while raising vital awareness and funds.
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