From Dive Trips to a Transplant: One Woman’s Battle With a Rare Autoimmune Liver Disease

This is a deeply personal and harrowing account of Quek Jon Jon's battle with Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC), a rare autoimmune liver disease that dramatically altered her life. As a former divemaster accustomed to adventure, Quek's diagnosis in 2017 marked a stark turning point. The progression of PBC, characterized by relentless fatigue, unbearable itching, and jaundice, paints a vivid picture of the physical and mental toll this condition can take. Her journey highlights the often-invisible struggles faced by individuals with chronic illnesses, forcing them to put their lives on hold while awaiting life-saving interventions like a liver transplant.

From the perspective of CNA, Quek's story underscores the significant impact of autoimmune diseases, particularly on women, who are disproportionately affected by PBC. The statistic that 80% of PBC patients are women is a critical piece of information that resonates deeply within our society, prompting reflection on potential gender-specific health vulnerabilities. While the exact triggers for PBC remain unclear, the article touches upon research exploring environmental factors, such as nail polish and smoking, alongside genetic predisposition. This nuanced approach acknowledges the complexity of the disease and the ongoing scientific quest to understand its origins.

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By then I was already suffering physically and mentally from lots of symptoms

Quek's experience, from the initial confusion following an unexpected diagnosis during a routine check-up to the debilitating symptoms that eventually forced her to stop working, is a powerful testament to her resilience. Her story serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of medical awareness and early detection. While international coverage might focus on the medical statistics and research findings, CNA emphasizes the human element – the courage, the suffering, and the hope for recovery that defines Quek's fight. Her story is not just about a rare disease; it's about the indomitable human spirit facing adversity head-on.

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It’s a different type of tiredness. When you sit down, you’ll just keep dozing off, and that goes on for the whole day