The Current Would you become a living donor to a stranger?
Dec 23, 2025
In this engaging conversation, guests Stephanie Azzarello and Trisha Beard share an inspiring story of hope and generosity. Stephanie, an art history fellow, recounts her journey through severe liver illness and her desperate search for a living donor. Trisha, a compassionate nurse, answered Stephanie's call and overcame cross-border challenges to provide a portion of her liver. Their emotional connection blossoms post-surgery as they reflect on the power of kindness and the renewal of life, creating an unbreakable bond.
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Life Before And After Illness
- Stephanie describes daily life at the University of Toronto and how her illness made ordinary moments precious.
- She emphasizes being a hugger and talker after near-death experiences shaped her perspective.
PSC Can Suddenly Become Severe
- Primary sclerosing cholangitis can lie dormant and then suddenly become severe, misleading patients.
- Stephanie recounts long periods of stability followed by abrupt, debilitating decline.
Symptoms That Crippled Daily Life
- Stephanie details progressive symptoms: jaundice, severe itching, nausea, and brain fog that impaired memory and work.
- She describes colleagues worrying and her being stabilized only intermittently by modern medicine.