David Little

This is my story.


On November 18th my health took a huge turn.  After an ambulance ride and a stay at MercyOne in Sioux City I was diagnosed with NASH, Non Alcoholic Cirrhosis of the Liver with esophageal varices.   Varices are large or swollen veins on the lining of the esophagus.  It took two procedures to band the esophageal varices and keep them from bleeding.  Then my kidneys did not keep up their end of the bargain, causing issues over the last several weeks.


Initially, the prognosis was for a liver transplant in 10 to 15 years.  However, in the past few weeks things have changed and the reality is a transplant is needed now.  One of the biggest issues has been to keep fluids in check.  That has been hard due to changes in medication.  Fluid built up and  started messing with my kidney function.  It was decided a couple weeks ago to start the paper work needed to begin working with the Transplant Team at University of Nebraska Medical Center.  At the same time a different approach was tried to get my kidneys back on track.


I had my first abdominal paracentesis on January 31st, where a needle was inserted into the peritoneal cavity and ascitic fluid was removed.  That time  6.5 quarts was removed from my abdomen and I went home.  I was told to monitor my weight for changes that would indicate fluid was building again.


All seemed to be well, but it didn't last long.  While Kristi was gone on trip with her mom and sisters, Baylee, Josh and my father-in-law watched over me.  Five days after the 1st paracentesis, just last Wednesday, it was evident that I was not good.  My father-in-law, Ron, took me to MercyOne in Sioux City and I was admitted.    My kidneys have failed to react with meds, and an additional  11.5 quarts of fluid was removed from my abdomen.  My liver is not functioning properly so I am unable to get rid of any toxins in my system. Today a port was put in to do a round of dialysis to help stabilize things and be ready for transfer  to UNMC, in Omaha where I will be cared for by the Transplant Team.

 My whole family appreciates your words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for your support!