Jan’s Story

Site created on January 28, 2023

Welcome to our CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting.

In 1984-85 I was diagnosed with PSC - Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (a progressive terminal scarring of the bile ducts) - a non-alcoholic auto-immune liver disease. I was referred to Mayo Clinic and received confirmation of the disease. Upon diagnosis, I was told my life expectancy was 7-9 years without doing a transplant.
My journey has continued with a few bumps along the way, but this past year has had significant health events happening, all pointing to signs of advanced liver failure. In the past 6-8 months I have had numerous hospitalizations for: ascites, leg edema, varices, blood clots in vessels associated with the liver, sepsis, cholangitis, hepatic encephalopathy and coma, & pleural effusion. The pleural effusion has led to a permanent catheter (PleurX) being placed to drain the left pleural cavity as needed.
Studies indicate I currently have minimal liver function and the only solution is a liver transplant. Without transplant they are predicting my life expectancy at 3-12 months, with a successful transplant that should increase to 3-5 years or more.
Jan. 16-20 I went thru extensive testing at Mayo to determine my eligibility for this major transplant surgery. The transplant team has determined that I am a candidate. So after a couple more steps I will be placed on the active transplant list. Until transplant I will need to be within 3 hours of Mayo, so when they call with a possible cadaver liver match I can get there quickly for surgery.
We are using CaringBridge to communicate updates to all of you in a timely fashion. We truly appreciate all the Prayers, Love, and Support you have already given us.
Thank you for visiting this site!
Jan

Newest Update

February 20, 2024

Journal entry by Jan jaskowiak —

It’s with a sincere,  heart-felt  ‘Thank You’  to each one of you, that I have reach this point in Life.  Along with my Family’s tremendous help, it is all your  Prayers,  Caring,  &  Support that have helped me reach this point in Life!   One year ago today I received the Gift of Life with the transplant.  What a fabulous year it has been, only a few minor set backs, presently still working thru some rejection issues.    I am so Blessed,  it’s truly a Miracle!!   Please remember my Donor & her/his Family as they are grieving a loss!   Thank You All for being a part of my Life!!  I pray for God’s Blessing for all of you!!  
Read More of the journal titled "February 20, 2024"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Jan Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Jan's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Leave a comment of support for Jan

Did you know? A quick comment, no matter the situation (positive or negative), can boost morale by 28.2%.

Comments Hide comments

Load more comments
Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

Personal Fundraiser
Support Links
Helpful Requests
Go to Ways to Help
SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top