PSC biography

[Guest guest]

Name: Dirk

Age: 40

Marital status: Married with one daughter, another due in March '99

Location: Oakland California

Sex: Male

Age at diagnosis: 26. The doctors knew something was wrong with my

liver since age 22, but assumed it was Hep non A non B. PSC was not

diagnosed for another 4 years.

Meds for this disease: only herbs- Jadescreen and milk thistle. I see

an accupuncturist monthly, and I believe that this combo really slows

down the progression of the disease. I try to eat a low fat diet, lots

of apples and minimze sweets, caffeine and grease. No alcohol.

Stage of disease: I have already (1985) had an operation to remove my

gallbladder which was full of stones and the lower scarred portion of my

primary biliary duct. I was fine except for elevated liver enzymes for

the past 13 years until this summer. I re-experienced jaundice and

itching, and went back into the hosptial for a dilitation procedure.

They performed a biliary dilitation (angioplasty) in August '98. I am

much better now, but my endurance is still not back, and enzymes remain

elevated. I am fortunate in that the disease seems to be restricted to

the base of the primary duct. It is an easy access point for the

dilitation mentioned above.

About myself: I am happily married and totally infatuated with my

daughter. My biggest concern is being around to see her and her unborn

sibling grow up, and become whoever they become.

I like an active lifestyle including whitewater kayaking, scuba diving

backpacking and telemark skiing. I feel the best when I am outdoors. I

normally jog 1-2 miles with my trusty dog during the week to try

to stay in shape.

I run a small underwater equipment manufacturing company which makes

oceanographic submarines and remotely operated vehicle (as seen in the

movie Titanic).

Best to all of you in '99!!

Dirk

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