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Welcome to the LISN Monthly Journal! This month we're challenging stigma and celebrating progress! Stigma surrounding liver disease is a hidden burden many patients face daily. Misconceptions often lead to unwarranted judgment, with people assuming liver disease is self-inflicted. Studies reveal that nearly half of patients with non-alcoholic liver conditions report being wrongly perceived as alcohol-dependent. Even those with alcohol-related liver disease face undue blame, despite it being a recognized medical disorder—not a moral failing. It’s time to change the narrative. Let’s educate, empathise, and dismantle the stereotypes that harm mental health and quality of life for liver patients everywhere. Compassion, not criticism, is the path forward.

Welcome to the LISN Monthly Journal! Over the past few weeks, we've shared memorable moments through various events like the Golf Classic, anniversary dinners, and fundraisers, all aimed at supporting LISN’s vital projects. In this edition, we celebrate the success of recent liver transplants, reflect on Ireland’s transplant progress, and compare it with international trends. We also highlight the inspiring example of Croatia’s leading transplant system, and encourage everyone to make the life-changing "One Decision" to become an organ donor. Let’s continue making a difference together!

Welcome to our first blog, the space for sharing non-medical advice and information, up-to-date research findings on liver disease and transplants, motivational conversations, news and events updates, fundraising opportunities and our future plans, selfcare tips and so much more… Let’s begin with introductions. You know us, the committee, from this website - Meet the Team – let us introduce you to YOU, LISN members...

The Human Tissue (Transplantation, Post-Mortem, Anatomical Examination and Public Display) Act was signed into law on 26th February 2024 and provides a robust, transparent and ethical legal framework.

I was 11 years old when I found out that I had a Heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, inherited from my mother. Life continued as normal through my teenage years until May 2001 when my mum passed away unexpectedly due to complications of the Heart condition. This is when I received more intense tests and found out that it was more severe than first thought as I received an implantable ICD that could give my Heart an electrical shock if needed.

For those of you who don't know me my name is Harry Ward I was living with kidney failure for 20 years after 3 year on dialysis I got the call and thanks to my Donor and family I am living life to the full for 18 years I have been involved in Transplant Sport and I really think this has kept me fit and healthy also for my mental health too. Transplant Sport Ireland formally known as Transplant Team Ireland is like one big happy family who all have an interest in sport

In 2016, skin cancer was the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Ireland, with over 11,000 cases. The immunosuppressant medication required by organ transplant recipients to prevent organ rejection puts us at greater risk for developing skin cancer.

I think the key to doing well after transplantation is to try to return to as normal a life as possible, hopefully better and healthier than before. I have thought about how I managed to get healthy and stay healthy and think it is worth sharing.

The road of liver disease and transplant, both prior to and post transplantation, can be a long and difficult one. It's filled with fear, uncertainty and a constant battle against disease progression and recurrence. Consequently, and following a request from St Vincents University Hospital, a group of post-transplant patients have come together to form a patient-led support group and we are delighted to introduce a new organisation called Liver Ireland Support Network (LISN).