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💜 Cirrhosis of the Liver: A Sickle Cell Complication, Not an Alcohol Story

When most people hear “cirrhosis of the liver,” they think of alcohol-related damage. But cirrhosis simply means scarring of the liver — and it can result from many causes, including chronic inflammation, blocked blood flow, and iron overload, all of which are common in sickle cell disease (SCD).


In Raegan’s case, cirrhosis is a direct complication of her sickle cell anemia. This form of liver damage is often called sickle cell hepatopathy, and it’s caused by repeated episodes of sickled red blood cells blocking blood vessels in the liver, leading to tissue injury, bile duct damage, and long-term scarring.


🩺 What Cirrhosis Means for Raegan


Cirrhosis isn’t just a diagnosis — it’s a cascade of complications that affect nearly every part of the body. Here are the ones Raegan has experienced:

  • Ascites: Fluid buildup in the abdomen due to poor liver function and portal hypertension

  • Variceal bleeding: Enlarged veins in the esophagus that can rupture due to increased pressure in the portal vein

  • Hepatopulmonary syndrome: A rare but serious condition where liver disease affects lung function, causing low oxygen levels. Raegan is currently on oxygen both day and night because of this complication.

  • Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to the liver’s inability to process bilirubin

  • Portal hypertension: High blood pressure in the liver’s main vein, caused by scar tissue blocking normal blood flow

  • Coagulation disorders: The liver produces clotting factors, so when it’s damaged, bleeding and bruising become more frequent

  • Hepatic encephalopathy (prevented with medication): A buildup of toxins in the brain due to poor liver filtration, which can cause confusion, sleepiness, and even coma


💊 Why This Matters

Raegan’s care team is working tirelessly to manage these complications — from medications to prevent encephalopathy, to monitoring her oxygen levels and abdominal swelling. But the reality is that sickle cell-related cirrhosis is often misunderstood, and insurance hurdles can delay access to life-saving treatments.


This blog is part of our mission to raise awareness, build understanding, and invite support. Raegan’s journey is not defined by alcohol, but by a genetic condition that affects her liver, lungs, blood, and brain. And through it all, she continues to shine.


💜 Closing Thoughts

Raegan’s journey with cirrhosis of the liver, caused by sickle cell anemia, is a reminder that this disease is not just about blood — it touches the liver, lungs, brain, and every part of daily life. From ascites and variceal bleeding to the need for oxygen day and night due to hepatopulmonary syndrome, each complication shows the weight she carries with courage.


By sharing her story, we hope to raise awareness that cirrhosis is not always linked to alcohol, and that sickle cell complications deserve the same urgency, understanding, and support. Every prayer, share, and act of advocacy helps us fight for Raegan’s care and shine a light on the broader sickle cell community.


Together, we can ensure Rae, The Light, continues to shine — not just for our family, but for all families navigating the unseen battles of sickle cell disease. 💜






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