Episode #13 | What My Life Was Like Before My Diagnosis - Part 3 - Liver Disease & Cirrhosis

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 มี.ค. 2023
  • This is what happened over the last 10 years as I destroyed my body both mentally, physically and emotionally. I hope this helps at least one other person to know that you’re not alone in your struggle. But, there is always hope!!
    East TN Liver Disease & Cirrhosis Support
    groups/12260...
    #cirrhosis #livercirrhosis #vanderbilt #liverdisease #alcoholism #support #lifestory #rehab #hospice

ความคิดเห็น • 95

  • @raymondlin8728
    @raymondlin8728 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    I was told by my doc i had early/mild cirrohsis, dont remember the exact term. So i stopped all drinking immediately. One year no alcohol. 365 nights x2 , 3 drinks, = 730 drinks hasnt passed thru my liver. My number im sure is improving. Hair is healthier, chrome dome is gone, skin not yellow, pot belly gone, swollen calves, ankles gone, looking less tired, more glow
    Now. Moving forward. Getting back to work....

    • @Higuita12398
      @Higuita12398 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      How old are you? How long / often did you drink?

  • @MonaYY_Rig
    @MonaYY_Rig ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Nick! Hey from Texas. What a Testimony 🙏🏼 you’re very strong and brave. Many of us have gone through the same or similar, in my case, my brother. I’m a RN and have seen cirrhosis a lot and I’ve also seen people that changed their lifestyle, diet etc and get pretty healthy again. I’m glad you’re doing better. I’m sorry you struggled so very much. Alcoholism does not make you a bad person. Sometimes a wake-up call is what turns things around and leads you in the right path. I’m praying for you friend, you got this I know. Godspeed. P. S. Tysm ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼💕🙏🏼💕🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      As always, Thank you Monay! And an even bigger THANK YOU for your work as an RN! Hospital process improvement was the professional field I worked in before it all hit the fan. Most people don't realize that NP's and all mid-levels do 90% of the work in healthcare. True angles on Earth!

    • @MonaYY_Rig
      @MonaYY_Rig ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@fortressfarms82 super cool. I thought you had Hospital background by your words. Praying for ya!!! 🤘🏻🙏🏼👍🏻

    • @Mlgraham22
      @Mlgraham22 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Nick, I stumbled across your story and I’m afraid I’m following a similar path. My adventure started with the pandemic WFH and the drinking picked up from there. I used to be weekend drinker but with WFH it progressed to everyday. I’m at about 400ml/day and have seen early signs of liver damage. Swelling feet, a swelling gut, some increase in breasts, etc. My question is before your condition became life-threatening did you see the warning signs too?

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Mlgraham22 I had a few signs but a lot happened so quickly that once they did I couldn't have stopped them. I did notice a slight bulge in my upper right side just below my ribcage/sternum. I was passing blood and eyes were light yellow (eventually bright yellow). I would imagine a WFH job would be tough if fighting alcohol abuse. Regardless, where there is drive there is possibility and where there is possibility, there is hope. 💚🙂

    • @Mlgraham22
      @Mlgraham22 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@fortressfarms82 thanks for sharing your story. We all battle our demons individually but you give us hope that there is a positive outcome if we keep fighting for it.

  • @laurafeatherstone6833
    @laurafeatherstone6833 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Thank you so much for this information. We have a family member who is battling alcoholism and your insight has been invaluable. Take care and stay strong.

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks Laura! It's a battle that hurts everyone involved. There is no such thing as a happy alcoholic. I'm sending positive vides to you and your family.

  • @7crabwalk11
    @7crabwalk11 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Good job my brother!
    I’ll never forget you. Your truth will march on. Keep shining a light on the darkness.

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว

      That warms my heart Stephen! You have no idea how much! 💚

  • @samgetta
    @samgetta ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks for sharing 🙏

  • @nordicpower3443
    @nordicpower3443 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Thank you for sharing your story! You’ve helped me a lot making me rethink some of my habits. Your story is a real wake up call for anyone that drinks alcohol.

  • @kevinconmy3625
    @kevinconmy3625 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I’ve known people or know people who drink with no end in sight.I hope they get it under control some day soon.I probably won’t have any place in that.But like I said I am heavy on the beer.Your story greatly encourages me to slow it down.I’m not at the point I need I NEED to have it.I don’t ever want it to get to that point.Thankyou for sharing your journey.We’re with you Nick!

  • @chp6489
    @chp6489 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Powerful! Thank You for sharing your story!

  • @bretthomas9425
    @bretthomas9425 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Thanks for this, Nick. I know it had to be hard as hell to open up about a lot of that. I'm glad you're alive to tell your story. It serves as a warning to some, and as hope for those who are already going through what you went through.

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thank you Bret. I hope it is helping at least one person. :)

  • @andrealeighpotter3367
    @andrealeighpotter3367 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Wow! Bless you! I’m praying for your complete recovery. Thank you for sharing!

  • @JohnSmith-lt3jl
    @JohnSmith-lt3jl ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Vey informative videos -delivered humanely -hope you live a long,happy and loving life.

  • @sarli85
    @sarli85 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Wow thank you for sharing your story so honestly 🙏

  • @tomhancock2753
    @tomhancock2753 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Really enjoy you sharing. Thank you. Glad you still here to tell your story.

  • @ccr7712
    @ccr7712 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Hi Nick, I am sorry that you had to go through something like this, life can be really fucked up sometimes. I think someone could make a movie about what you went thru. it’s a really fascinating story, good luck 🍀.

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you CCR! I think we all have a movie through our experiences. They may just be categorized differently.

  • @kujaneck
    @kujaneck ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I'm from a huge drinking community in regina sk Canada and this video really hits home. Thanks for the inspiration to quit.

  • @sputnikua
    @sputnikua ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Nick, you have no idea the impact these videos have. It absolutely is helpful and thank you for sharing your story. I'm at a point where I know I have to change, because I know what the end game is if I continue to abuse alcohol. You lived to tell the story but I know others have not. You are an inspiration!

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว

      You're too kind Patrick. I'm glad you're finding them helpful on your journey!

  • @randblackwell8675
    @randblackwell8675 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hope you're doing well, Nick. Peace and Love to you!

  • @bobchantry3497
    @bobchantry3497 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you so much for sharing! God 🙏 bless

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว

      You're welcome friend. Thank you so much for watching and giving support!

  • @thesundreamers8423
    @thesundreamers8423 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    God bless you dude. I don't presume to know your faith, but sounds like you grew up in home with much faith. I pray that God or your Higher Power will hold you tight as you move forward on your journey. Thank your sharing these videos. It means a lot to me as someone who drinks but is always checking myself against red flags.

  • @prizzyhoney
    @prizzyhoney ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks for sharing❤

  • @catherinetschasar5737
    @catherinetschasar5737 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    How very brave of you to share your story. You are an inspiration! Keep going, man.

  • @laurieunser6281
    @laurieunser6281 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    You are brave and courageous for speaking the truth you never know who it may help. God bless you

  • @petermansell5146
    @petermansell5146 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you.

  • @TheHardCorePunkHead
    @TheHardCorePunkHead ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you for sharing your story. It takes guts to do so. Wishing health and healing.

  • @amandaonair7255
    @amandaonair7255 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Get 'em, Nick! 😉 loving your videos.

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว

      THANKS AMANDA!!! Great hearing from you! I hope I'm helping at least one other person. 🙂

  • @samusvikerness661
    @samusvikerness661 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I was riveted the entire video, man. Amazing story to share.

  • @hemidancer64
    @hemidancer64 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Hey Nick, I have so much respect for you, just putting it all out there. My 34 yo son has cirrhosis, and listening to you sharing your story really helps me. I carry so much guilt as a mom, and you are helping me understand my son’s drinking. He’s been sober for 9 months, ever since his diagnosis, and he’s doing so well, but I worry about him so much - about his health, his stress level, his financial situation, and his prognosis. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I hope you are doing well.

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว

      Im sending positive vibes to you and your son. It's so hard on the family of those who have been diagnosed. My mother passed in 2017 a my father in 2021 (it's actually 2 years exactly today). Having you there in sure is an amazing comfort to your son. Havibg lo ed ones when going through this is so important. Best of luck! 💚♥️

  • @randyfish3763
    @randyfish3763 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you - you are amazing and so relatable I will try to join yourface book group....

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm far from amazing but thank you Randy!

  • @mrcatman6854
    @mrcatman6854 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    God Bless you keep fighting

  • @sherrimitchell7290
    @sherrimitchell7290 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks for telling your story.

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you for listening Sheri. I just hope it helps someone.

    • @sherrimitchell7290
      @sherrimitchell7290 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You are helping me with my daughter so much. Her story is so much like yours.

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว

      @@sherrimitchell7290 it makes me so happy that I'm helping to make a difference! I'm happy to discuss anything I have experience with if it helps someone. If you have a question and want to keep it anonymousyou can join my FB group (if you haven't) and send me a PM. I'll talk about my experience in depth in a video 🙂💚.

  • @ladonnasimpson2954
    @ladonnasimpson2954 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thank you ♥️🙏🏽

  • @user-cf1ro9oi6v
    @user-cf1ro9oi6v 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    There’s always hope 😊

  • @btoal2001
    @btoal2001 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Nick, I’m obviously just catching up to your story, but I have to say, from the videos I’ve seen so far, I think you need to be sure to give yourself the credit you deserve. You’re strong and you’re a fighter. And while alcohol is a terrible disease that some people will never understand, you did and every time you put yourself out there and said “I need help” you went and sought out the professionals who would try and help you. It’s a never ending battle, and every day is a fight, but you don’t stop trying and that’s commendable. Do not give up. No matter what it takes.
    You may have mentioned this in a video I haven’t watched yet, or perhaps you don’t think it’s anyone’s business. But if you don’t mind, can I ask what your meld score is, or was at your most sick?

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว

      It's difficult to say because my billirubin level was >30 so it's impossible to get an exact score. BUT... if we're conservitive and just say it was 30 and consider my actual INR, Creatinin, and Sodium... My MELD score was 35 or 36 on a scale of 6-40. I'm betting it was higher since my CMP couldn't give my exact total billirubin. 🤔

  • @fortmist07
    @fortmist07 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    i join your Facebook support group very cool there is something for people with cirrhosis

  • @kathycochrn566
    @kathycochrn566 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    My husband has end stage cirrhosis and now in hospice care at home, because he refused treatment.2 yrs without meds . Good an bad days .

  • @mark70s29
    @mark70s29 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    You are so brave putting your story out there. Your videos are inspiring and I send you my thoughts.
    Would it be ok to ask you some questions?
    Peace brother! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Sure no problem! I'll probably put the answers in a video and give you a shout out in the video so you'll know if that's ok. I've answered questions in comments before but I've found it's much easier to do it that way so I don't miss anything and avoid receptiveness :).

    • @mark70s29
      @mark70s29 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      For example: did you get skin rash/itching? Night sweats, muscle weakness, cramps, suicidal thoughts, weird dreams, extremely tired - sleeping too much, feeling like you've 'had enough' like giving up?
      Respectfully..NM

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@mark70s29 Yes to all except "sleeping too much". Sounds wierd because I was so tired all the time but my body wouldn't let me sleep. I'll start putting together notes and will make a video on it. Easier to explain stuff that way 🙂. I'm open to doing topics if you (people) would like a detailed run through on them (through my personal experiences).

  • @sahanaswathi1446
    @sahanaswathi1446 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi, Nick, i lost my brother through liver chrosis this 17/7/ 2023,it's a huge loss fr us,and family,a lovable brother to me and family sorry I saw your vidoes today, if i.could have seen your videos before hope I could have saved him, advised him.not to take alcohol

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Hello and welcome to the channel. I'm very sorry to hear about your brother. Please do your best to honor his memory. A life of alcohol is not a fun path. 💚

  • @fortmist07
    @fortmist07 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    i had about the same experience

  • @minuette1752
    @minuette1752 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I had the breathalyzer experience as ell, I will not get into it. Lets just say I broke it, well sabotaged it so it would not work correctly. Those I lived with still basically knew I was drinking but that horrid thing could not read anything properly when I was done with it.

  • @davidr.4916
    @davidr.4916 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Wow, you drank the gallon vodkas? That's A LOT!

  • @catherinealexandrian9927
    @catherinealexandrian9927 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

  • @ccr7712
    @ccr7712 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Hi Nick, did you had your liver checked in the previous years before the final collapse ? When previously in rehab, were you diagnosed with some liver problems ? Fibrosis, lower stages of cirrhosis? Thanks.

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I had some light scarring in June of 2020 but I was having my gallbladder checked not my liver. In rehab, they don't do ultrasounds of advanced medical tests. Thet're just trying to get you detoxed and through their program. It's mostly mid-level providers and counselors. There is a Dr. on-call "technically" but they aren't around.

  • @little5bee
    @little5bee ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nick, did you have any DUIs? When my significant other got his 2nd, that's when he ultimately quit.

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes, I got a DUI (plead down eventually to wrekless driving with IC) in 2014 and a public intox charge (plead down then expunged) in 2003.

  • @bryontharp5790
    @bryontharp5790 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Did you ever catch any cases with the cops

  • @minuette1752
    @minuette1752 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I drank in the shower more times than I can count. It was like a place of peace and I could throw up if needed and get at least 10 shots worth in me (it was wine at my worst because hard stuff got to be to much a lot of the time) to start the day. One job I worked at I would sneak booze in and hide it various places at work. It was a restaurant where we smoked meats, so there was a lot of wood in an area where I could hide 20pz bottles with whatever I wanted. I even brought in a six pack one time and hid it in the walk in cooler.

  • @thomastarpley5116
    @thomastarpley5116 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Did you
    Keep up with your sponsors and meetings?

  • @raulcolmenero
    @raulcolmenero 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    .46 you could light your blood in fire almost

  • @jackthestuddd
    @jackthestuddd 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Hope you are doing well . If you don't
    mind can you share your LFT numbers when you were diagnosed with cirrhosis ? I heard the liver enzymes elevate in the early stage of liver diseases and it go back to normal range when the liver is cirrhotic because the liver is filled with scar tissues and there is no much healthy cells to damage that could leak out enzymes to your blood stream. Many people with normal liver enzymes ( ast higher than alt )have cirrhosis but their albumin and platelet count goes down. Did you get alcoholic hepatitis before cirrhosis or it bypassed hepatitis stage ?

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      In my case I had a fatty liver for a couple of years before I was oficially diagnosed with decompensated cirrhosis. I'd need to go back on my records so see exact numbers. Considering the ammount of alcohol I was drinking at the time my body had enough (Liver, Kidney, digestion, brain, the works).

    • @jackthestuddd
      @jackthestuddd 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@fortressfarms82 : Fatty liver is the wake up call. I am just wondering why people even Doctors just ignoring fatty liver. Its really a silent killer.

  • @leftwingwacko
    @leftwingwacko ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Everyone has there struggles, mine is gambling on the Stockmarket i need to end this destructive secret. Fortunately I am single with no kids so i am only hurting myself

    • @fortressfarms82
      @fortressfarms82  ปีที่แล้ว

      Addiction takes on many different forms my friend. The only thing most of them have in common is a destructive behavior.