Young Falisha Zafilin bid farewell to primary sclerosing cholangitis
and welcomed a more fulfilling childhood thanks to an altruistic donor,
as well as NUH doctors who successfully carried out her liver transplantation procedure.
Issue 5 | June 2024
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At a tender age of six, Falisha wrestled with constant lethargy, endured hair loss and often missed schools—factors that inevitably narrowed her social circle.
Diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) at just two years old, her condition grew more dire when she was later diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a rare and severe liver disease characterised by persistent inflammation, destruction and scarring of the bile ducts. Individuals afflicted with this disease may experience abdominal pain, itchy skin, diarrhoea, jaundice, fatigue and fever due to blockages, infections and inflammation of the bile ducts.
A turning point in Falisha’s life came when the generosity of an altruistic donor, combined with the dedication and expertise of a team of medical experts at the National University of Hospital (NUH), led to a successful liver transplant. Now 14, she lives a more fulfilling childhood and has developed a keen interest for drama.
At the heart of Falisha’s medical journey is her primary doctor, Dr S. Venkatesh Karthik, Senior Consultant, Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Nutrition, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Department of Paediatrics, Khoo Teck Puat – National University Children’s Medical Institute (KTP-NUCMI)1 at NUH.
Dr Karthik’s expertise was particularly crucial in Falisha’s case, as the complexities of PSC demanded not just surgical precision but also a nuanced approach to her ongoing care. He devised a comprehensive treatment plan that balanced the immediate demands of post-transplant care with her long-term health management.
Today, Falisha’s life has transformed under Dr Karthik’s care. While still requiring regular follow-ups and care post-transplantation, she is no longer confined by frequent hospital visits. Falisha now enjoys a fuller, more vibrant life. She attends school regularly, participates actively in her drama group and pursues her growing passion for acting and scriptwriting.
“I wish to pursue drama and use drama to help others,” says Falisha.
“It’s been a gratifying experience to witness Falisha’s journey towards recovery and a new lease on life,” says Dr Karthik.
1KTP-NUCMI is part of the National University Centre for Women and Children (NUWoC), a national university specialist centre that aims to empower women, children and their families to lead healthier lives.
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