From Diagnosis to Transplant: A Journey to Beating Cancer
A 32-year-old woman, Bianca Perea, has become cancer-free after receiving the UK's first liver transplant for advanced bowel cancer. Initially diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer that had spread to all eight segments of her liver, Bianca's journey to recovery was a challenging yet successful one.
Refusing to Accept a Bleak Outlook
Despite the devastating news delivered by doctors that she had cancer, Bianca refused to believe that the outlook was so grim. With determination and hope, she embarked on a treatment plan that included targeted drug therapy, chemotherapy, and eventually a liver transplant.
A Second Chance at Life
After undergoing 37 rounds of targeted drug therapy and chemotherapy, followed by successful surgery to remove the bowel tumor, Bianca still had tumors in her liver. However, due to her positive response to treatment, doctors considered a liver transplant. In February 2024, Bianca was added to the transplant list and underwent the life-changing surgery at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
Gratitude and Hope for the Future
Now cancer-free, Bianca expressed her gratitude to the donor family whose generosity made the transplant possible. She sees this as a second chance at life and is looking forward to making the most of it. Her oncologist, Dr. Kalena Marti, and hepatologist, Dr. Ian Rowe, praised her positive outcome and emphasized the importance of organ donation in saving lives.
Looking Ahead
Bianca is now focusing on improving her fitness and enjoying upcoming holiday plans. With a clear liver and a new lease on life, she is optimistic about the future and grateful for the gift of health.
