When Bellamy Young’s father was diagnosed with cirrhosis in his 50s, her family thought they’d reached the end of the road. What they didn’t know then: liver disease can affect the brain. As her dad began to change—memory slips, getting lost on familiar routes—the diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) finally named what they were living.
In this tender, practical conversation, Bellamy shares how stigma kept her family silent, how speaking up became part of her own healing, and why caregivers need community as much as patients. We explore the exhausting vigilance of caregiving, the courage to ask for help, and the relief of finding language—and a path—through something you never expected to face.
We talk about
What families often miss about HE and liver disease
Caregiver hypervigilance: why it happens and how to come down from it
Shame vs. truth: stepping out of hiding and into support
What’s changed in HE understanding and treatment since Bellamy’s dad’s experience
Practical ways to help a caregiver today (meals, childcare, an hour of quiet)
Key takeaways
You’re not alone. There’s a growing community around liver disease and HE.
Ask before you’re empty. Don’t wait until you’re “screaming” for help.
Caregiver care counts. Rest, simple rituals, and boundaries keep you in the story.
Language heals. Naming what’s happening reduces shame and opens doors to support.
Resources mentioned
*Caregiver planning tools and questions for appointments (the Caregivers Corner Bellamy references at xifaxan.com).
*Local support, peer groups, and your doctor’s care team for HE education and follow-up.
xo, Danielle
