Jessica knew something was wrong very early on in her newborn daughter’s life. Sienna’s first symptom was jaundice, with her skin and eyes appearing yellow.

At just nine weeks old her daughter Sienna was quickly diagnosed with Biliary Atresia, a rare liver condition in which bile ducts become blocked, causing scarring in the liver and leading to cirrhosis. This led to an exploratory surgery and a bile-duct bypass surgery, giving Sienna more time, but not a cure.    

Jessica, a General Practitioner, recalls the overwhelming emotions upon learning her baby needed a lifesaving liver transplant. Sienna was placed on the liver transplant waitlist at just 5 months old.

"The biggest shock for me was realising Biliary Atresia wasn’t curable’ Jessica said, "We were in a constant state of waiting to receive the call that a liver was available, not knowing when it would come.’"

Sienna’s life was on the line, every moment a painful wait, but at 4am, four days after yet another hospital admission, the phone rang.  

"The call came through right after we had prayed about it with our pastor, we felt like it was God answering our prayers. We were so relieved but uncertain as our little baby now had to undergo a long and intensive surgery," Jessica said.

Sienna’s transplant surgery stretched over 10 gruelling hours, but the result was a success. But just when they thought Sienna was through the toughest part, complications struck. Signs of organ rejection surfaced, forcing her back into surgery 1 week later. But despite the hurdles, Sienna’s recovery was quick and remarkable.  

Now two years post-transplant, Sienna enjoys a vibrant life. She is an energetic and funny girl, full of life and joy, with a love for music, singing, playing with her friends at daycare, and turtles.

Reflecting on the experience, Jessica emphasises the profound impact of organ donation on her family. 

"It's an amazing gift you can give someone, especially a child who may need it. Every day is a blessing, we have that because of a generous donor," Jessica said.  

"We have written the anonymous letters of thanks to Sienna’s donor family, without them Sienna wouldn’t have had a second chance at life. We are forever thankful."

Before Sienna was born, Jessica was already a registered organ donor but now she is an even more passionate advocate. 

"I discuss it with everyone, as I have seen firsthand the amazing impact  it can bring to someone else’s life. Make sure you talk to your family and friends. Let them know of your wishes."

To register or check your Australian Organ Donation Registry head to: How to register as an Australian organ donor - Australian Organ Donor Register - Services Australia or Join the register | DonateLife