A father of 3 felt healthy. Then a routine screening found a rare, deadly illness.

Curtis Jackson, at 46 years old, was feeling strong and healthy in late 2020 when he made the decision to update his life insurance policy. With a wife and three kids to care for, he wanted to ensure their financial security in case anything happened to him. Little did he know that this routine decision would uncover a life-threatening condition that would change his life forever.

After undergoing an extensive physical exam, Jackson received a concerning phone call regarding his liver numbers. Despite truthfully stating that he did not drink alcohol, his results resembled those of a “functioning alcoholic.” This led to further testing and the shocking discovery of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a rare liver condition that can lead to liver damage and, in some cases, a deadly cancer called cholangiocarcinoma.

Cholangiocarcinoma, also known as bile duct cancer, is a silent killer that often goes undetected until it has spread to other organs, making it difficult to treat. Approximately 20% of patients with PSC are diagnosed with this rare cancer, which affects only about 1 in 100,000 people in the U.S. Despite its rarity, the incidence of cholangiocarcinoma has been on the rise in recent years.

Fortunately, Jackson’s cancer was caught early, and he underwent intensive chemotherapy and radiation treatment to combat the disease. After weeks of grueling treatment, he received the news that he was cancer-free. The next step in his journey was a liver transplant, a procedure that would require close monitoring and regular check-ups for the rest of his life.

Following a successful surgery and a swift recovery, Jackson is now focusing on rebuilding his life with his family. He has regained much of the weight he lost during treatment and is slowly returning to his normal routine. Grateful for the second chance he has been given, Jackson is determined to use his experience to raise awareness about organ donation and the importance of early detection in fighting cancer.

As he looks ahead to the future, Jackson plans to continue advocating for organ transplant initiatives and hopes to inspire others with his story of survival. With a newfound passion for helping others, he is committed to making a difference in the lives of those facing similar challenges.