Ben Jeszka, 32, from Leicester, has faced judgement and misconceptions about his health condition. Despite undergoing a life-saving liver transplant, he is often labelled an addict due to his rare disease.
Ben was diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a rare autoimmune liver disease, in January 2022. The condition causes scarring of the bile ducts, leading to severe health complications. In April 2024, Ben underwent a liver transplant that saved his life.
People think I'm an addict due to my health condition - I get rejected from jobs
Ben's condition has led to assumptions and misconceptions from strangers, potential employers, and even people close to him. Many believe his illness is a result of addiction, rather than the rare disease that it is.
Author's summary: Man judged as addict due to rare liver disease.