Ella, an AIHA Mentorship Program mentee and AIH patient, shares her experience as a mentee in the AIHA Mentorship Program and its impact on her as a patient. The AIHA Mentorship Program connects patients with other patients and caregivers with other caregivers to provide one-on-one support. The program, open to all patients ages 5+ and caregivers, allows participants to share experiences, learn from one another, and provide emotional support. Visit the following link if you’re interested in participating in the mentorship program: https://aihep.org/mentorship-program/
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your experience with AIH.
Hi, I’m Ella. I’m an engineer in my late twenties, married, and passionate about reading books, traveling, and working out. About three years ago, I was diagnosed with AIH. It was a long journey—nearly a decade of feeling tired, nauseous, and fatigued, along with high ALT and AST levels. Thankfully, one doctor finally took a closer look at my abnormal blood work and realized something was off. After extensive testing and a biopsy, I received the diagnosis.
Why did you choose to participate in the AIHA Mentorship Program?
I decided to join the AIHA Mentorship Program because I felt lonely during my diagnosis and early treatment. AIH is rare, so there wasn’t much information out there. About two years in, I found the AIHA site, which was a game-changer with all the helpful info. Then, one day, I received an email about the mentorship program, and it felt like the perfect fit. I ended up with an amazing mentor who supported me through the ups and downs with compassion, great advice, and a silent understanding that made all the difference.
Tell us about how you and your mentor communicate.
My mentor and I usually communicate through messages. Since we’re in different time zones, this way we can respond whenever it’s convenient for us.
How has the AIHA Mentorship Program helped you in your journey with AIH?
The AIHA Mentorship Program has been a huge help in my journey with AIH. Having a mentor who truly understands what I’m going through has made a world of difference. My mentor provided me with valuable advice, emotional support, and practical tips from her own experience! It’s comforting to have someone who’s been through similar experiences and can offer guidance and encouragement along the way, especially when spirits might be low.
Would you encourage others to participate in the AIHA Mentorship Program? If so, why?
Absolutely YES!!! I would encourage others to participate in the AIHA Mentorship Program. Having a mentor who understands the challenges of living with AIH can be incredibly supportive and empowering. It’s a great way to gain valuable insights, practical advice, and emotional support from someone who has been there and truly gets it. Plus, it helps build a sense of community, which is so important when dealing with a rare condition.
Is there anything else you would like to add or say about the AIHA Mentorship Program?
To me that was a game changer truly! Thank you for creating this program and I hope others would find this helpful and empowering too! Also, for anyone reading this, don’t give up! During diagnosis and treatment, I found love, finished my degrees and started working out! I know at times it seems impossible; it will be a roller coaster – but all is possible!
Mentors and mentees do not have a business relationship with the Autoimmune Hepatitis Association (AIHA) nor are they agents thereof or endorsed explicitly by the AIHA. The AIHA accepts no responsibility for any liability, costs, or encumbrance incurred by mentors or mentees. Mentors and mentees, while not affiliates of the AIHA, should still be mindful that any information or general advice provided to members does not constitute medical or legal advice and such input should always be solicited from professionals.
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