• President Trump has nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz, MD, JD, MPH, to serve as the next Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. Schwartz, who served as President Trump's Deputy Surgeon General during his first term, is a Coast Guard rear admiral. She received her medical degree from Brown University, and she holds a law degree from the University of Maryland. A Senate confirmation hearing has not been scheduled at this time. ALF will continue to monitor for updates.

• Recently, President Trump nominated Dr. Nicole Saphier, MD for the role of U.S. surgeon general. Dr. Saphier is the director of breast imaging at Memorial Sloan Kettering Monmouth in New Jersey. Dr. Saphier earned her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in Barbados and completed a fellowship at the Mayo Clinic. A Senate confirmation hearing has not been scheduled at this time, but ALF will continue to monitor for updates.

• The Senate and House of Representatives are currently in recess. The Senate returns on May 11^th while the House returns on May12th.

The post Weekly Healthcare Policy Round-Up appeared first on American Liver Foundation.

• The American Liver Foundation’s (ALF) Liver Life Advocacy Summit was held in Washington, D.C. on April 21-22, 2026, bringing together patients, caregivers, and families from across the country to champion ALF’s 2026 legislative priorities.
• ALF advocates held more than 80 meetings with Members of Congress and their staff on Capitol Hill to urge lawmakers to prioritize liver health. Advocates called on lawmakers to support ALF’s legislative priorities including, the Living Donor Protection Act, Safe Step Act, HELP Copays Act, Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, Ian Kalvinskas Pediatric Liver Cancer Early Detection and Screening Act, and the Expanding Support for Living Donors Act. Advocates also discussed with policymakers the critical need for funding increases at the National Institutes of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention liver disease programs. You can take action for liver patients today.
• ALF hosted a Congressional dinner following ALF Advocate meetings on Capitol Hill. Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE) and Congressman Jim Costa (D-CA) who have both made significant contributions to liver health and advocated relentlessly to advance priorities that help those suffering from liver disease were both honored.
• Congressman Costa (D-CA) received ALF’s Congressional Champion Award Wednesday evening for his dedication to helping pediatric liver patients, recently he introduced the Ian Kalvinskas Pediatric Liver Cancer Early Detection and Screening Act. Congressman Costa’s commitment to promoting legislation and policies that positively affect individuals living with liver cancer is essential in the fight against liver disease. ALF was honored to be joined by Congressman Costa on Wednesday evening along with Adrian and Susan Kalvinskas who presented the award to Congressman Costa, the legislation is named in honor of their son Ian, who tragically died from pediatric liver cancer in June.
• Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE) was also recognized with the ALF Congressional Champion Award for his long-standing commitment to liver patients. As a lead sponsor of the Living Donor Protection Act, Congressman Bacon has been a tireless advocate for policies that reduce barriers for living organ donors and provide vital protections for transplant patients. His leadership has helped bring national attention to the needs of those navigating liver disease and transplantation. ALF was honored to be joined by Congressman Bacon for the awards ceremony and dinner
• Evelyn Rivera of New Mexico received the Liver Life Advocate Award for her long-standing advocacy and dedication to supporting liver patients. A two-time liver transplant recipient and cancer survivor, Evelyn has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about liver disease, advance legislation and research for liver patients, and support fellow patients as a peer mentor.
• Manny Martinez of California was presented with the Rising Advocate Award for his outstanding efforts as a new ALF Advocacy Ambassador. Manny hit the ground running with ALF, actively participating in multiple Congressional meetings, serving as a peer mentor, and sharing his journey with liver disease with passion and purpose. His eagerness to raise awareness and his commitment to liver patients is not only inspiring but offers hope to all liver patients.
• Ruthanne Leishman of Washington state was presented with the Transplant Innovator Award. Ruthanne has been a passionate advocate for living donor liver transplant both personally on behalf of her late sister and professionally. Ruthanne played a significant role in helping ALF create the Living Donor Network, which connects non-directed liver donors to transplant centers nationwide.

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"ALF is grateful for the continued support of Congressman Costa and Congressman Bacon as we bring heightened awareness to Capitol Hill regarding legislative policies that help liver disease patients and their families,” said Lorraine Stiehl, CEO, American Liver Foundation (ALF) and caregiver to a transplant recipient. “It was an honor having both Congressman Costa and Congressman Bacon attend our evening dinner and celebration to recognize their critical work on behalf of liver patients everywhere.”

Congressman Costa (D-CA) currently serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and was honored with ALF’s prestigious Congressional Champion Award forhis dedication to helping children by introducing the Ian Kalvinskas Pediatric Liver Cancer Early Detection and Screening Act. This legislation directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study efforts to improve early detection and treatment of pediatric liver tumors, trends in pediatric liver-transplant wait-list mortality, and the cost effectiveness of adding simple tools. It also establishes a national education initiative to provide families with plain language information on early warning signs as well as options and safety of living liver donation. Adrian and Susan Kalvinskas, parents of the late Ian Kalvinskas, presented the award to Congressman Costa who gave an emotional and heartfelt speech. Learn more about Ian’s story in this video and join us in supporting this important legislation at https://alf.social/livercanceract.

Congressman Bacon (R-NE) currently serves on the House Agriculture Committee and the House Armed Services Committee as Chairman of the Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation subcommittee and was also honored with ALF’s prestigious Congressional Champion Award for his long-standing commitment to advancing living donor transplantation and protecting liver donors through the reintroduction of the Living Donor Protection Act. This legislation ensures living donors do not face discrimination from insurance companies. The bill also specifies that recovery from organ-donation surgery constitutes a serious health condition that entitles eligible employees to job-protected medical leave. Congressman Bacon shared a heartfelt tribute to those in his life who have been given a second chance at life thanks to living donation.

During the Liver Life Advocacy Summit, ALF also recognized Ruthanne Leishman with the Transplant Innovator Award for her tireless work to help ALF establish our Living Donor Network. Additionally, two ALF advocates – Evelyn Rivera and Manny Martinez – were acknowledged for their outstanding commitment to advancing liver health.

The Liver Life Advocate Award was presented to New Mexico resident and ALF advocate Evelyn Rivera for her unwavering commitment to advancing liver health. As a dedicated participant of ALF’s Lend Your Voice campaign, Evelyn has driven meaningful change at both the federal and state levels championing patient access in New Mexico and beyond. She has demonstrated extraordinary resilience as a liver cancer survivor who has undergone two liver transplants – first in 2011 and again in 2015. Earlier this year, she served as the featured speaker at ALF’s Liver Cancer Briefing in Washington, D.C. where she brought the patient voice directly to policymakers. She’s a compassionate peer mentor and devoted leader always willing to use her voice to advocate on behalf of liver patients.

            Liver Life Advocate and California resident Manny Martinez was presented with ALF’s Rising Advocate Award for his willingness to share his personal story and his hard work as an ALF Lend Your Voice participant who sent over 30 letters to Congress on behalf of liver patients. Manny is passionate about reaching out to the Hispanic community to raise awareness about metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and he encourages everyone to get screened. He leads by example and is always willing to step in and lend a hand with genuine commitment to others.

Washington state resident Ruthanne Leishman has been a passionate advocate for living donor liver transplant for decades both personally on behalf of her late sister and professionally. She played an instrumental role in helping ALF create the first-ever Living Donor Network which connects individuals who wish to donate part of their liver with transplant centers nationwide to help children and adults in need. ALF is proud to recognize her with the Transplant Innovator Award.

During the Liver Life Advocacy Summit, advocates met with their elected officials on Capitol Hill and urged Congress to implement ALF’s legislative priorities:

• Support Living Donors: Advance the Living Donor Protection Act and Expand Support for Living Organ Donors Act to protect donors and reduce financial barriers
• Ensure Patient Access: Pass the Safe Step Act, Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, and HELP Copays Act to improve access and affordability
• Pediatric Screening: Advance the Ian Kalvinskas Pediatric Liver Cancer Early Detection and Screening Act for earlier diagnosis
• Center for Disease Control Efforts: Strengthen liver disease surveillance and prevention

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Ruthanne, Manny and Evelyn for their incredible work on behalf of liver patients and their families. And I’m so proud of all of our outstanding Liver Life Advocates who joined us for our advocacy summit to share their personal liver disease journey and make a difference in the lives of those living with liver disease,” added Ms. Stiehl.

Take action for liver disease by becoming a Liver Life Advocate. Learn more at liverfoundation.org/advocacy.

About the American Liver Foundation

American Liver Foundation (ALF) is a national community of patients, caregivers and medical professionals dedicated to helping people improve their liver health. Providing guidance and life-saving resources, we are a beacon for the 100 million Americans affected by liver disease. We advocate for patients and families, fund medical research, and educate the public about liver wellness and disease prevention. We bring people together through our educational programs and events and create a network of support that lasts a lifetime. ALF is the largest organization focused on all liver diseases and the trusted voice for patients and families living with liver disease. Celebrating 50 years of impact, leading the next 50 years forward. For more information, please visit www.liverfoundation.org or call: 1.800.GO.LIVER (800-465-4837).

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As the Boston Athletic Association’s first official charity team, ALF has a long history in Boston. Since 1989, the American Liver Foundation Marathon Team has made a dramatic impact on the foundation’s mission to improve liver health.

Members of Team ALF were all motivated to participate in the Boston Marathon due to very personal connections to liver disease. Each participant has committed to fundraising efforts that will directly support ALF’s mission to improve the lives of those living with some form of liver disease.

ALF’s 2026 National LIVEr Champion Damian Delaney will be running in the Boston Marathon to raise awareness about the importance of living liver donation. Priest, teacher, marathoner, and non‑directed living donor, Damian Delaney shows what’s possible when compassion and endurance come together. Damian Delaney stated, “It’s an amazing feeling to know that you’re giving another person the gift of health, which is priceless. My deepest desire now is to inspire others to consider donating part of their liver to help save the lives of those in need.” Watch Damian’s inspiring video and learn more about becoming a non-directed living donor.

Additional Team ALF Members include:

• Gabrielle Barnes – Gabrielle runs for her stepdad, Andrew, who was diagnosed with stage 4 alcohol-associated liver disease and received a lifesaving transplant in 2024.
• Elizabeth Guertin – Participates in the marathon because she was born with a rare liver disease called biliary atresia and was diagnosed at eight weeks old. Currently, she on the inactive transplant list.
• Fred & Kristin Kostecki—They run in honor of their daughter Abigail, who was diagnosed with a rare liver disease at the age of 4. Fred also serves on ALF’s board of directors.
• Sophie Long-- Sophie runs for Caitlin, a fellow runner and mom who urgently needed a liver transplant and bravely turned to Facebook for help. A stranger at the time, Sophie felt compelled to answer the call and donated part of her liver in February 2021. 
• Amanda McMahon – Runs in honor of her cousin who was diagnosed with biliary atresia and passed away due to complications of the liver.
• Sarah, Emily and Keith Tully – Sisters Sarah and Emily run with their father, Keith, a PSC patient and liver transplant recipient.
• Leanna Shea – Runs to honor her father who had two lifesaving transplants. He passed away from liver cancer 34 years post-transplant.

”We’re so grateful to all of our runners who are dedicated advocates raising awareness about liver disease through their participation in the Boston Marathon,” said Lorraine Stiehl, Chief Executive Officer, American Liver Foundation. “Each year our runners illustrate their commitment to our cause and are perfect examples of the endurance and strength needed to participant in this marathon.”

Team ALF members receive dedicated training support, fundraising guidance, and the opportunity to be part of a nationwide movement fighting liver disease. The funds raised will help ALF sustain vital programs such as Think Liver Think Life, a national public health campaign to educate Americans on their risk for liver disease, ALF’s Living Donor Network, the first-ever database for non-directed living donors, Bili the Brave, an initiative to help children and families affected by biliary atresia (BA), Caring Connections, an ALF peer to peer support program, and ALF Advocacy efforts in Washington, DC that help increase federal funding for policies that improve the lives of those living with liver disease.

Learn more about ALF’s 2026 full Boston Marathon team and the foundation’s endurance program, Liver Life Challenge. Cheer on Team ALF along the marathon route and consider donating to help runners reach their fundraising goals in support their 26.2 mile run at: https://www.givengain.com/campaign/alfboston2026.

For more information about liver disease, please visit www.liverfoundation.org.

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"ALF has a passionate community of Liver Life Advocates dedicated to making a difference for those living with liver disease," said Lorraine Stiehl, Chief Executive Officer of American Liver Foundation. "Through our Liver Life Advocacy Summit, we aim to amplify the voices of patients and work with legislators to advance meaningful policies to improve patient outcomes and save lives."

ALF’s Liver Life Advocates will urge Congress to do the following:

• Support Living Donors: Advance the Living Donor Protection Act and the Expanding Support for Living Organ Donors Act to protect donors and reduce financial barriers
• Ensure Patient Access: Pass the Safe Step Act, Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, and HELP Copays Act to improve access and affordability
• Pediatric Screening: Advance the Ian Kalvinskas Pediatric Liver Cancer Early Detection and Screening Act for earlier diagnosis
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Efforts: Conduct a formal Public Health Liver Disease Action Plan for the prevention and control of liver disease and dedicate funding specifically for the education, awareness, surveillance, and screening of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

On April 21^st, advocates will participate in advocacy training and education, followed by a Welcome Dinner which includes keynote speaker, Udeme Ekong, MD, MPH, FAASLD, Medstar Health/Georgetown University and ALF Board Member. On April 22^nd, ALF’s Liver Life Advocates will head to Capitol Hill to meet with lawmakers and urge them to support ALF’s legislative priorities. ALF will host a Congressional dinner that evening to honor Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE) and Congressman Jim Costa (D-CA) who have both made extraordinary contributions to liver health and advocated relentlessly to advance priorities that help those suffering from liver disease. Awards will also be presented to two outstanding advocates for their volunteer work in advancing liver health.

Take action for liver disease by becoming a Liver Life Advocate. Learn more: liverfoundation.org/advocacy.

About the American Liver Foundation

American Liver Foundation (ALF) is a national community of patients, caregivers and medical professionals dedicated to helping people improve their liver health. Providing guidance and life-saving resources, we are a beacon for the 100 million Americans affected by liver disease. We advocate for patients and families, fund medical research, and educate the public about liver wellness and disease prevention. We bring people together through our educational programs and events and create a network of support that lasts a lifetime. ALF is the largest organization focused on all liver diseases and the trusted voice for patients and families living with liver disease. Celebrating 50 years of impact, leading the next 50 years forward. For more information, please visit www.liverfoundation.org or call: 1.800.GO.LIVER (800-465-4837).

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Rayyan and Aaliyan are both undergraduate students at UT Dallas and researchers at UT Southwestern, united by a shared passion for pursuing careers in medicine. This commitment is rooted not only in their academic interests but also in a personal connection to liver disease. The brothers have a close relative who was diagnosed with liver cancer, an experience that gave them firsthand insight into how devastating and silent liver disease can be for patients and their families. “That experience shaped our perspective and gave us a shared sense of purpose,” said Rayyan. “Working together has strengthened our bond and driven us to raise awareness, support those impacted, and contribute to better outcomes through research and advocacy. It’s inspiring to stand beside someone who understands this journey so closely, and we’re grateful to be part of a community committed to improving liver health and making a lasting difference.”

Thank you, Rayyan and Aaliyan, for standing with us in the fight against liver disease and joining us at the Liver Life Advocacy Summit™ in Washington, D.C., April 21-23. We truly admire your passion and dedication to expanding and strengthening liver disease prevention efforts. Together, we can work towards our vision of a world without liver disease. Visit liverfoundation.org to learn more about liver disease, ways to get involved, and how to become a Liver Life Advocate. 

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American Liver Foundation (ALF) is excited to once again team up with James Beard Award-winning Chef Christopher Gross of Christopher’s for FLAVORS, a national culinary event, taking place on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at the Arizona Biltmore, 2400 E. Missouri, in Phoenix, Arizona.

FLAVORS is a unique dining experience where guests are treated to a multi-course dinner prepared tableside by some of Arizona’s most esteemed chefs. Founded in 1991 by culinary expert Chef Christopher Gross, this event has grown into a national phenomenon. The evening brings together culinary masters to support ALF's mission of promoting education, advocacy, support services, resources, and research for the prevention, treatment, and cure of liver diseases.

"FLAVORS is an evening that really brings people together, so I’m always excited to share this wonderful event with world-renowned chefs who are committed to serving our community and supporting the noble cause of helping 100 million Americans living with liver disease,” said Chef Christopher Gross. “I cherish the camaraderie among fellow chefs as well as connecting with guests through this intimate, personalized experience we provide at each table.”

             Here’s the 2026 stellar lineup featuring the following local culinary talents:

• Chef Matt Carter – Owner/Chef of The Mission ~ Fat Ox ~ Zinc Bistro
• Chef Kemar Durfield – Executive Chef of the Arizona Biltmore
• Chef Sara Garrant – Executive Chef of Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak
• Chef Christopher Gross (Culinary Chair and FLAVORS Founder)– Chef/Director of Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion
• Chef Gregory James – Executive Chef of the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale
• Chef Russell LaCasce - Executive Chef of Hotel Valley Ho
• Chef Blake Luecke – Executive Chef of Uchi Scottsdale
• Chef James Porter – Owner/Director of TERRA Farm + Manor
• Chef Dan Perry – Chef de Cuisine of Pasea Hotel & Spa and Denu Hotel and Spa

“Each year we’re so delighted to host FLAVORS with our founder, Chef Christopher,” said Lorraine Stiehl, Chief Executive Officer of American Liver Foundation. “We are so appreciative of all the chefs included this year as they give of their time and talents to make this unique fine dining experience a night to remember while also supporting millions of Americans living with some form of liver disease. The funds raised through national events like FLAVORS help us to fund cutting edge research, educate communities, and create critical initiatives and programs that support those affected by liver disease.”

The evening will commence with a cocktail reception from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by an exquisite five-course fine dining experience at the Arizona Biltmore where each chef will craft a personalized menu for their table, offering guests an intimate and interactive culinary journey.

Learn more about FLAVORS, a national culinary event, by visiting alfflavors.org. For more information regarding sponsorship opportunities, please contact Mary Stenger at mstenger@liverfoundation.org.

About the American Liver Foundation

American Liver Foundation (ALF) is a national community of patients, caregivers and medical professionals dedicated to helping people improve their liver health. Providing guidance and life-saving resources, we are a beacon for the 100 million Americans affected by liver disease. We advocate for patients and families, fund medical research, and educate the public about liver wellness and disease prevention. We bring people together through our educational programs and events and create a network of support that lasts a lifetime. ALF is the largest organization focused on all liver diseases and the trusted voice for patients and families living with liver disease. Celebrating 50 years of impact, leading the next 50 years forward. For more information, please visit www.liverfoundation.org or call: 1.800.GO.LIVER (800-465-4837).

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April is officially recognized as National Donate Life Month, a time when American Liver Foundation (ALF) joins the nation in honoring those willing to give the gift of life through organ donation. With nearly 9,000 people in America waiting for a liver transplant, the need for living donors is tremendous. ALF’s Living Donor Network was created to address this critical need and was launched in 2025, making it the first-ever non-directed liver donor database available to individuals willing to donate part of their liver with transplant centers nationwide. ALF continually builds awareness regarding the ongoing need for lifesaving liver transplants because living donor liver transplants offer a solution for those in need.

“Although we celebrate National Donate Life Month every year, ALF works hard each and every day to put a spotlight on the need for liver organ donation and the importance of lifesaving living donor liver transplants; we’re proud to be part of the solution,” said Lorraine Stiehl, CEO of American Liver Foundation and a caregiver for a transplant recipient. “ALF’s Living Donor Network, ongoing educational webinars, the resource center, and numerous support groups ensure that liver patients, their families and those who care for them have the information and encouragement needed throughout their liver transplant journey.”

ALF’s Living Donor Network can help increase the number of living donor liver transplants for U.S. adults and children as well as eliminate the pediatric liver candidate waitlist. The Network is voluntary and open to anyone who would like to become a non-directed liver donor. A non-directed liver donor, formerly called altruistic donors, are individuals willing to give a portion of their liver to someone in need that they do not know. Those interested must be 18 years of age or older and reside in the U.S. Learn more and sign up at ALF Living Donor Network.

During the month of April and throughout the year, patients, caregivers and families can participate in the following educational opportunities and support groups:

• Sharing the Journey, an ALF support network for Caregivers takes place on Thursday, April 2 from 6:30 to 8 pm. ET. Caregivers have many responsibilities that can lead to feelings of stress, sadness, isolation, and fatigue. This program provides the resources and support needed so caregivers can cope with the challenges of caregiving. All sessions are facilitated by a licensed social worker. You must be 18 or older to participate in this FREE support network that meets via Zoom on the first Thursday of each month.
• Sharing the Journey, an ALF support network for Patients takes place on Thursday, April 9 from 1 to 2:30 pm. ET. ALF offers those who have been diagnosed with liver disease as well as those awaiting a liver transplant with a support network to share their unique journey. Having a connection with others going through exactly what you’re experiencing can reduce your feelings of isolation and help you find ways to cope. All sessions are facilitated by a licensed social worker. You must be 18 or older to participate in this FREE support network that meets via Zoom on the second Thursday of each month.
• The 2026 ReBirthday Celebration is on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11 am ET and will honor liver transplant recipients as they celebrate the gift of life and renewed health during National Donate Life Month. Renowned hepatologist Dr. Sudha Kodali of Houston Methodist will be the keynote speaker sharing her insights and encouragement to transplant recipients, living donors, caregivers, individuals waiting for a transplant and the families and friends who support them. This celebration will be held via Zoom. To learn more and register, go to: liverfoundation.org/rebirthday. 
• Sharing the Journey, an ALF support network for Liver Transplant Recipients takes place on Thursday, April 16 from 1 to 2:30 pm. ET. This group meets to allow transplant recipients an opportunity to connect with those who share their unique experiences with organ donation. They get a chance to share their thoughts and concerns while bonding with others on the same journey. Please note that there is no medical advice or counseling during any of these sessions, but each session will be facilitated by a licensed social worker. You must be 18 or older to participate in this FREE support network that meets via Zoom on the third Thursday of each month.
• ALF also offers a Living Donor Liver Transplant Information Center that provides free resources for those seeking a living donor as well as those who are considering becoming organ donors. The Center comes with a complete toolkit developed for people who’ve been evaluated and approved as a liver transplant candidate, been placed on the national transplant waiting list, and have decided to pursue the option of finding a living donor. Living donor liver transplant can be a lifesaving alternative to waiting on the transplant list. It can save you valuable time, reduce the risk of your liver condition getting worse, and result in improved long-term outcomes. The toolkit includes helpful tips to find a transplant center, educational materials, informative videos, and everything you’ll need to undertake the process of finding a living donor.

ALF invites everyone to participate in National Donate Life Month by attending events, sharing stories, and considering registering as an organ donor. By coming together, we can save lives, honor the legacy of organ donors, and offer hope to those waiting for a transplant.

For more information about ALF, go to www.liverfoundation.org and for more details regarding organ donation, go to www.liverfoundation.org/livingdonor.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding liver disease, please call our FREE helpline at 1.800.GO.LIVER (800.465.4837).

About the American Liver Foundation

American Liver Foundation (ALF) is a national community of patients, caregivers and medical professionals dedicated to helping people improve their liver health. Providing guidance and life-saving resources, we are a beacon for the 100 million Americans affected by liver disease. We advocate for patients and families, fund medical research, and educate the public about liver wellness and disease prevention. We bring people together through our educational programs and events and create a network of support that lasts a lifetime. ALF is the largest organization focused on all liver diseases and the trusted voice for patients and families living with liver disease. Celebrating 50 years of impact, leading the next 50 years forward. For more information, please visit www.liverfoundation.org or call: 1.800.GO.LIVER (800-465-4837).

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“I’m proud to have had the privilege to lead ALF through a period of unprecedented growth where we funded an historic $1.1M in support of cutting-edge research, formed a great partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) aimed at increasing awareness of liver health through a dedicated Veterans Information Center on the ALF website, and created ALF’s Living Donor Network, the first national database for non-directed donors who wish to donate a part of their liver to transplant centers nationwide,” said Dr. Thomas.  “During my term of volunteer service, I recruited many leaders from the liver community to join ALF’s Board of Directors. We are so grateful for David’s leadership and vision as he takes the helm of ALF to lead us through these coming years offering his dedication, passion, and vision for millions of Americans living with liver disease.”  

David first became involved with ALF in 2014 after the loss of his beloved mother, Geraldine, at the age of 62, who had a brief but devastating six-week battle with late-stage metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) formerly known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). MASH is considered a silent killer because some people have no symptoms until the late stages similar to David’s mother; this disease took David’s entire family by surprise. David found a way to turn his immeasurable grief into actionable steps to raise awareness regarding liver disease and MASH by volunteering with ALF and helping to launch the Greater New York Associate Board of Young Professionals in 2017. He also founded NASH AWARE, a global blog dedicated to educating the public about Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Today, his blog reaches readers in dozens of countries each month. He is also a frequent speaker at NASH conferences, International NASH Day events and is featured regularly in ALF’s educational content. In 2022, he officially joined ALF’s National Board of Directors.

            “I’m deeply honored to be elected as the new board chair for an organization that is the leading voice in the fight against liver disease,” said David Frank. “ALF has spent 50 years funding vital research, educating patients and providers, fundraising through community and national events, and leading advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill – but with over 100 million Americans living with liver disease, we must move faster and reach further. In honor of my mother, I’m proud to help lead ALF into its next 50 years and expand our impact in tackling this urgent public health crisis.”

ALF has continued to thrive for the last five years under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Lorraine Stiehl. In addition to electing David Frank as its new board chair, the following ALF Foundation Officers were also elected: Connie Deneweth, CPA (treasurer) and Anne Doyen, Esq. (Secretary).  

For more information about ALF, go to www.liverfoundation.org and if you have any questions or concerns regarding liver disease, please call our FREE helpline at 1.800.GO.LIVER (800.465.4837).

About the American Liver Foundation

American Liver Foundation (ALF) is a national community of patients, caregivers and medical professionals dedicated to helping people improve their liver health. Providing guidance and life-saving resources, we are a beacon for the 100 million Americans affected by liver disease. We advocate for patients and families, fund medical research and educate the public about liver wellness and disease prevention. We bring people together through our educational programs and events and create a network of support that lasts a lifetime. ALF is the largest organization focused on all liver diseases and the trusted voice for patients and families living with liver disease. For more information visit www.liverfoundation.org or call: 1 800 GO LIVER (800-465-4837).

The post American Liver Foundation Elects David Frank as New Board Chair  appeared first on American Liver Foundation.

• Earlier this year, proposed changes to the childhood immunization schedule raised concerns about hepatitis B vaccination guidance. This week, a federal judge paused those changes, maintaining current recommendations while the case proceeds. For the liver community, this is especially important. The hepatitis B vaccine is a critical tool in preventing chronic liver disease and liver cancer, particularly when given at birth or in early childhood. Protecting hepatitis B vaccination remains essential to reducing the long-term burden of liver disease. ALF will continue to closely monitor these developments.
• This week, Congresswomen Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Carol Miller (R-WV), and Kim Schrier, MD (D-WA) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to provide more support to living organ donors to address the rising costs of donation. The Expanding Support for Living Donors Act would help remove financial barriers that prevent many people from donating life-saving organs. The bill would reauthorize the Living Organ Donation Reimbursement Program through 2037, increase the maximum reimbursement amount to $10,000 (adjusting for inflation), double the income eligibility to about $100,000 a year, and would require an annual report on the program.

The post Weekly Healthcare Policy Round-Up appeared first on American Liver Foundation.

“On behalf of all Americans affected by liver disease, we sincerely thank AHRQ for conducting the first-ever NAFLD report, an important step in advancing understanding of the disease’s prevalence and its impact on nearly 100 million people nationwide,” said Lorraine Stiehl, Chief Executive Officer of the American Liver Foundation. “We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) for his continued efforts to champion this report to help evaluate the prevalence, diagnoses, treatments, and complications associated with NAFLD. We look forward to a more comprehensive study from AHRQ later this year.”

The report findings revealed that NAFLD occurs predominantly as a secondary diagnosis and is typically not the primary reason for an inpatient stay in a hospital. Compared to stays in a hospital without any NAFLD diagnosis (28,530,300), there were 707,800 patients staying in a hospital with NAFLD and those patients had a primary diagnosis of septicemia, pancreatic disorders, obesity, biliary tract disease, and alcohol-related disorders among other diseases. Specifically, the report assessed the costs associated with individuals diagnosed with NAFLD, including the costs to patients, families and government programs. Information on the cost and impact on patients and the healthcare system if NAFLD is not addressed and progresses to NASH were also provided in the report.

“We would also like to thank our advocates who have been tirelessly encouraging Congress to support this report so that Americans living with NAFLD can get the help and information they need. This is a win for the liver community!”

For more information about ALF, go to www.liverfoundation.org. To find out if you’re at risk for NAFLD (MASLD) take ALF’s liver health quiz available in English at thinkliverthinklife.org/quiz and in Spanish at thinkliverthinklife.org/prueba. If you have any questions or concerns regarding liver disease, please call the free helpline at 1.800.GO.LIVER (800.465.4837).

*The nomenclature for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has recently changed to metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has been renamed to metabolic dysfunction associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Fatty liver disease is now called steatotic liver disease. Alcohol associated fatty liver disease is now called metabolic alcohol associated liver disease (metALD).

About the American Liver Foundation

American Liver Foundation (ALF) is a national community of patients, caregivers and medical professionals dedicated to helping people improve their liver health. Providing guidance and life-saving resources, we are a beacon for the 100 million Americans affected by liver disease. We advocate for patients and families, fund medical research and educate the public about liver wellness and disease prevention. We bring people together through our educational programs and events and create a network of support that lasts a lifetime. ALF is the largest organization focused on all liver diseases and the trusted voice for patients and families living with liver disease. For more information visit www.liverfoundation.org or call: 1 800 GO LIVER (800-465-4837).

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For American Liver Foundation (ALF) Liver Life Advocate®, Ashli Cook, that strength was tested early in adulthood. After moving to Nashville, TN in May 2016 to begin her first full‑time job, Ashli was navigating independence and long workdays when her body began sending warning signs. Fatigue, swelling, and unexplained weight gain slowly appeared – symptoms she initially dismissed as stress. However, by December, those changes had escalated into a medical emergency. Ashli shared, “My parents came to visit me around Christmas—they took one look at me and knew something was wrong. I had probably gained 80–100 pounds of fluid from swelling, and my skin and eyes started to turn yellow in mid‑October.”

Ashli was admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with liver failure caused by autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), a chronic disease in which the immune system attacks the liver, causing inflammation and damage. Suddenly, her life revolved around scans, blood work, and learning what it meant to live with a chronic, often invisible illness. Within months, she found herself in need of a lifesaving liver transplant and was placed on the transplant waitlist—an overwhelming reality for someone so young.

AIH is unpredictable, marked by flares and periods of remission. Ashli explained, “When I was pregnant with my daughter and son, my body went into remission. But once I hit the three‑month postpartum mark, that’s when my body went into a flare.” Over the years, Ashli has learned to listen closely to her body, adjusting her pace and expectations while managing medications, frequent appointments, and the emotional weight of living with uncertainty. Even in moments when her health was fragile and everything felt overwhelming, Ashli pressed forward, motivated by her role as a mother and her determination to be present for her family.

Today, Ashli continues to navigate life with AIH while raising her children and advocating for greater awareness. She uses her voice to educate others about autoimmune liver diseases, the realities that come with waiting for a transplant, and the importance of understanding that liver disease doesn’t always “look” the way people expect. Ashli shared, “Whenever someone hears about my health condition, they are immediately shocked after I explain everything I’ve been through. I’m hoping to make a decent impact on people.” Although Ashli remains on the transplant waitlist, she hopes to keep her native liver for as long as possible.

During a month dedicated to honoring women’s contributions and raising awareness for autoimmune diseases, Ashli’s story is a reminder that strength is not always loud. Sometimes, it’s found in persistence, advocacy, and the courage to share your story, so others feel less alone. To learn more about autoimmune liver disease, visit liverfoundation.org, or join Ashli in making a positive difference by becoming an ALF advocate or sharing your story, today.

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