LIVER CENTER
Jessica
Diagnosed at 9, Steatohepatitis

Jessica has always been precocious and mature beyond her years. So when she found out she had the liver condition steatohepatitis, she had some definite ideas about what she would and would not tolerate.

Her mother, Robin, says Jessica felt fine when they visited the pediatrician for an annual well-child check up. But Jessica’s liver function tests were elevated, so he suggested they visit Texas Children’s. At the hospital, Jessica and Robin met Dr. Ruben Quiros, who did more blood work and a liver biopsy.

“From the beginning, Jessica has been more like an adult than a child,” Robin says. “Before we went to Texas Children’s, she said ‘It’s my body, and I’ll do what I want.’”

But, as soon as Jessica met Quiros, she was disarmed and became one of his biggest fans.

“He walked in and told her straight up what was going on and what she needed to do,” Robin says. “He didn’t talk down to her – he spoke to her like an adult – and she respected him for that.”

To help control the progression of her condition, the 9-year-old second-grader – and the rest of the family – are beginning to make some changes. Jessica is working hard at losing weight by watching portion sizes and cutting out fast food. Later this year, they plan to start Texas Children’s Weigh of Life program. It’s not always easy, but Jessica and her family are dedicated.

“We’re changing – slowly but surely,” says Robin. “Sometimes Jessica gets a little tired of the dieting, but she keeps going.”

Jessica is a budding artist and recently won a painting competition at the Houston rodeo that she entered through her school. She has always liked to play outside, her mom says, but she’s working on stepping up the physical activity.

“She’s started playing tennis,” Robin says, “and she got a scooter for her birthday. We are going to the park more often to get exercise.”

And her hard work is paying off. Despite all the temptations of the Christmas holidays, Jessica lost two pounds – and grew almost five inches between check ups. Although Jessica was initially wary, she has come to look forward to her visits to Texas Children’s and talks with Quiros.

“We believe in Texas Children’s,” Robin says. “Jessica loves to go see Dr. Quiros – she thinks he’s cool.”