Nicole Lim

At just 13 years old, I could not understand what was happening to my body. It started off with my friend pointing out that the whites of my eyes were slightly yellow. Then, I felt tired easily and my stomach cramps were getting more severe. I just followed the doctors' instructions, going for many scans and taking medications daily.

It was very challenging physically and emotionally. I had to prioritise my health over my studies. It was hard to concentrate in school and I could not go out with my friends.

No one could understand what I was going through, except my mother. My mother is my hero. She is always there for me. Her presence alone was enough to encourage me to press on. What's more amazing is, without hesitation, she went on with the medical evaluation to donate part of her liver to me.

With every rain, there comes a rainbow. Through my liver disease, we became closer and words cannot describe how grateful I am to her. Without her, I would not be here today.

With the support from Make-A-Wish Singapore, I documented my experience in a book, titled "How To Be A Good Patient". Through the book, I hope people can understand how chronic illnesses affect both the young and the old.