A PARTINGTON man, who suffered from a rare liver disease, is counting his lucky stars after receiving a life-saving transplant.

Dr Ben McDermott, 29, suffered from primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) over the past seven years and without the vital operation, the chronic disease would have taken his life.

The research scientist was even told that his liver would have only have lasted another six months when it was removed on April 30 this year. Now, almost seven months since his transplant, he feels lucky to be alive.

He said: “Before, I never thought about life beyond the transplant. Now I can think about the rest of my life.” Ben, who lives with his wife Sarah, said that his stomach flipped when he received the life-changing call that a donor had been found. He had been on the waiting list for five months and commends the PSC Support Group for keeping him focused throughout the difficult times. Ben has worked endlessly over the past year to raise money for the charity, which funds research into PSC and provides support for sufferers.

He said: “The support group lets you know that you are not alone and that there is light at the end of what seems like a very dark tunnel.” Ben has raised over £5,700 through events such as a team triathlon and a 24-hour ride-a-thon at Carrington Riding Centre, and took part in both events before his transplant, despite his ill-health.

He wished to thank his wife, family, friends, St. James University Hospital and staff and students at the University of Liverpool's Leahurst campus for their continued support and to express heartfelt thanks to the donor’s family.

He added: “They saved my life.

My scar reminds me every day of what they did for me.” To find out more visit http://mypscstory-ben.moonfruit.com To sign the organ register visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk/ukt/how_to_become_a_donor/