Sam Vanderpump, known for his appearances onMade in Chelsea, recently revealed a harrowing truth: he was on the brink of death before receiving critical medical attention. The reality star is now facing a diagnosis of end-stage liver disease, a condition that has fundamentally altered his outlook on life.
The journey began with a childhood diagnosis of a genetic liver condition at the age of four. While doctors offered reassurance over the years, suggesting annual check-ups were sufficient, a sudden turn last year brought everything into sharp focus. What initially seemed like a severe flu quickly escalated into a life-threatening crisis.
Sam recounted a period of intense illness, collapsing after Christmas shopping and sleeping for two days straight. His fiancée, Alice Yaxley, recognized the severity of his condition and rushed him to the hospital, where doctors discovered his organs were rapidly failing. The situation was dire; a mere 24-hour delay in seeking treatment could have proven fatal.
Despite initial recovery following aggressive antibiotic treatment – described as “using an industrial cleaner” – Sam experienced several reinfections. It wasn’t until a recent notification on the NHS app, recommending a liver transplant assessment, that the full gravity of his condition became clear. The news was a shock, especially given his recent feeling of wellness.
Doctors delivered a stark prognosis: without a transplant, his life expectancy is measured in years. However, a successful transplant offers the promise of a normal, healthy future. Sam, ever the optimist, views this as an opportunity to use his platform for a greater purpose.
He emphasizes the critical need for organ donation, highlighting the fact that 8,000 people in the UK are currently awaiting life-saving transplants. He points out the statistical likelihood of needing an organ versus donating one, urging viewers to consider becoming donors.
The conversation resonated deeply with Dr. Nighat Arif, who shared her personal experience with liver disease. Her son was diagnosed at six weeks old and underwent a life-saving transplant at eleven months, offering a powerful testament to the impact of organ donation.
Sam bravely shared his diagnosis with his friend Ollie Locke onMade in Chelsea, expressing a hopeful outlook despite the challenges ahead. He remains focused on maintaining his health while awaiting a potential transplant, acknowledging that the timeline is uncertain and dependent on the needs of those in more critical condition.
Reflecting on his recent health scare, Sam admitted to struggling with health anxiety but remains determined to face the future with courage and positivity. He described the terror of believing he was going to die, recalling being told he was the sickest patient on the ward – a stark reminder of the fragility of life.
