Bellamy Young on Caregiving, Liver Disease & the Freedom Beyond Shame

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Actress Bellamy Young, from the hit TV shows Scandal and Brilliant Minds, joins Danielle to share the story behind her advocacy for liver disease—and the caregiving journey with her dad that began when he was diagnosed with cirrhosis and later hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Bellamy speaks candidly about shame, stigma, and the moment everything changed: realizing liver disease can affect the brain, memory, personality, and daily life.

Together, we talk about the hypervigilance of caregiving, why community matters as much as treatment, and the essential practice of asking for help before burnout. Bellamy also shares what’s changed in HE care, how speaking her story healed the 15-year-old inside her, and where caregivers can find practical support.

You’ll hear:

• What HE is—and the signs families often miss
• The toll of caregiver hypervigilance (and realistic ways to refill your tank)
• Why shame isolates—and how truth + community set us free
• Resources Bellamy points to for appointments and next steps

This conversation is a reminder: you’re not alone, and asking for help is an act of love.

Resources mentioned

• *Caregiver planning tools and questions for appointments (the Caregivers Corner Bellamy references at xifaxan.com).
• Local support, peer groups, and your doctor’s care team for HE education and follow-up.

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New episodes drop every Monday and Friday, so you can begin and end your week with a little light and a lot of hope.

For more stories, reflections, and ways to connect, visit www.DanielleElliottSmith.com or follow along on Instagram @daniellesmithtv and @HopeComestoVisit