Sam Vanderpump, son of reality TV star Lisa Vanderpump, and his fiancée Anca have shared an emotional update about their pregnancy journey, revealing their unborn daughter has been diagnosed with a rare liver condition.
The couple, who announced their engagement earlier this year, received the devastating news during their 20-week scan that their baby has biliary atresia, a serious liver disorder that affects bile ducts.
A Father's Protective Instinct
"My first thought was, 'How do I protect her? How do I protect Anca?'" Sam revealed in an exclusive interview. The 28-year-old restaurant owner described the moment they received the diagnosis as "the longest 30 seconds of my life."
Rather than being consumed by fear, the couple has chosen to face the challenge head-on, educating themselves about the condition and preparing for the medical journey ahead.
Understanding Biliary Atresia
Biliary atresia is a rare condition affecting approximately 1 in 15,000 newborns in the UK. The disorder involves blocked or damaged bile ducts, preventing bile from flowing from the liver to the small intestine.
Without treatment, the condition can lead to liver damage and other serious complications. Most babies with biliary atresia require surgery shortly after birth to create new bile ducts.
A United Front
Anca, who is due to give birth in February, has shown remarkable strength throughout the pregnancy. "She's been so strong," Sam said proudly. "We're in this together, and we'll get through this together."
The couple has already begun connecting with other families who have experienced similar challenges, building a support network for the road ahead.
Family Support System
Sam's famous mother, Lisa Vanderpump, and the entire family have rallied around the couple. "Mum has been incredible," Sam shared. "She's been there every step of the way, offering support and love."
The Vanderpump family's experience with medical challenges isn't new - Sam's sister, Pandora, underwent heart surgery as a child, giving the family perspective on navigating serious health issues.
As they prepare for their daughter's arrival, Sam and Anca remain focused on the joy of becoming parents while being practical about the medical care their daughter will need.
"We're scared, of course," Sam admitted. "But we're also filled with hope and determination to give our daughter the best life possible."
