FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 29, 2025
Contact:
Patrick Quinn
Director of Communications
Hillsboro R-3 School District
quinn_patrick@hsdr3.org
HILLSBORO, Mo. — October is National Liver Awareness Month, and the Hillsboro R-3 School District is honoring one of its youngest students, Nola Faye Brown, who has shown extraordinary courage in the face of a rare and life-threatening disease.
Nola was diagnosed at just two months old with Biliary Atresia, a condition in which bile ducts in the liver are blocked or damaged, preventing the proper flow of bile. This condition can cause cirrhosis and eventual liver failure. At the time of her diagnosis, Nola had already suffered 54 percent permanent liver damage and was placed on a transplant list while undergoing frequent treatments and specialist visits.
In October 2022, at only one year old, Nola was hospitalized after her mother noticed a yellow discoloration to her skin. Physicians at that time warned that she would not live beyond the age of 2.
Now three years old, Nola has far surpassed those expectations. She has been released from near-daily medical visits to only requiring annual appointments, defying all odds and inspiring everyone around her.
To celebrate Nola’s strength and perseverance, the Hillsboro R-3 School District is inviting students, staff, families and community members to wear green on Friday, Oct. 6 in recognition of National Liver Awareness Month and in honor of Nola’s journey.
“Nola is a true picture of perseverance and strength,” said district officials. “We are so proud of her and invite everyone to join us in celebrating her resilience.”
About Hillsboro R-3 School District
The Hillsboro R-3 School District serves the families of Hillsboro, Mo., and is known as a Destination School District.