Finding out about hep C will help you plan for the future. Our Hep C Action Newsletter Program can help guide you through testing and treatment.
Mary Ann
I never even thought I was at risk for HCV—I’m just a regular girl. But my physical this year showed something abnormal with my liver, and my doctor tested me for HCV. I was positive. I couldn’t believe it. I know when it probably happened, but I hadn’t thought about that time since then. Now it was like my life was over. I mean, I’m 34 and single, and still looking to have a career and a family, and then…this.
At first I didn’t do anything but go into denial. But when I went back to visit my doctor, he said tests showed my liver was being damaged, even though I felt fine. He told me about HCV treatments, but when I found out they involved needles, I decided not to do it. Like I said, I felt perfectly fine, and needles just seemed too drastic.
But I kept thinking about it. I mean, I don’t want to live with HCV. I want it out of my life. I can’t ignore it or pretend I don’t have it, but I can treat it. And my doctor said that my liver was being damaged and that doing nothing could lead to liver failure.
He suggested I talk with a hepatologist—a doctor who specializes in the liver, and I finally agreed, just to hear what she had to say. She told me that over half of the people treated for HCV lower their viral load to the point where it can’t be detected.* She also showed me how easy the injection process was and helped me to become more comfortable with it. I have to admit, it was pretty hard to do the first time. But it’s only once a week, and it’s gotten easier.
I started my treatment 12 weeks ago, but already things look better. My viral load is down, and the side effects aren’t as bad as when I started. I check in with both of my doctors once a week and let them know how I’m feeling.
After I was diagnosed with HCV, I thought my life was over. But now I’m taking action and am excited again about building my career and starting a family, without worrying about HCV.
*Response to treatment may vary based on individual factors.
