Stories from the Band

It was in 1999 that I discovered I had chronic hepatitis C. I went to the doctor because I just didn't have any energy. Like many people with chronic hepatitis C, I lived for decades without knowing I had the disease. I didn't have any symptoms aside from being tired. My doctor tested my blood, and that's when I learned my diagnosis. Looking back, I think I probably got it in my 20s. How I got it, I'll never be able to say for sure, but I do know it was a long time before I finally knew.

I didn't know much about hepatitis at first, but I learned a lot in just a short time.

In the beginning, I didn't tell anyone because I wasn't sure what people would think, but then I decided to share it with my friends and family. I was surprised and grateful for all the support I received. It was amazing to me how many people came forward to say that they had chronic hepatitis C, too. That was when I realized how important it was to keep sharing my story.

Thanks to the encouragement and support I got from my friends, family and band, I took the next step and talked to my doctor about my options. That step was a big one, but I'm glad I made it.

I'm past wondering what would have happened if I hadn't contracted chronic hepatitis C. But, I still wonder what would have happened if I'd taken action sooner. Everyone's story is different. For me, I waited to get treated. When I finally was treated, my treatment failed, and I ultimately had to have a liver transplant. And, although I am grateful to have a new liver, I wish things hadn't gotten to that point.

I know what it's like to receive a chronic hepatitis C diagnosis, to not know what it will mean for your future, to feel afraid to tell other people. I've been there. But I also know that with the support of friends and family and your healthcare provider, you can get through it. So don't wait – doing nothing is not an option. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider today about your options.