Re: Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

February 20, 2011

Wow... You say you are Irish and ish? Did you piss off a leprechaun somewhere? Holy crap I couldn't imagine any worse luck..I In any case, welcome to the group... Hopefully we can be a bit calming for you and get you some good information and just a warning, we do inject some levity around here.. sometimes at the strangest of things. Be prepared to laugh without warning!

I am so sorry to hear about your home burning down. Happy to hear no one was lost or injured severely but I can understand the loss of the memorabilia. That would kill me. And that is stuff that is impossible to put a price tag on for the insurance companies... not that they would pay anything near what it's worth but still. Pictures... stuff like that.. I am so sorry.

Then you get hit with a health crisis... Not surprising at all.. the stress of the house fire is enough to bring everything up to the surface that would have been bubbling underneath.

Words of wisdom here... FIRE THE GASTRO. If he's not talking about hep c it's because he's not familiar with it or doesn't want to be bothered with it.. and the " dying " comment, that would get him a swift kick in the shins if it was me. Just gives me the impression that he doesn't care enough if at all. See if you can find a Hepatologist.. that's a Liver Specialist.. or a gastro on steroids. They've done the normal schooling and rotations as a Gastro plus another year or so of intense training just on the liver. Good docs to have when you have hep c. They are up to date on all the treatments, side effects and protocols for hep c.

Thyroid conditions and hep c kinda go hand in hand. I have been on Synthroid since 2001. It does take a long time to get your thyroid regulated since they have to start you on such low dosages of that stuff and slowly build you up.

As far as where the hep c came from.. do me a favor and please don't sweat it. There is no telling where it came from. Could be anywhere. Dentist visits prior to the mid 1990's, ear piercings, vaccinations when we were kids, blood transfusions, sharing a razor blade or toothbrush, drug use... Don't beat yourself up on the how.. the how doesn't matter. What matters is what you do now that you know you have it.

The more I read the more your gastro is pissing me off. Jeez, don't go back to him.. he just sounds like a real piece of work.. There are gastro's who went into that specialty specifically so they wouldn't have to see many patients.. they want to spend their time in the GI lab doing upper and lower GI's. When they do see patients, they usually are pretty good at sending them packing. Sounds like you have one of those... When you have a doctor that is in it for all the right reasons and your health is important to him, it's a whole different ball game. I have gone thru a few doctors in the past 10 years.. I fired my first gastro and got a Hepatologist whom I love and who saved my life.. I fired my GP of 11 years because he didn't believe in a diagnosis but he was sure I had the disease process but wouldn't do anything about it.. found a doctor that would. Your health is important and your doctor has to be willing to take it as seriously as you do. If he doesn't there is one word.... NEXT. There are plenty of those guys out there... You just have to find the right one.

You said you didn't sleep last night... plus you mentioned fatigue and your family thinking you are lazy... Do you also have aches and pains that can be debilitating? Feeling like you've been beat with a crowbar when you wake up? Muscle and joint pain? Get back to me on this one....

I am glad you are here... welcome. Hugs,TeriOn Sun, Feb 20, 2011 at 8:01 AM, cockygal97 <scwise@...> wrote:

Hello all. I've been reading your posts and am amazed at the wealth of information you've all been in such a short period of time! I haven't known when to jump in, but, here goes anyway.

In Dec. 2009, my home burned down. Family and pets all fine but 20+ years of memorabilia gone up in flames. (Not to mention that year's Xmas gifts.)

A couple months later I began having the worst case of diarhea ever! Horrible stomach pains and swelling ensued. GP ordered blood work, ultrasound and sent me home with instructions to take a mild laxative. REALLY bad idea. Went back only to find I had hypothyroidism and HepC. Was given Synthroid, muscle relaxers, dilaudid and some anti-anxiety drug that gave me wicked weird hallucinations. Now I know what I didn't miss out on in my youth.

Was referred to Gastro guy who ordered more blood work and another ultrasound. HepC positive again, thyroid still low functioning and, ultrasound indicated cyrrhosis of the liver. Was diagnosed with alcoholic cyrrhosis with no mention of HepC contribution. I've always been a drinker. Mostly just wine. My heritage is Irish, ish and French. (A bit of German too.) I come by it honest. (I haven't had so much as a sip of wine, or any other alcohol, since all this began.)

I have no idea where the HepC came from, no idea how long I've had it and Gastro guy never speaks of it. His parting line to me is always " you're dying, I'm dying, we're all dying " . Real comforting! I've been on my own trying to find out what it all means. I've requested another referral to a Doc who has knowledge of HepC. I've been so swollen at times I can't move without horrible pain. Gastro gave me diurhetics but refuses to allow me anything for pain. (Guess I'm a potential drug addict too.) Wound up in the hospital after Xmas where I finally got some relief!

Did I mention I also have a hernia in my groin from the extra pressure? Gastro keeps telling me not to worry about it, just lay down and put my feet up. Now it's the size of a tennis ball and extremely painful after a long day. Needless to say, I have an appt. with a surgeon to get it fixed.

Whew! And that's the short of it. Anyway, I'm trying to wrap my mind around all this. I've educated myself enough to know I need a real specialist who is willing and able to help me. Now that the fog is lifting I'm starting to get a little pissed!

Thanks for listening! And thank you for this wonderful group of people! Even my family thinks I'm just lazy. Fatique? Me? Never!

I'm off to start another day after a long night without sleep.

Love to all! You have no idea how much I mean that!

February 21, 2011

Cockygal - please give us a name to use that doesn't feel so weird!! I'd rather type or Betty than Cocky LOLWell, you've certainly had a roller coaster ride for awhile now!! Wow.. The most important thing from the fire, is that everyone is OK!! Ya, I imagine that the loss of memorabilia hurts but you just have to make new ones. Or like in my family, get everyone to send pictures they had of some occasion and pretty quick, we all back up to speed.Now, it's probably been said here already; but, I'll say it anyway. On this forum, we don't ask and don't care how one contracted Hep C. Could be

because most of us would have to admit that we really don't know for sure either. Ya, the Drs were telling everybody that if they used IV Drugs even just once in their youth - bingo, that's where it came from. THEY LIED!!!In fact, when the GP tried that one on me back in 2002, he no sooner than got the words out of his mouth when I called bullshit. Shocked him some. Like I said to him, I maybe tried the IV Drugs 5 times; but, was so afraid of needles that that was enough. However, I went on for the next 15 yrs drinking alcoholically! At the time of our visit, I had been sober for 15 yrs. You know, he had to agree!! Now, most of my records have "likely from an ear piercing" on them.However, let's face it - the alcohol had already done damage before I quit and then the Hep C took over. Then, I don't think that it helped one iota that I swallowed Acetaminophen like it was candy, for my

constant acetaminophen headache.Today??? I've fought the dragon twice, 48 weeks each time and today I am Hep C free!!!

Hello all. I've been reading your posts and am amazed at the wealth of information you've all been in such a short period of time! I haven't known when to jump in, but, here goes anyway.

In Dec. 2009, my home burned down. Family and pets all fine but 20+ years of memorabilia gone up in flames. (Not to mention that year's Xmas gifts.)

A couple months later I began having the worst case of diarhea ever! Horrible stomach pains and swelling ensued. GP ordered blood work, ultrasound and sent me home with instructions to take a mild laxative. REALLY bad idea. Went back only to find I had hypothyroidism and HepC. Was given Synthroid, muscle relaxers, dilaudid and some anti-anxiety drug that gave me wicked weird hallucinations. Now I know what I didn't miss out on in my youth.

Was referred to Gastro guy who ordered more blood work and another ultrasound. HepC positive again, thyroid still low functioning and, ultrasound indicated cyrrhosis of the liver. Was diagnosed with alcoholic cyrrhosis with no mention of HepC contribution. I've always been a drinker. Mostly just wine. My heritage is Irish, ish and French. (A bit of German too.) I come by it honest. (I haven't had so much as a sip of wine, or any other alcohol, since all this began.)

I have no idea where the HepC came from, no idea how long I've had it and Gastro guy never speaks of it. His parting line to me is always "you're dying, I'm dying, we're all dying". Real comforting! I've been on my own trying to find out what it all means. I've requested another referral to a Doc who has knowledge of HepC. I've been so swollen at times I can't move without horrible pain. Gastro gave me diurhetics but refuses to allow me anything for pain. (Guess I'm a potential drug addict too.) Wound up in the hospital after Xmas where I finally got some relief!

Did I mention I also have a hernia in my groin from the extra pressure? Gastro keeps telling me not to worry about it, just lay down and put my feet up. Now it's the size of a tennis ball and extremely painful after a long day. Needless to say, I have an appt. with a surgeon to get it fixed.

Whew! And that's the short of it. Anyway, I'm trying to wrap my mind around all this. I've educated myself enough to know I need a real specialist who is willing and able to help me. Now that the fog is lifting I'm starting to get a little pissed!

Thanks for listening! And thank you for this wonderful group of people! Even my family thinks I'm just lazy. Fatique? Me? Never!

I'm off to start another day after a long night without sleep.

Love to all! You have no idea how much I mean that!

February 21, 2011

Gloria, what has or Betty done to u?

From: Gloria <gadamscan@...> Sent: Sun, February 20, 2011 10:43:07 PMSubject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Cockygal - please give us a name to use that doesn't feel so weird!! I'd rather type or Betty than Cocky LOLWell, you've certainly had a roller coaster ride for awhile now!! Wow.. The most important thing from the fire, is that everyone is OK!! Ya, I imagine that the loss of memorabilia hurts but you just have to make new ones. Or like in my family, get everyone to send pictures they had of some occasion and pretty quick, we all back up to speed.Now, it's probably been said here already; but, I'll say it anyway. On this forum, we don't ask and don't care how one contracted Hep C. Could be because most of us would have to admit that we really don't know for sure either. Ya, the Drs were telling everybody that if they used IV Drugs even

just once in their youth - bingo, that's where it came from. THEY LIED!!!In fact, when the GP tried that one on me back in 2002, he no sooner than got the words out of his mouth when I called bullshit. Shocked him some. Like I said to him, I maybe tried the IV Drugs 5 times; but, was so afraid of needles that that was enough. However, I went on for the next 15 yrs drinking alcoholically! At the time of our visit, I had been sober for 15 yrs. You know, he had to agree!! Now, most of my records have "likely from an ear piercing" on them.However, let's face it - the alcohol had already done damage before I quit and then the Hep C took over. Then, I don't think that it helped one iota that I swallowed Acetaminophen like it was candy, for my constant acetaminophen headache.Today??? I've fought the dragon twice, 48 weeks each time and today I am Hep C

free!!!

Hello all. I've been reading your posts and am amazed at the wealth of information you've all been in such a short period of time! I haven't known when to jump in, but, here goes anyway.In Dec. 2009, my home burned down. Family and pets all fine but 20+ years of memorabilia gone up in flames. (Not to mention that year's Xmas gifts.) A couple months later I began having the worst case of diarhea ever! Horrible stomach pains and swelling ensued. GP ordered blood work, ultrasound and sent me home with instructions to take a mild laxative. REALLY bad idea. Went back only to find I had hypothyroidism and HepC. Was given Synthroid, muscle relaxers, dilaudid and some anti-anxiety drug that gave me wicked weird hallucinations. Now I know what I didn't miss out on in my youth. Was referred to Gastro guy who ordered more blood work and another ultrasound. HepC positive again, thyroid still low functioning and, ultrasound indicated

cyrrhosis of the liver. Was diagnosed with alcoholic cyrrhosis with no mention of HepC contribution. I've always been a drinker. Mostly just wine. My heritage is Irish, ish and French. (A bit of German too.) I come by it honest. (I haven't had so much as a sip of wine, or any other alcohol, since all this began.)I have no idea where the HepC came from, no idea how long I've had it and Gastro guy never speaks of it. His parting line to me is always "you're dying, I'm dying, we're all dying". Real comforting! I've been on my own trying to find out what it all means. I've requested another referral to a Doc who has knowledge of HepC. I've been so swollen at times I can't move without horrible pain. Gastro gave me diurhetics but refuses to allow me anything for pain. (Guess I'm a potential drug addict too.) Wound up in the hospital after Xmas where I finally got some relief! Did I mention I also have a hernia in my groin from the extra

pressure? Gastro keeps telling me not to worry about it, just lay down and put my feet up. Now it's the size of a tennis ball and extremely painful after a long day. Needless to say, I have an appt. with a surgeon to get it fixed.Whew! And that's the short of it. Anyway, I'm trying to wrap my mind around all this. I've educated myself enough to know I need a real specialist who is willing and able to help me. Now that the fog is lifting I'm starting to get a little pissed!Thanks for listening! And thank you for this wonderful group of people! Even my family thinks I'm just lazy. Fatique? Me? Never! I'm off to start another day after a long night without sleep. Love to all! You have no idea how much I mean that!

February 21, 2011

Hello all!

Answers to your questions come easy for me now that I'm on such a desperate search for answers!

My name is Colette and I'm in SC. Thus the name Cockygal. We are hard core USCarolina fans. A lot of money and time has gone into the University and our son will be going there in the Fall. My husband, me and one of my daughters have degrees from there so far. Two more to go!

I have no idea what my genotype is. I have poor coagulation but that's the extent of my knowledge as far as labs go.

My family has not been tested but I definately want to do that in the near future. Had I known about my HepC I would have been a lot more protective of my liver and wouldn't be running behind the eight ball.

I honestly have no more info to share other than obvious symptoms which I'm sure you are all intimate with. I hope a new Gastro will shed some light on my status and help me rather than placate me. I feel like such a leper!!

S. Colette Wise

From: ludichrist2000@...Date: Sun, 20 Feb 2011 11:35:41 -0800Subject: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Hi Cockygal

Thank your for posting about yourself.

Im sorry that you have had so many problems, and lost your home.

I went thru that one too back in 1980, but I was in the house when it exploded and burst into flames.

Your doing two really good things for yourself -

- NOT drinking alcohol [with HCV, alcohol is like gasoline on a fire].

- doing your own research [you will find more info faster, than if you wait for answers to appear].

Can I ask you some questions?

- What is your first name? [if that is ok]

- What genotype are you?

- Can you tell us more about your HCV lab and test results?

- If you are married or have children - has your family been tested for HCV?

Sorry to be nosey, but the more that you tell us, the more we all will know.....errrrr, uh, duh.

LOL :-)

What I ment to say was - knowledge is power - the more we know, the better we can fight.

And you may give someone else an idea, or an answer that they can use too, so I personally encourage sharing as much as a person feels comfortable with.

One last thing - GET REAL PISSED OFF.

It will help you fight like hell to recover part of what is rightfully yours - your health.

love

don in ks

From: cockygal97 <scwise@...>Subject: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC Date: Sunday, February 20, 2011, 8:01 AM

Hello all. I've been reading your posts and am amazed at the wealth of information you've all been in such a short period of time! I haven't known when to jump in, but, here goes anyway.In Dec. 2009, my home burned down. Family and pets all fine but 20+ years of memorabilia gone up in flames. (Not to mention that year's Xmas gifts.) A couple months later I began having the worst case of diarhea ever! Horrible stomach pains and swelling ensued. GP ordered blood work, ultrasound and sent me home with instructions to take a mild laxative. REALLY bad idea. Went back only to find I had hypothyroidism and HepC. Was given Synthroid, muscle relaxers, dilaudid and some anti-anxiety drug that gave me wicked weird hallucinations. Now I know what I didn't miss out on in my youth. Was referred to Gastro guy who ordered more blood work and another ultrasound. HepC positive again, thyroid still low functioning and, ultrasound indicated cyrrhosis of the liver. Was diagnosed with alcoholic cyrrhosis with no mention of HepC contribution. I've always been a drinker. Mostly just wine. My heritage is Irish, ish and French. (A bit of German too.) I come by it honest. (I haven't had so much as a sip of wine, or any other alcohol, since all this began.)I have no idea where the HepC came from, no idea how long I've had it and Gastro guy never speaks of it. His parting line to me is always "you're dying, I'm dying, we're all dying". Real comforting! I've been on my own trying to find out what it all means. I've requested another referral to a Doc who has knowledge of HepC. I've been so swollen at times I can't move without horrible pain. Gastro gave me diurhetics but refuses to allow me anything for pain. (Guess I'm a potential drug addict too.) Wound up in the hospital after Xmas where I finally got some relief! Did I mention I also have a hernia in my groin from the extra pressure? Gastro keeps telling me not to worry about it, just lay down and put my feet up. Now it's the size of a tennis ball and extremely painful after a long day. Needless to say, I have an appt. with a surgeon to get it fixed.Whew! And that's the short of it. Anyway, I'm trying to wrap my mind around all this. I've educated myself enough to know I need a real specialist who is willing and able to help me. Now that the fog is lifting I'm starting to get a little pissed!Thanks for listening! And thank you for this wonderful group of people! Even my family thinks I'm just lazy. Fatique? Me? Never! I'm off to start another day after a long night without sleep. Love to all! You have no idea how much I mean that!------------------------------------

February 21, 2011

'Hi Teri!

Thanks for the warm welcome. I'm so glad to finally be here!

As for our home. Time is healing that wound. And, believe it or not most of my photos are safe. They were in plastic storage boxes under our stairs and were well insulated from the chemicals they doused the house in. We have a lovely new home and we are slowly making it our own in this new chapter of our lives.

I'm definately gonna fire my Gastro. He's done nothing for me other than piss me off and make me feel like I'm getting my just desserts for something I've done but can't identify. You're right about trying to figure out the where and why of my infection. It's just one more waste of time that I don't want to squander.

My aches and pains are currently at bay except for this giant hernia that I intend to have fixed soon. Since my ascites is calming down I can actually move with minimal discomfort. I over did it for my fam during the holidays and had to take to my bed for several days. Thank God the ER got my pain under control. I was actually glad my ass wipe Gastro was out of town. He would have blown me off. He told me the first time I went to him with my pain that I'd have to be writhing in the floor before he would give me anything for it.

I still have nose bleeds and this horrible itching which my Gastro attributes to dry skin. Told me to take luke warm showers and use lots of baby oil. Definately not the problem but my skin sure is soft!! LOL!! I have to be very careful getting around as I tire easily and have fallen a time or two. Had a couple of broken ribs and scratched up knees. As for my lack of sleep, I believe it is due to the meds I'm on. (High doses of pee-pee pills and thryoid meds. I can't attribute it to diet as I only take in caffeine with my daily dose of dark chocolate. I only drink water, juice, caffeine free tea and caffeine free diet coke.

Gastro is trying to turn me into a vegitarian. I'm on a high protein diet but he wants me to get all my protein from veggies. I eat plenty of fruit and veggies but must have meat!!!!

I feel kinda weird sharing all this, but it feels good too! I try to keep my suffering to myself so my family doesn't have to worry so much. They know enough without having it up close and personal 24/7.

Thanks be to God for all of you! Have a great day!

S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Sun, 20 Feb 2011 15:57:38 -0600Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Wow... You say you are Irish and ish? Did you piss off a leprechaun somewhere? Holy crap I couldn't imagine any worse luck..I In any case, welcome to the group... Hopefully we can be a bit calming for you and get you some good information and just a warning, we do inject some levity around here.. sometimes at the strangest of things. Be prepared to laugh without warning!

I am so sorry to hear about your home burning down. Happy to hear no one was lost or injured severely but I can understand the loss of the memorabilia. That would kill me. And that is stuff that is impossible to put a price tag on for the insurance companies... not that they would pay anything near what it's worth but still. Pictures... stuff like that.. I am so sorry.

Then you get hit with a health crisis... Not surprising at all.. the stress of the house fire is enough to bring everything up to the surface that would have been bubbling underneath.

Words of wisdom here... FIRE THE GASTRO. If he's not talking about hep c it's because he's not familiar with it or doesn't want to be bothered with it.. and the "dying" comment, that would get him a swift kick in the shins if it was me. Just gives me the impression that he doesn't care enough if at all. See if you can find a Hepatologist.. that's a Liver Specialist.. or a gastro on steroids. They've done the normal schooling and rotations as a Gastro plus another year or so of intense training just on the liver. Good docs to have when you have hep c. They are up to date on all the treatments, side effects and protocols for hep c.

Thyroid conditions and hep c kinda go hand in hand. I have been on Synthroid since 2001. It does take a long time to get your thyroid regulated since they have to start you on such low dosages of that stuff and slowly build you up.

As far as where the hep c came from.. do me a favor and please don't sweat it. There is no telling where it came from. Could be anywhere. Dentist visits prior to the mid 1990's, ear piercings, vaccinations when we were kids, blood transfusions, sharing a razor blade or toothbrush, drug use... Don't beat yourself up on the how.. the how doesn't matter. What matters is what you do now that you know you have it.

The more I read the more your gastro is pissing me off. Jeez, don't go back to him.. he just sounds like a real piece of work.. There are gastro's who went into that specialty specifically so they wouldn't have to see many patients.. they want to spend their time in the GI lab doing upper and lower GI's. When they do see patients, they usually are pretty good at sending them packing. Sounds like you have one of those... When you have a doctor that is in it for all the right reasons and your health is important to him, it's a whole different ball game. I have gone thru a few doctors in the past 10 years.. I fired my first gastro and got a Hepatologist whom I love and who saved my life.. I fired my GP of 11 years because he didn't believe in a diagnosis but he was sure I had the disease process but wouldn't do anything about it.. found a doctor that would. Your health is important and your doctor has to be willing to take it as seriously as you do. If he doesn't there is one word.... NEXT. There are plenty of those guys out there... You just have to find the right one.

You said you didn't sleep last night... plus you mentioned fatigue and your family thinking you are lazy... Do you also have aches and pains that can be debilitating? Feeling like you've been beat with a crowbar when you wake up? Muscle and joint pain? Get back to me on this one....

I am glad you are here... welcome.

Hugs,Teri

On Sun, Feb 20, 2011 at 8:01 AM, cockygal97 <scwise@...> wrote:

Hello all. I've been reading your posts and am amazed at the wealth of information you've all been in such a short period of time! I haven't known when to jump in, but, here goes anyway.In Dec. 2009, my home burned down. Family and pets all fine but 20+ years of memorabilia gone up in flames. (Not to mention that year's Xmas gifts.) A couple months later I began having the worst case of diarhea ever! Horrible stomach pains and swelling ensued. GP ordered blood work, ultrasound and sent me home with instructions to take a mild laxative. REALLY bad idea. Went back only to find I had hypothyroidism and HepC. Was given Synthroid, muscle relaxers, dilaudid and some anti-anxiety drug that gave me wicked weird hallucinations. Now I know what I didn't miss out on in my youth. Was referred to Gastro guy who ordered more blood work and another ultrasound. HepC positive again, thyroid still low functioning and, ultrasound indicated cyrrhosis of the liver. Was diagnosed with alcoholic cyrrhosis with no mention of HepC contribution. I've always been a drinker. Mostly just wine. My heritage is Irish, ish and French. (A bit of German too.) I come by it honest. (I haven't had so much as a sip of wine, or any other alcohol, since all this began.)I have no idea where the HepC came from, no idea how long I've had it and Gastro guy never speaks of it. His parting line to me is always "you're dying, I'm dying, we're all dying". Real comforting! I've been on my own trying to find out what it all means. I've requested another referral to a Doc who has knowledge of HepC. I've been so swollen at times I can't move without horrible pain. Gastro gave me diurhetics but refuses to allow me anything for pain. (Guess I'm a potential drug addict too.) Wound up in the hospital after Xmas where I finally got some relief! Did I mention I also have a hernia in my groin from the extra pressure? Gastro keeps telling me not to worry about it, just lay down and put my feet up. Now it's the size of a tennis ball and extremely painful after a long day. Needless to say, I have an appt. with a surgeon to get it fixed.Whew! And that's the short of it. Anyway, I'm trying to wrap my mind around all this. I've educated myself enough to know I need a real specialist who is willing and able to help me. Now that the fog is lifting I'm starting to get a little pissed!Thanks for listening! And thank you for this wonderful group of people! Even my family thinks I'm just lazy. Fatique? Me? Never! I'm off to start another day after a long night without sleep. Love to all! You have no idea how much I mean that!

February 21, 2011

Hi Gloria!

Not sure Colette is any better on the weird scale. I suppose the French side of the fam was in power when I was born. For some reason, folks call me anything but Colette! LOL!

So glad you're virus free and still telling the tale! You are an inspiration and a voice of hope behind all the gloom and doom that has been bestowed upon me.

I hope you have a great week! God's peace!!

S. Colette Wise

From: gadamscan@...Date: Sun, 20 Feb 2011 19:43:07 -0800Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Cockygal - please give us a name to use that doesn't feel so weird!! I'd rather type or Betty than Cocky LOLWell, you've certainly had a roller coaster ride for awhile now!! Wow.. The most important thing from the fire, is that everyone is OK!! Ya, I imagine that the loss of memorabilia hurts but you just have to make new ones. Or like in my family, get everyone to send pictures they had of some occasion and pretty quick, we all back up to speed.Now, it's probably been said here already; but, I'll say it anyway. On this forum, we don't ask and don't care how one contracted Hep C. Could be because most of us would have to admit that we really don't know for sure either. Ya, the Drs were telling everybody that if they used IV Drugs even just once in their youth - bingo, that's where it came from. THEY LIED!!!In fact, when the GP tried that one on me back in 2002, he no sooner than got the words out of his mouth when I called bullshit. Shocked him some. Like I said to him, I maybe tried the IV Drugs 5 times; but, was so afraid of needles that that was enough. However, I went on for the next 15 yrs drinking alcoholically! At the time of our visit, I had been sober for 15 yrs. You know, he had to agree!! Now, most of my records have "likely from an ear piercing" on them.However, let's face it - the alcohol had already done damage before I quit and then the Hep C took over. Then, I don't think that it helped one iota that I swallowed Acetaminophen like it was candy, for my constant acetaminophen headache.Today??? I've fought the dragon twice, 48 weeks each time and today I am Hep C free!!!

Hello all. I've been reading your posts and am amazed at the wealth of information you've all been in such a short period of time! I haven't known when to jump in, but, here goes anyway.In Dec. 2009, my home burned down. Family and pets all fine but 20+ years of memorabilia gone up in flames. (Not to mention that year's Xmas gifts.) A couple months later I began having the worst case of diarhea ever! Horrible stomach pains and swelling ensued. GP ordered blood work, ultrasound and sent me home with instructions to take a mild laxative. REALLY bad idea. Went back only to find I had hypothyroidism and HepC. Was given Synthroid, muscle relaxers, dilaudid and some anti-anxiety drug that gave me wicked weird hallucinations. Now I know what I didn't miss out on in my youth. Was referred to Gastro guy who ordered more blood work and another ultrasound. HepC positive again, thyroid still low functioning and, ultrasound indicated cyrrhosis of the liver. Was diagnosed with alcoholic cyrrhosis with no mention of HepC contribution. I've always been a drinker. Mostly just wine. My heritage is Irish, ish and French. (A bit of German too.) I come by it honest. (I haven't had so much as a sip of wine, or any other alcohol, since all this began.)I have no idea where the HepC came from, no idea how long I've had it and Gastro guy never speaks of it. His parting line to me is always "you're dying, I'm dying, we're all dying". Real comforting! I've been on my own trying to find out what it all means. I've requested another referral to a Doc who has knowledge of HepC. I've been so swollen at times I can't move without horrible pain. Gastro gave me diurhetics but refuses to allow me anything for pain. (Guess I'm a potential drug addict too.) Wound up in the hospital after Xmas where I finally got some relief! Did I mention I also have a hernia in my groin from the extra pressure? Gastro keeps telling me not to worry about it, just lay down and put my feet up. Now it's the size of a tennis ball and extremely painful after a long day. Needless to say, I have an appt. with a surgeon to get it fixed.Whew! And that's the short of it. Anyway, I'm trying to wrap my mind around all this. I've educated myself enough to know I need a real specialist who is willing and able to help me. Now that the fog is lifting I'm starting to get a little pissed!Thanks for listening! And thank you for this wonderful group of people! Even my family thinks I'm just lazy. Fatique? Me? Never! I'm off to start another day after a long night without sleep. Love to all! You have no idea how much I mean that!

February 21, 2011

I've missed this one, Betty!! There is no or Betty that has ever done anything to me. I just like typing those names more than I do - Cocky

Gloria, what has or Betty done to u?

From: Gloria <gadamscan@...> Sent: Sun, February 20, 2011 10:43:07 PMSubject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Cockygal - please give us a name to use that doesn't feel so weird!! I'd rather type or Betty than Cocky LOLWell, you've certainly had a roller coaster ride for awhile now!! Wow.. The most important thing from the fire, is that everyone is OK!! Ya, I imagine that the loss of memorabilia hurts but you just have to make new ones. Or like in my family, get everyone to send pictures they had of some occasion and pretty quick, we all back up to speed.Now, it's probably been said here already; but, I'll say it anyway. On this forum, we don't ask and don't care how one contracted Hep C. Could be because most of us would have to admit that we really don't know for sure either. Ya, the Drs were telling everybody that if they used IV Drugs

even

just once in their youth - bingo, that's where it came from. THEY LIED!!!In fact, when the GP tried that one on me back in 2002, he no sooner than got the words out of his mouth when I called bullshit. Shocked him some. Like I said to him, I maybe tried the IV Drugs 5 times; but, was so afraid of needles that that was enough. However, I went on for the next 15 yrs drinking alcoholically! At the time of our visit, I had been sober for 15 yrs. You know, he had to agree!! Now, most of my records have "likely from an ear piercing" on them.However, let's face it - the alcohol had already done damage before I quit and then the Hep C took over. Then, I don't think that it helped one iota that I swallowed Acetaminophen like it was candy, for my constant acetaminophen headache.Today??? I've fought the dragon twice, 48 weeks each time and today I am Hep C

free!!!

Hello all. I've been reading your posts and am amazed at the wealth of information you've all been in such a short period of time! I haven't known when to jump in, but, here goes anyway.In Dec. 2009, my home burned down. Family and pets all fine but 20+ years of memorabilia gone up in flames. (Not to mention that year's Xmas gifts.) A couple months later I began having the worst case of diarhea ever! Horrible stomach pains and swelling ensued. GP ordered blood work, ultrasound and sent me home with instructions to take a mild laxative. REALLY bad idea. Went back only to find I had hypothyroidism and HepC. Was given Synthroid, muscle relaxers, dilaudid and some anti-anxiety drug that gave me wicked weird hallucinations. Now I know what I didn't miss out on in my youth. Was referred to Gastro guy who ordered more blood work and another ultrasound. HepC positive again, thyroid still low functioning and, ultrasound indicated

cyrrhosis of the liver. Was diagnosed with alcoholic cyrrhosis with no mention of HepC contribution. I've always been a drinker. Mostly just wine. My heritage is Irish, ish and French. (A bit of German too.) I come by it honest. (I haven't had so much as a sip of wine, or any other alcohol, since all this began.)I have no idea where the HepC came from, no idea how long I've had it and Gastro guy never speaks of it. His parting line to me is always "you're dying, I'm dying, we're all dying". Real comforting! I've been on my own trying to find out what it all means. I've requested another referral to a Doc who has knowledge of HepC. I've been so swollen at times I can't move without horrible pain. Gastro gave me diurhetics but refuses to allow me anything for pain. (Guess I'm a potential drug addict too.) Wound up in the hospital after Xmas where I finally got some relief! Did I mention I also have a hernia in my groin from the extra

pressure? Gastro keeps telling me not to worry about it, just lay down and put my feet up. Now it's the size of a tennis ball and extremely painful after a long day. Needless to say, I have an appt. with a surgeon to get it fixed.Whew! And that's the short of it. Anyway, I'm trying to wrap my mind around all this. I've educated myself enough to know I need a real specialist who is willing and able to help me. Now that the fog is lifting I'm starting to get a little pissed!Thanks for listening! And thank you for this wonderful group of people! Even my family thinks I'm just lazy. Fatique? Me? Never! I'm off to start another day after a long night without sleep. Love to all! You have no idea how much I mean that!

February 22, 2011

LOL! I guess I'm about to be demoted! I only gave birth to 3. The other two came with the marriage package. I still consider them mine too. (Sometimes.)

As for treatment options, I'll cross that bridge once I know what I'm dealing with. I truly have very little to go on at this point. You guys are opening my eyes to the things I definately need to know. As I said before, I'm really getting pissed! I feel I should know a lot more than I do at this point.

Love ya, mean it! Have a great day!S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2011 19:15:45 -0600Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Oh my LORD you are a SAINT! 5? Jeez... My one and only is 30 and wanted nothing to do with college... He's a Service Technician for Comcast.. been there since 1999 and the kid is making more money than I've ever made in my life! He's worked his way up the ladder (no pun intended) and works his butt off... the two in college are my husbands kids.. I've been with them for more than half of their lives.. I just didn't have to give birth to them or change their diapers but I wound up involved while they were still very young so they are pretty much mine too! 5... couldn't imagine! WOW.

Knowing what to ask is the one thing that will keep your doctor on his toes! If your doctor knows you have a vested interest in your health they tend to take you more seriously. Hep c treatment is not a cake walk and a lot of doctors will try to talk you out of it. These are the doctors that don't want to be bothered with the treatment. It's a big thing for them to take on as well as for you to go thru... Many doctors pre-judge who can and cannot handle this treatment. The decision on whether or not to treat should involve your input.

We're here to help you however we can as you take this journey..

Hugs,Teri

On Mon, Feb 21, 2011 at 5:56 PM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

Teri, Thanks for that! Part of my problem has been not knowing what to ask! I knew joining this group would help me with questions as well as subsequent answers. Oh, and kids, try five. One is now a Chemical Eng. for Michelin, one never attempted college, one attempted and lost his football scholarship (2 much partying) and was eventually kicked out. Now down to last two. Kids are like a box of chocolates....... But they are all finding their way just the same. Go COCKS!!!!S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2011 15:20:15 -0600Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Collette...

When you find that new doctor... ask for a HCV series and that you want to know your genotype (the doc needs to know this if he's even concerned about treatment) and your viral load. The fact that your current doc didn't give you this info makes me think he didn't run all the tests... ditch this guy sweetie.. He's a train wreck. Look for a Hepatologist. Their practice usually is called Liver Disease Specialists or Liver Disease Center. Something like that.

Oh my hubs would love your family! He loves watching USCarolina games so he can yell GO YOU COCKS! Great job getting the kids thru college. We have one graduating in May from Augustana in Rock Island, IL and another who is in her first year at DePauw in Indiana. It's been a wild ride with these two.. can't even imagine doing it with three. You have a lot to be proud of..

Hugs,

Teri

On Mon, Feb 21, 2011 at 8:07 AM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

Hello all! Answers to your questions come easy for me now that I'm on such a desperate search for answers! My name is Colette and I'm in SC. Thus the name Cockygal. We are hard core USCarolina fans. A lot of money and time has gone into the University and our son will be going there in the Fall. My husband, me and one of my daughters have degrees from there so far. Two more to go!I have no idea what my genotype is. I have poor coagulation but that's the extent of my knowledge as far as labs go. My family has not been tested but I definately want to do that in the near future. Had I known about my HepC I would have been a lot more protective of my liver and wouldn't be running behind the eight ball. I honestly have no more info to share other than obvious symptoms which I'm sure you are all intimate with. I hope a new Gastro will shed some light on my status and help me rather than placate me. I feel like such a leper!! S. Colette Wise

From: ludichrist2000@...Date: Sun, 20 Feb 2011 11:35:41 -0800Subject: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Hi Cockygal

Thank your for posting about yourself.

Im sorry that you have had so many problems, and lost your home.

I went thru that one too back in 1980, but I was in the house when it exploded and burst into flames.

Your doing two really good things for yourself -

- NOT drinking alcohol [with HCV, alcohol is like gasoline on a fire].

- doing your own research [you will find more info faster, than if you wait for answers to appear].

Can I ask you some questions?

- What is your first name? [if that is ok]

- What genotype are you?

- Can you tell us more about your HCV lab and test results?

- If you are married or have children - has your family been tested for HCV?

Sorry to be nosey, but the more that you tell us, the more we all will know.....errrrr, uh, duh.

LOL :-)

What I ment to say was - knowledge is power - the more we know, the better we can fight.

And you may give someone else an idea, or an answer that they can use too, so I personally encourage sharing as much as a person feels comfortable with.

One last thing - GET REAL PISSED OFF.

It will help you fight like hell to recover part of what is rightfully yours - your health.

love

don in ks

From: cockygal97 <scwise@...>Subject: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC Date: Sunday, February 20, 2011, 8:01 AM

Hello all. I've been reading your posts and am amazed at the wealth of information you've all been in such a short period of time! I haven't known when to jump in, but, here goes anyway.In Dec. 2009, my home burned down. Family and pets all fine but 20+ years of memorabilia gone up in flames. (Not to mention that year's Xmas gifts.) A couple months later I began having the worst case of diarhea ever! Horrible stomach pains and swelling ensued. GP ordered blood work, ultrasound and sent me home with instructions to take a mild laxative. REALLY bad idea. Went back only to find I had hypothyroidism and HepC. Was given Synthroid, muscle relaxers, dilaudid and some anti-anxiety drug that gave me wicked weird hallucinations. Now I know what I didn't miss out on in my youth. Was referred to Gastro guy who ordered more blood work and another ultrasound. HepC positive again, thyroid still low functioning and, ultrasound indicated cyrrhosis of the liver. Was diagnosed with alcoholic cyrrhosis with no mention of HepC contribution. I've always been a drinker. Mostly just wine. My heritage is Irish, ish and French. (A bit of German too.) I come by it honest. (I haven't had so much as a sip of wine, or any other alcohol, since all this began.)I have no idea where the HepC came from, no idea how long I've had it and Gastro guy never speaks of it. His parting line to me is always "you're dying, I'm dying, we're all dying". Real comforting! I've been on my own trying to find out what it all means. I've requested another referral to a Doc who has knowledge of HepC. I've been so swollen at times I can't move without horrible pain. Gastro gave me diurhetics but refuses to allow me anything for pain. (Guess I'm a potential drug addict too.) Wound up in the hospital after Xmas where I finally got some relief! Did I mention I also have a hernia in my groin from the extra pressure? Gastro keeps telling me not to worry about it, just lay down and put my feet up. Now it's the size of a tennis ball and extremely painful after a long day. Needless to say, I have an appt. with a surgeon to get it fixed.Whew! And that's the short of it. Anyway, I'm trying to wrap my mind around all this. I've educated myself enough to know I need a real specialist who is willing and able to help me. Now that the fog is lifting I'm starting to get a little pissed!Thanks for listening! And thank you for this wonderful group of people! Even my family thinks I'm just lazy. Fatique? Me? Never! I'm off to start another day after a long night without sleep. Love to all! You have no idea how much I mean that!------------------------------------

February 22, 2011

Holy Crap I detest your doctor more and more with additional information.... Jeez. Another one that got his MD at Sears. At this point, I would start fresh and tell a new doctor that you don't believe anything this guy has said other than you have hep c. And I'd even question that. New doctor, start fresh, have him run the hep c tests to make sure.

You've already had the ultrasound and he is diagnosing the cirrhosis by the ultrasound.... okay. I can buy that but I'd want a biopsy since that's the only way to really determine damage.... Usually they do an ultrasound before a biopsy so they can have a better idea of the size and shape of your liver.

Did I mention I really don't like your doctor?Wow.Hugs,TeriOn Tue, Feb 22, 2011 at 8:16 AM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

I'm on a totally different time schedule so I'm always way behind. Sorry about that!

My doctor asked me if I drank. I said yes. He asked how much. I said wine pretty much daily. Next I'm looking at that piece of paper you check out with to pay and he has checked off the box that says alcoholic cyrrhosis. I won't deny I drank too much, but we had no in-depth discussion and I didn't have a clue what was going on at the time.

Next, I became infected with HepB. Found that out when I received a bill from the hospital where I had an ultrasound. I was confused but found out it was a clerical mistake. Wonder what I'll come down with next?

Still pissed.S. Colette Wise

February 22, 2011

Not demoted! I only gave birth to 1 out of our 3 and the 2 I didn't give birth to gave me more grief than my own has. It takes a special person to be a step mom! Even more special if at least one of the step kids is a girl! That's a whole nother kind of issue! She wanted to stand between us when we got married and said " I do " ... really, she wanted to... she expected it. Didn't happen.

Hugs,TeriOn Tue, Feb 22, 2011 at 8:00 AM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

LOL! I guess I'm about to be demoted! I only gave birth to 3. The other two came with the marriage package. I still consider them mine too. (Sometimes.)

As for treatment options, I'll cross that bridge once I know what I'm dealing with. I truly have very little to go on at this point. You guys are opening my eyes to the things I definately need to know. As I said before, I'm really getting pissed! I feel I should know a lot more than I do at this point.

Love ya, mean it! Have a great day!S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2011 19:15:45 -0600

Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Oh my LORD you are a SAINT! 5? Jeez... My one and only is 30 and wanted nothing to do with college... He's a Service Technician for Comcast.. been there since 1999 and the kid is making more money than I've ever made in my life! He's worked his way up the ladder (no pun intended) and works his butt off... the two in college are my husbands kids.. I've been with them for more than half of their lives.. I just didn't have to give birth to them or change their diapers but I wound up involved while they were still very young so they are pretty much mine too! 5... couldn't imagine! WOW.

Knowing what to ask is the one thing that will keep your doctor on his toes! If your doctor knows you have a vested interest in your health they tend to take you more seriously. Hep c treatment is not a cake walk and a lot of doctors will try to talk you out of it. These are the doctors that don't want to be bothered with the treatment. It's a big thing for them to take on as well as for you to go thru... Many doctors pre-judge who can and cannot handle this treatment. The decision on whether or not to treat should involve your input.

We're here to help you however we can as you take this journey..

Hugs,Teri

On Mon, Feb 21, 2011 at 5:56 PM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

Teri, Thanks for that! Part of my problem has been not knowing what to ask! I knew joining this group would help me with questions as well as subsequent answers. Oh, and kids, try five. One is now a Chemical Eng. for Michelin, one never attempted college, one attempted and lost his football scholarship (2 much partying) and was eventually kicked out. Now down to last two. Kids are like a box of chocolates....... But they are all finding their way just the same.

Go COCKS!!!!S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2011 15:20:15 -0600

Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Collette...

When you find that new doctor... ask for a HCV series and that you want to know your genotype (the doc needs to know this if he's even concerned about treatment) and your viral load. The fact that your current doc didn't give you this info makes me think he didn't run all the tests... ditch this guy sweetie.. He's a train wreck. Look for a Hepatologist. Their practice usually is called Liver Disease Specialists or Liver Disease Center. Something like that.

Oh my hubs would love your family! He loves watching USCarolina games so he can yell GO YOU COCKS! Great job getting the kids thru college. We have one graduating in May from Augustana in Rock Island, IL and another who is in her first year at DePauw in Indiana. It's been a wild ride with these two.. can't even imagine doing it with three. You have a lot to be proud of..

Hugs,

Teri

On Mon, Feb 21, 2011 at 8:07 AM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

Hello all! Answers to your questions come easy for me now that I'm on such a desperate search for answers! My name is Colette and I'm in SC. Thus the name Cockygal. We are hard core USCarolina fans. A lot of money and time has gone into the University and our son will be going there in the Fall. My husband, me and one of my daughters have degrees from there so far. Two more to go!

I have no idea what my genotype is. I have poor coagulation but that's the extent of my knowledge as far as labs go. My family has not been tested but I definately want to do that in the near future. Had I known about my HepC I would have been a lot more protective of my liver and wouldn't be running behind the eight ball.

I honestly have no more info to share other than obvious symptoms which I'm sure you are all intimate with. I hope a new Gastro will shed some light on my status and help me rather than placate me. I feel like such a leper!!

S. Colette Wise

From: ludichrist2000@...Date: Sun, 20 Feb 2011 11:35:41 -0800

Subject: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Hi Cockygal

Thank your for posting about yourself.

Im sorry that you have had so many problems, and lost your home.

I went thru that one too back in 1980, but I was in the house when it exploded and burst into flames.

Your doing two really good things for yourself -

- NOT drinking alcohol [with HCV, alcohol is like gasoline on a fire].

- doing your own research [you will find more info faster, than if you wait for answers to appear].

Can I ask you some questions?

- What is your first name? [if that is ok]

- What genotype are you?

- Can you tell us more about your HCV lab and test results?

- If you are married or have children - has your family been tested for HCV?

Sorry to be nosey, but the more that you tell us, the more we all will know.....errrrr, uh, duh.

LOL :-)

What I ment to say was - knowledge is power - the more we know, the better we can fight.

And you may give someone else an idea, or an answer that they can use too, so I personally encourage sharing as much as a person feels comfortable with.

One last thing - GET REAL PISSED OFF.

It will help you fight like hell to recover part of what is rightfully yours - your health.

love

don in ks

From: cockygal97 <scwise@...>Subject: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Date: Sunday, February 20, 2011, 8:01 AM

Hello all. I've been reading your posts and am amazed at the wealth of information you've all been in such a short period of time! I haven't known when to jump in, but, here goes anyway.In Dec. 2009, my home burned down. Family and pets all fine but 20+ years of memorabilia gone up in flames. (Not to mention that year's Xmas gifts.)

A couple months later I began having the worst case of diarhea ever! Horrible stomach pains and swelling ensued. GP ordered blood work, ultrasound and sent me home with instructions to take a mild laxative. REALLY bad idea. Went back only to find I had hypothyroidism and HepC. Was given Synthroid, muscle relaxers, dilaudid and some anti-anxiety drug that gave me wicked weird hallucinations. Now I know what I didn't miss out on in my youth.

Was referred to Gastro guy who ordered more blood work and another ultrasound. HepC positive again, thyroid still low functioning and, ultrasound indicated cyrrhosis of the liver. Was diagnosed with alcoholic cyrrhosis with no mention of HepC contribution. I've always been a drinker. Mostly just wine. My heritage is Irish, ish and French. (A bit of German too.) I come by it honest. (I haven't had so much as a sip of wine, or any other alcohol, since all this began.)

I have no idea where the HepC came from, no idea how long I've had it and Gastro guy never speaks of it. His parting line to me is always " you're dying, I'm dying, we're all dying " . Real comforting! I've been on my own trying to find out what it all means. I've requested another referral to a Doc who has knowledge of HepC. I've been so swollen at times I can't move without horrible pain. Gastro gave me diurhetics but refuses to allow me anything for pain. (Guess I'm a potential drug addict too.) Wound up in the hospital after Xmas where I finally got some relief!

Did I mention I also have a hernia in my groin from the extra pressure? Gastro keeps telling me not to worry about it, just lay down and put my feet up. Now it's the size of a tennis ball and extremely painful after a long day. Needless to say, I have an appt. with a surgeon to get it fixed.

Whew! And that's the short of it. Anyway, I'm trying to wrap my mind around all this. I've educated myself enough to know I need a real specialist who is willing and able to help me. Now that the fog is lifting I'm starting to get a little pissed!

Thanks for listening! And thank you for this wonderful group of people! Even my family thinks I'm just lazy. Fatique? Me? Never! I'm off to start another day after a long night without sleep.

Love to all! You have no idea how much I mean that!------------------------------------

February 22, 2011

Apparently we're not the only ones. I found a web site with patient reviews and found no positive feedback on this particular Gastro guy. Had I known then what I know now.....S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:49:58 -0600Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Holy Crap I detest your doctor more and more with additional information.... Jeez. Another one that got his MD at Sears.

At this point, I would start fresh and tell a new doctor that you don't believe anything this guy has said other than you have hep c. And I'd even question that. New doctor, start fresh, have him run the hep c tests to make sure.

You've already had the ultrasound and he is diagnosing the cirrhosis by the ultrasound.... okay. I can buy that but I'd want a biopsy since that's the only way to really determine damage.... Usually they do an ultrasound before a biopsy so they can have a better idea of the size and shape of your liver.

Did I mention I really don't like your doctor?

Wow.

Hugs,Teri

On Tue, Feb 22, 2011 at 8:16 AM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

I'm on a totally different time schedule so I'm always way behind. Sorry about that! My doctor asked me if I drank. I said yes. He asked how much. I said wine pretty much daily. Next I'm looking at that piece of paper you check out with to pay and he has checked off the box that says alcoholic cyrrhosis. I won't deny I drank too much, but we had no in-depth discussion and I didn't have a clue what was going on at the time. Next, I became infected with HepB. Found that out when I received a bill from the hospital where I had an ultrasound. I was confused but found out it was a clerical mistake. Wonder what I'll come down with next? Still pissed.S. Colette Wise

February 22, 2011

I will give him credit for endoscopy! I slept for two days after! Never knew what hit me!S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:49:58 -0600Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Holy Crap I detest your doctor more and more with additional information.... Jeez. Another one that got his MD at Sears.

At this point, I would start fresh and tell a new doctor that you don't believe anything this guy has said other than you have hep c. And I'd even question that. New doctor, start fresh, have him run the hep c tests to make sure.

You've already had the ultrasound and he is diagnosing the cirrhosis by the ultrasound.... okay. I can buy that but I'd want a biopsy since that's the only way to really determine damage.... Usually they do an ultrasound before a biopsy so they can have a better idea of the size and shape of your liver.

Did I mention I really don't like your doctor?

Wow.

Hugs,Teri

On Tue, Feb 22, 2011 at 8:16 AM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

I'm on a totally different time schedule so I'm always way behind. Sorry about that! My doctor asked me if I drank. I said yes. He asked how much. I said wine pretty much daily. Next I'm looking at that piece of paper you check out with to pay and he has checked off the box that says alcoholic cyrrhosis. I won't deny I drank too much, but we had no in-depth discussion and I didn't have a clue what was going on at the time. Next, I became infected with HepB. Found that out when I received a bill from the hospital where I had an ultrasound. I was confused but found out it was a clerical mistake. Wonder what I'll come down with next? Still pissed.S. Colette Wise

February 22, 2011

Okay well good then. That just makes what we are thinking more credible. Lets not have you waste any more of your time on this poor excuse for a doctor. Time to start scouting out a new one... See if there is a Hepatologist in your area. There is usually always one affiliated with a large hospital or a teaching hospital. If there is a teaching hospital in your area they will definitely have a Liver Specialist.

Hugs,TeriOn Tue, Feb 22, 2011 at 1:12 PM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

Apparently we're not the only ones. I found a web site with patient reviews and found no positive feedback on this particular Gastro guy. Had I known then what I know now.....S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:49:58 -0600

Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Holy Crap I detest your doctor more and more with additional information.... Jeez. Another one that got his MD at Sears.

At this point, I would start fresh and tell a new doctor that you don't believe anything this guy has said other than you have hep c. And I'd even question that. New doctor, start fresh, have him run the hep c tests to make sure.

You've already had the ultrasound and he is diagnosing the cirrhosis by the ultrasound.... okay. I can buy that but I'd want a biopsy since that's the only way to really determine damage.... Usually they do an ultrasound before a biopsy so they can have a better idea of the size and shape of your liver.

Did I mention I really don't like your doctor?

Wow.

Hugs,Teri

On Tue, Feb 22, 2011 at 8:16 AM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

I'm on a totally different time schedule so I'm always way behind. Sorry about that! My doctor asked me if I drank. I said yes. He asked how much. I said wine pretty much daily. Next I'm looking at that piece of paper you check out with to pay and he has checked off the box that says alcoholic cyrrhosis. I won't deny I drank too much, but we had no in-depth discussion and I didn't have a clue what was going on at the time.

Next, I became infected with HepB. Found that out when I received a bill from the hospital where I had an ultrasound. I was confused but found out it was a clerical mistake. Wonder what I'll come down with next?

Still pissed.S. Colette Wise

February 22, 2011

Happy to hear that! One of my steps is female but she's kinda sneaky about keeping her Daddy wrapped up tight. It's okay, I'm a Daddy's girl too. We really haven't had issues. The issues were always between my daughter from a previous marriage and my husband. She was only 6 when we married, but she didn't like it one bit!

LOL! Females!S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:52:30 -0600Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Not demoted! I only gave birth to 1 out of our 3 and the 2 I didn't give birth to gave me more grief than my own has. It takes a special person to be a step mom! Even more special if at least one of the step kids is a girl! That's a whole nother kind of issue! She wanted to stand between us when we got married and said "I do"... really, she wanted to... she expected it. Didn't happen.

Hugs,Teri

On Tue, Feb 22, 2011 at 8:00 AM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

LOL! I guess I'm about to be demoted! I only gave birth to 3. The other two came with the marriage package. I still consider them mine too. (Sometimes.) As for treatment options, I'll cross that bridge once I know what I'm dealing with. I truly have very little to go on at this point. You guys are opening my eyes to the things I definately need to know. As I said before, I'm really getting pissed! I feel I should know a lot more than I do at this point. Love ya, mean it! Have a great day!S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2011 19:15:45 -0600Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Oh my LORD you are a SAINT! 5? Jeez... My one and only is 30 and wanted nothing to do with college... He's a Service Technician for Comcast.. been there since 1999 and the kid is making more money than I've ever made in my life! He's worked his way up the ladder (no pun intended) and works his butt off... the two in college are my husbands kids.. I've been with them for more than half of their lives.. I just didn't have to give birth to them or change their diapers but I wound up involved while they were still very young so they are pretty much mine too! 5... couldn't imagine! WOW.

Knowing what to ask is the one thing that will keep your doctor on his toes! If your doctor knows you have a vested interest in your health they tend to take you more seriously. Hep c treatment is not a cake walk and a lot of doctors will try to talk you out of it. These are the doctors that don't want to be bothered with the treatment. It's a big thing for them to take on as well as for you to go thru... Many doctors pre-judge who can and cannot handle this treatment. The decision on whether or not to treat should involve your input.

We're here to help you however we can as you take this journey..

Hugs,Teri

On Mon, Feb 21, 2011 at 5:56 PM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

Teri, Thanks for that! Part of my problem has been not knowing what to ask! I knew joining this group would help me with questions as well as subsequent answers. Oh, and kids, try five. One is now a Chemical Eng. for Michelin, one never attempted college, one attempted and lost his football scholarship (2 much partying) and was eventually kicked out. Now down to last two. Kids are like a box of chocolates....... But they are all finding their way just the same. Go COCKS!!!!S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2011 15:20:15 -0600Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Collette...

When you find that new doctor... ask for a HCV series and that you want to know your genotype (the doc needs to know this if he's even concerned about treatment) and your viral load. The fact that your current doc didn't give you this info makes me think he didn't run all the tests... ditch this guy sweetie.. He's a train wreck. Look for a Hepatologist. Their practice usually is called Liver Disease Specialists or Liver Disease Center. Something like that.

Oh my hubs would love your family! He loves watching USCarolina games so he can yell GO YOU COCKS! Great job getting the kids thru college. We have one graduating in May from Augustana in Rock Island, IL and another who is in her first year at DePauw in Indiana. It's been a wild ride with these two.. can't even imagine doing it with three. You have a lot to be proud of..

Hugs,

Teri

On Mon, Feb 21, 2011 at 8:07 AM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

Hello all! Answers to your questions come easy for me now that I'm on such a desperate search for answers! My name is Colette and I'm in SC. Thus the name Cockygal. We are hard core USCarolina fans. A lot of money and time has gone into the University and our son will be going there in the Fall. My husband, me and one of my daughters have degrees from there so far. Two more to go!I have no idea what my genotype is. I have poor coagulation but that's the extent of my knowledge as far as labs go. My family has not been tested but I definately want to do that in the near future. Had I known about my HepC I would have been a lot more protective of my liver and wouldn't be running behind the eight ball. I honestly have no more info to share other than obvious symptoms which I'm sure you are all intimate with. I hope a new Gastro will shed some light on my status and help me rather than placate me. I feel like such a leper!! S. Colette Wise

From: ludichrist2000@...Date: Sun, 20 Feb 2011 11:35:41 -0800Subject: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Hi Cockygal

Thank your for posting about yourself.

Im sorry that you have had so many problems, and lost your home.

I went thru that one too back in 1980, but I was in the house when it exploded and burst into flames.

Your doing two really good things for yourself -

- NOT drinking alcohol [with HCV, alcohol is like gasoline on a fire].

- doing your own research [you will find more info faster, than if you wait for answers to appear].

Can I ask you some questions?

- What is your first name? [if that is ok]

- What genotype are you?

- Can you tell us more about your HCV lab and test results?

- If you are married or have children - has your family been tested for HCV?

Sorry to be nosey, but the more that you tell us, the more we all will know.....errrrr, uh, duh.

LOL :-)

What I ment to say was - knowledge is power - the more we know, the better we can fight.

And you may give someone else an idea, or an answer that they can use too, so I personally encourage sharing as much as a person feels comfortable with.

One last thing - GET REAL PISSED OFF.

It will help you fight like hell to recover part of what is rightfully yours - your health.

love

don in ks

From: cockygal97 <scwise@...>Subject: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC Date: Sunday, February 20, 2011, 8:01 AM

Hello all. I've been reading your posts and am amazed at the wealth of information you've all been in such a short period of time! I haven't known when to jump in, but, here goes anyway.In Dec. 2009, my home burned down. Family and pets all fine but 20+ years of memorabilia gone up in flames. (Not to mention that year's Xmas gifts.) A couple months later I began having the worst case of diarhea ever! Horrible stomach pains and swelling ensued. GP ordered blood work, ultrasound and sent me home with instructions to take a mild laxative. REALLY bad idea. Went back only to find I had hypothyroidism and HepC. Was given Synthroid, muscle relaxers, dilaudid and some anti-anxiety drug that gave me wicked weird hallucinations. Now I know what I didn't miss out on in my youth. Was referred to Gastro guy who ordered more blood work and another ultrasound. HepC positive again, thyroid still low functioning and, ultrasound indicated cyrrhosis of the liver. Was diagnosed with alcoholic cyrrhosis with no mention of HepC contribution. I've always been a drinker. Mostly just wine. My heritage is Irish, ish and French. (A bit of German too.) I come by it honest. (I haven't had so much as a sip of wine, or any other alcohol, since all this began.)I have no idea where the HepC came from, no idea how long I've had it and Gastro guy never speaks of it. His parting line to me is always "you're dying, I'm dying, we're all dying". Real comforting! I've been on my own trying to find out what it all means. I've requested another referral to a Doc who has knowledge of HepC. I've been so swollen at times I can't move without horrible pain. Gastro gave me diurhetics but refuses to allow me anything for pain. (Guess I'm a potential drug addict too.) Wound up in the hospital after Xmas where I finally got some relief! Did I mention I also have a hernia in my groin from the extra pressure? Gastro keeps telling me not to worry about it, just lay down and put my feet up. Now it's the size of a tennis ball and extremely painful after a long day. Needless to say, I have an appt. with a surgeon to get it fixed.Whew! And that's the short of it. Anyway, I'm trying to wrap my mind around all this. I've educated myself enough to know I need a real specialist who is willing and able to help me. Now that the fog is lifting I'm starting to get a little pissed!Thanks for listening! And thank you for this wonderful group of people! Even my family thinks I'm just lazy. Fatique? Me? Never! I'm off to start another day after a long night without sleep. Love to all! You have no idea how much I mean that!------------------------------------

February 22, 2011

You know there are things that you can only experience by raising someone else's kids.... My son was 18 when I started dating my now husband. Ian has always been very protective of me since for the longest time it was him and me against the world... then this guy walks into his mom's life and he didn't know what to think. My ex was very abusive and my son is ultra protective. It took awhile for him to accept Bruce for the great guy that he is... Now, hell, they are best friends. The girl child... she is 19 and very much a daddy's girl. She is also spoiled rotten and that didn't come from us. Mom did that one all by herself. With age, she seems to be getting better... She has ruined a few holidays though... little brat. Her brother... completely different story. Him and I are SO close. He calls me daily from school just to check in. Calls his dad to but he calls me separately. When he went away to college I cried like a baby all the way home after we dropped him off. His mom, didn't shed a tear. I've been with these kids for more than half their lives now.. I have a vested interest.

Hugs,TeriOn Tue, Feb 22, 2011 at 1:21 PM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

Happy to hear that! One of my steps is female but she's kinda sneaky about keeping her Daddy wrapped up tight. It's okay, I'm a Daddy's girl too. We really haven't had issues. The issues were always between my daughter from a previous marriage and my husband. She was only 6 when we married, but she didn't like it one bit!

LOL! Females!S. Colette Wise

From: theresagottlieb@...Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:52:30 -0600

Subject: Re: [ ] Newb Gettin' Educated in SC

Not demoted! I only gave birth to 1 out of our 3 and the 2 I didn't give birth to gave me more grief than my own has. It takes a special person to be a step mom! Even more special if at least one of the step kids is a girl! That's a whole nother kind of issue! She wanted to stand between us when we got married and said " I do " ... really, she wanted to... she expected it. Didn't happen.

Hugs,Teri

On Tue, Feb 22, 2011 at 8:00 AM, Colette Wise <scwise@...> wrote:

LOL! I guess I'm about to be demoted! I only gave birth to 3. The other two came with the marriage package. I still consider them mine too. (Sometimes.) As for treatment options, I'll cross that bridge once I know what I'm dealing with. I truly have very little to go on at this point. You guys are opening my eyes to the things I definately need to know. As I said before, I'm really getting pissed! I feel I should know a lot more than I do at this point.