Guest guest Posted November 1, 1989 Report Share Posted November 1, 1989 new email......www.photoart@... ---------- > From: Tatezi <tatezi@...> > Hepatitis Cegroups > Subject: Re: Introduction > Date: Sunday, October 29, 2000 10:42 AM > Welcome, Elin.... Everyone here is just wonderful so you'll feel right at home before you know it. And we all know what you are going through...it's a very difficult time when you frist learn that you are sharing your life with Hep C. But you do learn to live with it. There are so many different philosophies when determining how you are going to treat this disease. Some people put themselves in the hands of western medicine, some in the hands of eastern philosophies, some go completely natural and some combine all the different paths. But regardless of which path you follow, no one path has all the answers. Here is Dr. Cabot's link to her original site: http://www.whas.com.au/index.html <http://www.whas.com.au/index.html> Over the last year+ she has developed a liver health site and here is the link to that site: http://www.liverdoctor.com/liverquestionnaire.shtml <http://www.liverdoctor.com/liverquestionnaire.shtml> Her books are great and when she finally came out with the second book it picked up right where her first book has left off. My personal belief is that the way to managing Hep C is with nutrition and lifestyle. Everything we eat, breathe, absorb needs to be processed by the liver. I'm in treatment at this time after a year of working with eastern and herbal treatment plans. I haven't given up those philosophies, but have only added treatment to my regime. I've had no side effects to the treatment until recently which I attribute to my diet and lifestyle. However, it seems I'm starting to deal with the side effect from the rebetron destroying the neurotransmitters in my brain and am becoming increasingly irritable. But I'll work through this too. Glad to have you with us...you'll find a lot of support here. Tatezi Elin L Criswell wrote: > Hi everyone! Thought it was time to introduce myself to the group. > > I just signed up with this list a few days ago. My husband, Danny, was > recently diagnosed with Hep C. It's been a crazy month. First, the > physical with the results of the blood work coming back, giving us this > news. Then, our first meeting with a gastro doctor, where he had us > schedule the liver biopsy. The biopsy was done this past Wednesday. > Next step is to see the gastro. doctor again on Nov. 9. > > So you all know what we are going through, as we start down this road. > > During the last few years, I have found myself in different " caregiving " > roles. I entered into helping with my parents, as my Mom fought uterine > cancer for 2 1/2 years. She died five years ago this December. My Dad > (who is now 87 years old) was able to live alone for 2 years, but in > March, 1998, he fell and broke his leg. Then my husband and our family > entered in as his caregivers. So that he could continue to live in his > own home (he didn't want to live with us in town)... we moved in with him > and we have been here now for 2 1/2 years. > > Being a caregiver for an elderly parent .... what can I say? There are > so many responsibilities. It's like caring for a child, only opposite. > When your babies are little, you take care of them, doing so much for > them that they can't do themselves. It's the same thing caring for a > parent, with the much-added stress of knowing that you never know when > their time on this earth will end. > > But then, Hep C entered our lives and it's a whole different ballgame. > It's not my parents we're talking about now ........ it's my husband. > > To tell you a little more about our family, Danny and I have been married > for 14 years, and we have three children, Becky, 11, , 9, and > , 9 months. I've always been a stay-at-home Mom, and we also > homeschool. > > Hope ....yall.... (we live in Central Texas, ya know) don't mind me > being so wordy. I've spoken from the heart, and I'm " wordy " to begin > with. Take after my Ma. > > I've done alot of research on the web. I've gotten overwhelmed alot over > the different things I've been reading. Does this apply? Does that > apply? What? What? What? It's been very confusing at times. > > But I guess I'm beginning to adjust. Beginning to accept where we are at > with this. > > What we do know for sure at this point, is that after we met again with > the gastro. doctor .... if he doesn't meet our definition of a doctor who > will work with us........ we're dropping him and trying another. Thank > goodness (and Shalleen w/NHCC, Texas), we have a referral for a doctor > that does sound promising. > > I do have a couple of questions to throw out. > > What are the current thoughts on good amounts of Vitamin C & E, to take? > > Also, I could look this back up, but you someone save me time by telling > me the direct website of the lady doctor who has written a couple of > books on the subject of Hep C and diet. > > Elin > ________________________________________________________________ > YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! > Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! > Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: > http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj. <http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.> > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 1, 1989 Report Share Posted November 1, 1989 new email....www.photoart#vvm.com ---------- > From: Mzgee1@... > Hepatitis Cegroups > Subject: Re: Introduction > Date: Sunday, October 29, 2000 9:56 AM > Hi there and welcome.....sorry you find yourself here..but I'm glad you found the sight. The doc you're talking about is Dr. Palmer (has a couple of books out) The books that are out are okay and worth wording to gather info. You can prob. find them at your local library. It sounds as if you have your hands totally FULL........especially having a 9 month old and your dad to care for. Home schooling is wonderful and admirable....but you might want to re-think it as time goes by. It would be OK to have a break during the day. I take it you haven't heard about your husband's biopsy yet. Here's praying it is only 'mild' stages'. Please let us know what the outcome is. God Bless you on this new journey...love, mzgee eGroups Sponsor [<http://adimg./img/9641/15/_/619765/_/972835051/TargetHome468x602F.g\ if>] <1/9641/15/_/619765/_/972835051/> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 4, 1999 Report Share Posted September 4, 1999 Dear Joe, Welcome to the list! And I believe I have met you... I remember being in St. Luke's hospital in Kansas City, Missouri when " Little " came to visit the children in the Weinermobile. It was in the late 60's early 70's and I had a broken leg. " Little " came to my room and I remember talking to him, " you " and telling you that you were short just like me and my father! I will never forget that nor will I forget the picture of the Weinermobile that you gave to me. If I have you mistaken for someone else please forgive me. I was only about 6 maybe 7 at the time.. Sincerely, Ally - ----Original Message----- From: Micro1125@... [mailto:Micro1125@...] Sent: Saturday, September 04, 1999 1:54 PM dwarfismonelist Subject: introduction From: Micro1125@... Hi, I am a newcomer to one list. My name is Joe White, 75 years of age ,pituitary. On the subject of relations between your children and school, I was very fortunate. For 25 years, I was the Little representative for O. Mayer meat products. I rode in a vehicle known as the Weinermobile. Ever since Joe,Jr. started school, I would eriodically take him to school in this vehicle. So, throughout his first two or three years, he was looked up to as Little 's boy. He is now in his forties, married and had three children of his own. He and the children are of average height. Any response or otherwise would be appreciated. Joe --------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 4, 1999 Report Share Posted September 4, 1999 Joe, Good for you! I think that is great, I also think it is great that you are 75 years young and on the net! Wish my dad would try it sometime. Image Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 4, 1999 Report Share Posted September 4, 1999 Hi Joe, I remember you from Florida, you used to live here, I remember you from the regionals. I live in South Florida, you were in Orlando area with Beth Tatmans chapter. sounds like your doing well. keep in touch, Weiss Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 5, 1999 Report Share Posted September 5, 1999 Welcome to the list serve, youll have a lot of fun here, meeting people, deleting people and corresponding with new and old friends! Welcome from South Florida Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 14, 2000 Report Share Posted January 14, 2000 Dear Doc and All: I have made many comments on the list and it is time I introduce myself and offer some insight into why I so dedicated to " spreading the word " about HCV. First, I am a Family Nurse Practitioner in a center that is both " fast track " and primary care, in Florida. I am very interested in the subject for both personal and professional reasons. The personal reason is that my wife has HCV, and is currently undergoing combination therapy. Her exposure came after her " ex " threw her over an 8th story balcony at an Embassy Suite's Hotel, in late 89. Some many be familiar with parts of this, since this made National attention, because he was eventually court-martialed for " pre-meditated attempted murder " . It was unusual, because there are many parts that were not made as public, including allegations of " nuclear espionage " , in which the investigation is still pending. Back to the my interests on HCV. During the emergency surgery my wife had in excess of 52 units of whole blood transfused, because she developed " DIC " . Three years ago, during " routine " bloodwork, her liver enzymes were elevated, about 2 times normal. We followed the recommendations I was seeing and tested her for HCV. She tested positive, and, she was further worked up. Her enzymes shortly returned to normal, and her viral load was " undetectable " . She was advised to repeat the hepatic profile in 6 months. Her first set were still normal, but, the second set, six months later, were starting to elevate again. Her viral load was low, but detectable, HCV Quant 120 and Qual 5.8, with absolute neuts at 966. Could not find a hepatologist in the area, and the GIs insisted on a biopsy, even though therapy did not require it. Two weeks later, without a biopsy, she began the Interferon/Rebetrol Therapy. Her blood draw at this time came back with the HCV as undetectable. Like many others, her first night was hell, with chills, nausea, vomiting, and the like. This was despite her being premedicated with benadryl, phenergan and ibuprofen. Like most, her blood counts rapidly fell. Weekly blood draws were done, and her post interferon shots side effects began to decrease. We did learn to give the shots about 1-2 hours before bedtime, and she took ibuprofen just before bedtime, which relieved the side effects during the night. Like most people, she had fatigue, but, was able to work full time. She had her problems, including having to stop, after the second week of treatment, both the interferon and ribaviran for a week due to dropping counts. Her counts came back up to acceptable levels, but have always remained low. We dropped her ribaviran from 1,000 mg to 600 mg, and she has stayed on that dose. The interferon remained at 3 mu. She is beginning week 34 and her LFTs have stayed steady. Her viral loads have remained " undetectable " . She has experienced the fatigue, and, she has had some unusual reactions to certain medications taken during the treatment, such as becoming hyper, and " creapy-crawly " syndrome from medications such as benadryl, and some sleeping medications. She has had hair loss, and her weight loss has stayed steady at 20 lbs, as has her thyroid levels. She did have some effects which we can not tell if they are medication related, or coincidental. Her vision totally changed, in that she has always been farsighted, and now she can not read with her glasses. Her lactose intolerance has decreased, but she is more sensitive to cold. Because of all the research I had done on her behalf, I became more and more interested in the disease and screening any potential victims. In the last year, I have identified 63 people, who never knew they were even at risk. I have also found out how ignorant the public and medical community still are, when it comes to HCV. I try to take any and every opportunity to educate, and I hope all others are doing the same. I also got to first handily experience being the spouse, friend, and family member of someone infected. Watching her counts drop, watching her in pain, fatigue, and trying to remain optimistic and " strong " , have really taken a toll. I don't understand how anyone can go the treatment alone, because, without support, I can see how the disease may not be the only battle a patient has. The uncertainty is probably as much a problem as the actual disease and medications themselves. I know the numbers are growing, and I also believe that the word must get out to more and more people so that research and treatments will hopefully cure this epidemic. Ignorance is HCV's friend, and must be stopped. Like AIDS, this disease is consuming too many innocent victims. While AIDS, relatively speaking, was rapidly categorized in less than 10 years, HCV, has apparently been around in excess of 30 years. Yet, not much more is known today, then 5 years ago. I have tried to make one of my goals to help and assist anyone, anywhere that I can. Networking seems to be a major goal for all, and I thank you for making your site. Marty Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 14, 2000 Report Share Posted January 14, 2000 Dear Doc and All: I have made many comments on the list and it is time I introduce myself and offer some insight into why I so dedicated to " spreading the word " about HCV. First, I am a Family Nurse Practitioner in a center that is both " fast track " and primary care, in Florida. I am very interested in the subject for both personal and professional reasons. The personal reason is that my wife has HCV, and is currently undergoing combination therapy. Her exposure came after her " ex " threw her over an 8th story balcony at an Embassy Suite's Hotel, in late 89. Some many be familiar with parts of this, since this made National attention, because he was eventually court-martialed for " pre-meditated attempted murder " . It was unusual, because there are many parts that were not made as public, including allegations of " nuclear espionage " , in which the investigation is still pending. Back to the my interests on HCV. During the emergency surgery my wife had in excess of 52 units of whole blood transfused, because she developed " DIC " . Three years ago, during " routine " bloodwork, her liver enzymes were elevated, about 2 times normal. We followed the recommendations I was seeing and tested her for HCV. She tested positive, and, she was further worked up. Her enzymes shortly returned to normal, and her viral load was " undetectable " . She was advised to repeat the hepatic profile in 6 months. Her first set were still normal, but, the second set, six months later, were starting to elevate again. Her viral load was low, but detectable, HCV Quant 120 and Qual 5.8, with absolute neuts at 966. Could not find a hepatologist in the area, and the GIs insisted on a biopsy, even though therapy did not require it. Two weeks later, without a biopsy, she began the Interferon/Rebetrol Therapy. Her blood draw at this time came back with the HCV as undetectable. Like many others, her first night was hell, with chills, nausea, vomiting, and the like. This was despite her being premedicated with benadryl, phenergan and ibuprofen. Like most, her blood counts rapidly fell. Weekly blood draws were done, and her post interferon shots side effects began to decrease. We did learn to give the shots about 1-2 hours before bedtime, and she took ibuprofen just before bedtime, which relieved the side effects during the night. Like most people, she had fatigue, but, was able to work full time. She had her problems, including having to stop, after the second week of treatment, both the interferon and ribaviran for a week due to dropping counts. Her counts came back up to acceptable levels, but have always remained low. We dropped her ribaviran from 1,000 mg to 600 mg, and she has stayed on that dose. The interferon remained at 3 mu. She is beginning week 34 and her LFTs have stayed steady. Her viral loads have remained " undetectable " . She has experienced the fatigue, and, she has had some unusual reactions to certain medications taken during the treatment, such as becoming hyper, and " creapy-crawly " syndrome from medications such as benadryl, and some sleeping medications. She has had hair loss, and her weight loss has stayed steady at 20 lbs, as has her thyroid levels. She did have some effects which we can not tell if they are medication related, or coincidental. Her vision totally changed, in that she has always been farsighted, and now she can not read with her glasses. Her lactose intolerance has decreased, but she is more sensitive to cold. Because of all the research I had done on her behalf, I became more and more interested in the disease and screening any potential victims. In the last year, I have identified 63 people, who never knew they were even at risk. I have also found out how ignorant the public and medical community still are, when it comes to HCV. I try to take any and every opportunity to educate, and I hope all others are doing the same. I also got to first handily experience being the spouse, friend, and family member of someone infected. Watching her counts drop, watching her in pain, fatigue, and trying to remain optimistic and " strong " , have really taken a toll. I don't understand how anyone can go the treatment alone, because, without support, I can see how the disease may not be the only battle a patient has. The uncertainty is probably as much a problem as the actual disease and medications themselves. I know the numbers are growing, and I also believe that the word must get out to more and more people so that research and treatments will hopefully cure this epidemic. Ignorance is HCV's friend, and must be stopped. Like AIDS, this disease is consuming too many innocent victims. While AIDS, relatively speaking, was rapidly categorized in less than 10 years, HCV, has apparently been around in excess of 30 years. Yet, not much more is known today, then 5 years ago. I have tried to make one of my goals to help and assist anyone, anywhere that I can. Networking seems to be a major goal for all, and I thank you for making your site. Marty Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 16, 2000 Report Share Posted January 16, 2000 Marty, Carry on your good work, more dedicated people like you go a long way in the fight against HCV. Dr SC Misra Re: Introduction From: " byteme " <byteme@...> Dear Doc and All: I have made many comments on the list and it is time I introduce myself and offer some insight into why I so dedicated to " spreading the word " about HCV. First, I am a Family Nurse Practitioner in a center that is both " fast track " and primary care, in Florida. I am very interested in the subject for both personal and professional reasons. The personal reason is that my wife has HCV, and is currently undergoing combination therapy. Her exposure came after her " ex " threw her over an 8th story balcony at an Embassy Suite's Hotel, in late 89. Some many be familiar with parts of this, since this made National attention, because he was eventually court-martialed for " pre-meditated attempted murder " . It was unusual, because there are many parts that were not made as public, including allegations of " nuclear espionage " , in which the investigation is still pending. Back to the my interests on HCV. During the emergency surgery my wife had in excess of 52 units of whole blood transfused, because she developed " DIC " . Three years ago, during " routine " bloodwork, her liver enzymes were elevated, about 2 times normal. We followed the recommendations I was seeing and tested her for HCV. She tested positive, and, she was further worked up. Her enzymes shortly returned to normal, and her viral load was " undetectable " . She was advised to repeat the hepatic profile in 6 months. Her first set were still normal, but, the second set, six months later, were starting to elevate again. Her viral load was low, but detectable, HCV Quant 120 and Qual 5.8, with absolute neuts at 966. Could not find a hepatologist in the area, and the GIs insisted on a biopsy, even though therapy did not require it. Two weeks later, without a biopsy, she began the Interferon/Rebetrol Therapy. Her blood draw at this time came back with the HCV as undetectable. Like many others, her first night was hell, with chills, nausea, vomiting, and the like. This was despite her being premedicated with benadryl, phenergan and ibuprofen. Like most, her blood counts rapidly fell. Weekly blood draws were done, and her post interferon shots side effects began to decrease. We did learn to give the shots about 1-2 hours before bedtime, and she took ibuprofen just before bedtime, which relieved the side effects during the night. Like most people, she had fatigue, but, was able to work full time. She had her problems, including having to stop, after the second week of treatment, both the interferon and ribaviran for a week due to dropping counts. Her counts came back up to acceptable levels, but have always remained low. We dropped her ribaviran from 1,000 mg to 600 mg, and she has stayed on that dose. The interferon remained at 3 mu. She is beginning week 34 and her LFTs have stayed steady. Her viral loads have remained " undetectable " . She has experienced the fatigue, and, she has had some unusual reactions to certain medications taken during the treatment, such as becoming hyper, and " creapy-crawly " syndrome from medications such as benadryl, and some sleeping medications. She has had hair loss, and her weight loss has stayed steady at 20 lbs, as has her thyroid levels. She did have some effects which we can not tell if they are medication related, or coincidental. Her vision totally changed, in that she has always been farsighted, and now she can not read with her glasses. Her lactose intolerance has decreased, but she is more sensitive to cold. Because of all the research I had done on her behalf, I became more and more interested in the disease and screening any potential victims. In the last year, I have identified 63 people, who never knew they were even at risk. I have also found out how ignorant the public and medical community still are, when it comes to HCV. I try to take any and every opportunity to educate, and I hope all others are doing the same. I also got to first handily experience being the spouse, friend, and family member of someone infected. Watching her counts drop, watching her in pain, fatigue, and trying to remain optimistic and " strong " , have really taken a toll. I don't understand how anyone can go the treatment alone, because, without support, I can see how the disease may not be the only battle a patient has. The uncertainty is probably as much a problem as the actual disease and medications themselves. I know the numbers are growing, and I also believe that the word must get out to more and more people so that research and treatments will hopefully cure this epidemic. Ignorance is HCV's friend, and must be stopped. Like AIDS, this disease is consuming too many innocent victims. While AIDS, relatively speaking, was rapidly categorized in less than 10 years, HCV, has apparently been around in excess of 30 years. Yet, not much more is known today, then 5 years ago. I have tried to make one of my goals to help and assist anyone, anywhere that I can. Networking seems to be a major goal for all, and I thank you for making your site. Marty Please click above to support our sponsor Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 16, 2000 Report Share Posted January 16, 2000 Marty, Carry on your good work, more dedicated people like you go a long way in the fight against HCV. Dr SC Misra Re: Introduction From: " byteme " <byteme@...> Dear Doc and All: I have made many comments on the list and it is time I introduce myself and offer some insight into why I so dedicated to " spreading the word " about HCV. First, I am a Family Nurse Practitioner in a center that is both " fast track " and primary care, in Florida. I am very interested in the subject for both personal and professional reasons. The personal reason is that my wife has HCV, and is currently undergoing combination therapy. Her exposure came after her " ex " threw her over an 8th story balcony at an Embassy Suite's Hotel, in late 89. Some many be familiar with parts of this, since this made National attention, because he was eventually court-martialed for " pre-meditated attempted murder " . It was unusual, because there are many parts that were not made as public, including allegations of " nuclear espionage " , in which the investigation is still pending. Back to the my interests on HCV. During the emergency surgery my wife had in excess of 52 units of whole blood transfused, because she developed " DIC " . Three years ago, during " routine " bloodwork, her liver enzymes were elevated, about 2 times normal. We followed the recommendations I was seeing and tested her for HCV. She tested positive, and, she was further worked up. Her enzymes shortly returned to normal, and her viral load was " undetectable " . She was advised to repeat the hepatic profile in 6 months. Her first set were still normal, but, the second set, six months later, were starting to elevate again. Her viral load was low, but detectable, HCV Quant 120 and Qual 5.8, with absolute neuts at 966. Could not find a hepatologist in the area, and the GIs insisted on a biopsy, even though therapy did not require it. Two weeks later, without a biopsy, she began the Interferon/Rebetrol Therapy. Her blood draw at this time came back with the HCV as undetectable. Like many others, her first night was hell, with chills, nausea, vomiting, and the like. This was despite her being premedicated with benadryl, phenergan and ibuprofen. Like most, her blood counts rapidly fell. Weekly blood draws were done, and her post interferon shots side effects began to decrease. We did learn to give the shots about 1-2 hours before bedtime, and she took ibuprofen just before bedtime, which relieved the side effects during the night. Like most people, she had fatigue, but, was able to work full time. She had her problems, including having to stop, after the second week of treatment, both the interferon and ribaviran for a week due to dropping counts. Her counts came back up to acceptable levels, but have always remained low. We dropped her ribaviran from 1,000 mg to 600 mg, and she has stayed on that dose. The interferon remained at 3 mu. She is beginning week 34 and her LFTs have stayed steady. Her viral loads have remained " undetectable " . She has experienced the fatigue, and, she has had some unusual reactions to certain medications taken during the treatment, such as becoming hyper, and " creapy-crawly " syndrome from medications such as benadryl, and some sleeping medications. She has had hair loss, and her weight loss has stayed steady at 20 lbs, as has her thyroid levels. She did have some effects which we can not tell if they are medication related, or coincidental. Her vision totally changed, in that she has always been farsighted, and now she can not read with her glasses. Her lactose intolerance has decreased, but she is more sensitive to cold. Because of all the research I had done on her behalf, I became more and more interested in the disease and screening any potential victims. In the last year, I have identified 63 people, who never knew they were even at risk. I have also found out how ignorant the public and medical community still are, when it comes to HCV. I try to take any and every opportunity to educate, and I hope all others are doing the same. I also got to first handily experience being the spouse, friend, and family member of someone infected. Watching her counts drop, watching her in pain, fatigue, and trying to remain optimistic and " strong " , have really taken a toll. I don't understand how anyone can go the treatment alone, because, without support, I can see how the disease may not be the only battle a patient has. The uncertainty is probably as much a problem as the actual disease and medications themselves. I know the numbers are growing, and I also believe that the word must get out to more and more people so that research and treatments will hopefully cure this epidemic. Ignorance is HCV's friend, and must be stopped. Like AIDS, this disease is consuming too many innocent victims. While AIDS, relatively speaking, was rapidly categorized in less than 10 years, HCV, has apparently been around in excess of 30 years. Yet, not much more is known today, then 5 years ago. I have tried to make one of my goals to help and assist anyone, anywhere that I can. Networking seems to be a major goal for all, and I thank you for making your site. Marty Please click above to support our sponsor Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 15, 2000 Report Share Posted April 15, 2000 , I think I may have said this before, but here goes again - your sister is very lucky to have you! She sounds like a real trooper too. Hopefully she will handle the combo well. And most importantly, I hope it works! 3's usually respond pretty well. Good luck to both of you. Claudine ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 15, 2000 Report Share Posted April 15, 2000 I wish your sis the best! I talked to a lady in hepc delphi chat yesterday who accidentally shot interferon in a vein and now she has seizures all the time. ew! alley/ ICQ 12631861 alleypat@... http://www.flash.net/~alleypat Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 15, 2000 Report Share Posted April 15, 2000 Wow, , What a story! I believe that your parents would be extremely proud of their daughters, both of them! You are doing great....supporting her with info and such is probably helping her more than you can ever know. And, if she's like me, it's very difficult to express deep appreciation for family members. So hang in there, both of you.......and may God bless you both! A friend in Arkansas, Betty Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 15, 2000 Report Share Posted April 15, 2000 Dear : What a great sister you are! Your sister may not have much to be thankful for right now, but she sure has you to be thankful for! Wish I had a sis like you! Take care, Diane P.S. You're a great writer, too! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 25, 2000 Report Share Posted June 25, 2000 Welcome to the list, I am in Huntsville, AL. A 30 year old female Tammy NOTHING IS BEYOND THE REACH OF DETERMINATION!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 17, 2000 Report Share Posted October 17, 2000 Jenn Welcome to the group - you will get a lot of help from this group and they really care a lot about each other. We all have to stick together. My husband is the one who has the Hep C in our family and it has been a struggle but you learn and find a way to deal with it. His liver biopsy didn't go quite as well as the others here and he did have a lot of pain after wards but as far as the biopsy went he did fine. He has been on the treatment for 11 months with one more we hope left. I give him the shots since he is not to fond of needles. He takes other medications for the side effects of the Combo treatment. What kind of doctor are you seeing? Please like the others said learn all you can about it before you make any decisions. Let us know how we can help because it is scary and the more you know the better you handle it. Stress is the worse thing for Hep C so let us ease your stress and help you through this. Stay positive that is the best medicine. Winne Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 17, 2000 Report Share Posted October 17, 2000 Jenn Welcome to the group - you will get a lot of help from this group and they really care a lot about each other. We all have to stick together. My husband is the one who has the Hep C in our family and it has been a struggle but you learn and find a way to deal with it. His liver biopsy didn't go quite as well as the others here and he did have a lot of pain after wards but as far as the biopsy went he did fine. He has been on the treatment for 11 months with one more we hope left. I give him the shots since he is not to fond of needles. He takes other medications for the side effects of the Combo treatment. What kind of doctor are you seeing? Please like the others said learn all you can about it before you make any decisions. Let us know how we can help because it is scary and the more you know the better you handle it. Stress is the worse thing for Hep C so let us ease your stress and help you through this. Stay positive that is the best medicine. Winne Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 17, 2000 Report Share Posted October 17, 2000 Hi Jenn, Welcome to this group. I'm glad you found us! While no two people will have the same experience during their biopsy, usually it is not too bad. The whole thing is over so fast it is unbelievable. My doctor kept telling me it only took a second, and he wasn't minimizing it at all. I did not receive any pain meds or sedation ahead of time, and the procedure itself didn't hurt at all, although I did have some pain afterwards, whenever I took a deep breath. I was given some demerol, and that took care of it very well. The worst part of the whole thing was having to lay on my side on those rolled up towels after it was over. That is supposed to help prevent bleeding, although I've heard some docs don't do that any more. My most important piece of advice for you though is to NOT jump into any treatment program right away. Give yourself a chance to learn as much as you can first, both about this disease, and also about the treatment available. This disease normally progresses very slowly, so there is rarely a reason to jump into treatment very quickly. After your biopsy you will have a better idea where you stand, how much damage there has been to your liver. You may find out that there is little damage at all, and no need to rush into this available treatment that is successful in only 40% of people. Pegylated interferons will be approved soon, within only a few months, and when used with ribavirin they work much, much better than the current treatment. (Even without ribavirin they work as well as the current combo.) Also, there is only one injection a week instead of three (which is done by you at home, by the way), and the side effects are supposed to be easier to handle. At least give yourself the chance to learn about and weigh all your options before making a decision. Besides, it's a pretty big decision when you're still in shock from finding out you have this disease! I have some info on biopsies, I will dig it out and post it for you. Good luck! Claudine __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 17, 2000 Report Share Posted October 17, 2000 Hi Jenn, Welcome to this group. I'm glad you found us! While no two people will have the same experience during their biopsy, usually it is not too bad. The whole thing is over so fast it is unbelievable. My doctor kept telling me it only took a second, and he wasn't minimizing it at all. I did not receive any pain meds or sedation ahead of time, and the procedure itself didn't hurt at all, although I did have some pain afterwards, whenever I took a deep breath. I was given some demerol, and that took care of it very well. The worst part of the whole thing was having to lay on my side on those rolled up towels after it was over. That is supposed to help prevent bleeding, although I've heard some docs don't do that any more. My most important piece of advice for you though is to NOT jump into any treatment program right away. Give yourself a chance to learn as much as you can first, both about this disease, and also about the treatment available. This disease normally progresses very slowly, so there is rarely a reason to jump into treatment very quickly. After your biopsy you will have a better idea where you stand, how much damage there has been to your liver. You may find out that there is little damage at all, and no need to rush into this available treatment that is successful in only 40% of people. Pegylated interferons will be approved soon, within only a few months, and when used with ribavirin they work much, much better than the current treatment. (Even without ribavirin they work as well as the current combo.) Also, there is only one injection a week instead of three (which is done by you at home, by the way), and the side effects are supposed to be easier to handle. At least give yourself the chance to learn about and weigh all your options before making a decision. Besides, it's a pretty big decision when you're still in shock from finding out you have this disease! I have some info on biopsies, I will dig it out and post it for you. Good luck! Claudine __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 17, 2000 Report Share Posted October 17, 2000 Jenn so nice to meet you! Sorry to have ot meet you here but this is a great list. I'm on my 5th month of combo. My biopsy was a breeze. Take a good book it's rather boring really. If YOU are relaxed, your biopsy will go better. Course, my gastro was a hunk, so who was thinking liver? Shots are piece a cake. Pen is tiny needle " dial a dose " . I just stab my fat At first hubby helped me with shots, but no need now unless I wanna to my right arm. I'm not so good pulling out straight with left hand. After the first shot of treatment (interferon) the hep joint pain went away. I was so releived! Mostly the tx (treatment) makes me tired and it seems to be accumulative. I tend to get migraines and the tx and recent stress haven't helped there. I would recommend starting a good anti depressant before tx.. good i mean by one that works well for you. I'm no medical expert.. just my opinion. Also, be sure your doc will help you with sides. What are his recomendations if you get sides with meds? I try to write down stuff so I don't forget. Get plenty of REST and drink tons of WATER. Makes you feel so much better. I do 6 riba a day, and one 3 msomething lol interferon every other day. Good luck and ask any questions you got alley/ ICQ 12631861 alleypat@... http://www.flash.net/~alleypat Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 17, 2000 Report Share Posted October 17, 2000 Claudine said <<My most important piece of advice for you though is to NOT jump into any treatment program right away. Give yourself a chance to learn as much as you can first, both about this disease, and also about the treatment available. >> I heartily agree. Make informed choices with you and your doc. What works for me is just for me. Something totally different may work for you. Good luck and you have our best wishes alley/ ICQ 12631861 alleypat@... http://www.flash.net/~alleypat Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 17, 2000 Report Share Posted October 17, 2000 Claudine said <<My most important piece of advice for you though is to NOT jump into any treatment program right away. Give yourself a chance to learn as much as you can first, both about this disease, and also about the treatment available. >> I heartily agree. Make informed choices with you and your doc. What works for me is just for me. Something totally different may work for you. Good luck and you have our best wishes alley/ ICQ 12631861 alleypat@... http://www.flash.net/~alleypat Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 18, 2000 Report Share Posted October 18, 2000 Hi Jen, I was scared like you also. The fear was worse than the biopsy. The biopsy was a piece of cake, they had to snip 2 times because he did not get enough the first time. I really did not feel much but a little snip feeling and a little pain up in my shoulder area when they took 2nd piece. Was just, really nothing and then they took me to a room in the hospital and I had to stay 8 hours. They asked me if I needed something for pain and I told them no, because I didn't. You will learn to give the shots to yourself I use to use the top of my thighs. I learned something here on the list about the injections. They would always burn when I injected them. I found out here to let them get to room temp and not to inject them right out of the fridge. There are a lot of nice people here to support you in any way you need. So, Jenn, Welcome to the Group...Connie __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 18, 2000 Report Share Posted October 18, 2000 Hi Jen, I was scared like you also. The fear was worse than the biopsy. The biopsy was a piece of cake, they had to snip 2 times because he did not get enough the first time. I really did not feel much but a little snip feeling and a little pain up in my shoulder area when they took 2nd piece. Was just, really nothing and then they took me to a room in the hospital and I had to stay 8 hours. They asked me if I needed something for pain and I told them no, because I didn't. You will learn to give the shots to yourself I use to use the top of my thighs. I learned something here on the list about the injections. They would always burn when I injected them. I found out here to let them get to room temp and not to inject them right out of the fridge. There are a lot of nice people here to support you in any way you need. So, Jenn, Welcome to the Group...Connie __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 18, 2000 Report Share Posted October 18, 2000 Jenn, Welcome to the group! I remember all too well when I first found out, I wasn't quite as scared as you, but any procedure is scary. It hurts, although some people describe it as a little pinch. I would recommend your dr give you something before the procedure to help you relax to make it easier, being tense only makes it worse. They had to stick me twice because they didn't get a big enough piece, then afterward my hemoglobin went way down and had to be given pain meds , which didn't really help either so they gave me a IM shot which took care of the pain , then I was fine so do not be afraid to ask for pain meds if you need them. I know a lot of other people on this group had no trouble so it really is individualist , you never know, I myself do not deal well with pain and have a very low threshold. Combo therapy surprised me, I read all the side effects everyone was having and figured I'd have the worst. which turned out to be all right because then when the symptoms weren't that bad, I felt pretty good, it is rough, depends again on your body first week or two I was okay, but then by week 3-4 I wanted to quit, didn't think I could handle it any more, again it is important to take care of the side effects, my main ones were muscle aches, Headaches, and the nausea, tried to do without meds fro the headaches besides tylenol or motrin, and the nausea, so let the doc know when you get these or even talk to him before they are like migraine headaches sometimes, not always and some people have had a hard time getting the docs to give them anything. so I think if you ask about them before you'll be okay just to let him/ her know if you do develop the symptoms you want to have something available without a bunch of hassle, because you don't feel like hassles on this medicine. well take care and keep in touch. hope this helped. Suzy From: " jenn fisher " <jenniboop2@...> Reply-Hepatitis Cegroups Hepatitis Cegroups Subject: introduction Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 21:30:25 PDT Hi, My name is Jenn, and I am new to the list. I was just recently diognosed(i cant spell )and I am going for my biopsy on the 2nd(nov). I am realy nervous and scared about it. Please tell me that its not that bad, can anyone tell me if it is painful and how you feel after? My Dr. said we could just skipp it if I was that affraid, and go straight into treatment but I know I have to do it sooner or later. I'm not realy looking forward to the combo therapy either. How do you take your injections of the interferon(?) do you do it yourself or do you have to go to the Dr. 3 times a week, wich seems unrealistic espeacialy if you have to go for 12 month treatment. Well thanks and take care, Jenn _________________________________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free E-mail from MSN Hotmail at http://www.hotmail.com. Share information about yourself, create your own public profile at http://profiles.msn.com. _________________________________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free E-mail from MSN Hotmail at http://www.hotmail.com. Share information about yourself, create your own public profile at http://profiles.msn.com. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.