Re: Voting for Cures/Remissions/SVR

[Guest guest]

There's something that I have also wondered. Some folks here are very verbal, most very quiet, I do hope many will speak up on this. I think many of us would really like to know.. It may help others make a more educated decision, as well.. I tried to treat, did not come lightly to that decision, but reached undectable between weeks 4 and 5 and then had to stop treatment at week 10, mainly due to my husband becoming very ill. I belive the virus was back stronger than ever within weeks. I have not returned to the doctor, but I sure have my hopes set on Vertex, the protease inhibitor still in clinical trials.. Sheena "Dr.Somenath Mitra" wrote: Dear Friends,I know there are over 800 members in this group.Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & howmany have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have notundergone any active treatment ?All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journalsshould be evident in a real life setting.Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than believinga 2nd hand data.Thanks for participating.Best WishesSomenath-- "Live for a cause not applause. Live to

express not impress..."

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[Guest guest]

I've been on treatment 3 times. Reached SVR all 3 during treatment,

but within 3 months of completion, viral numbers back up. So far, no

good for me. Perhaps Vertex!

>

> Dear Friends,

>

> I know there are over 800 members in this group.

>

> Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how

> many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not

> undergone any active treatment ?

>

> All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals

> should be evident in a real life setting.

>

> Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than

believing

> a 2nd hand data.

>

> Thanks for participating.

>

> Best Wishes

>

> Somenath

>

>

> --

> " Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress... "

>

[Guest guest]

Rick, I have to wonder what might be the cause of this, you don't drink alcohol? Are you majorly overweight, highly stressed or on many conventional meds? There has to be some reason why some reach SVR and don't remiss and others fail. I think that's also something we'd all like to know.. I know I would before I try again.. Wonder how close that Vertex is getting! Sheena Rick Kipp wrote: I've been on treatment 3 times. Reached SVR all 3 during treatment, but within 3 months of completion, viral numbers back up. So far, no good for me. Perhaps Vertex!>> Dear Friends,> > I know there are over 800 members in this group.> > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how> many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how

many have not> undergone any active treatment ?> > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals> should be evident in a real life setting.> > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than believing> a 2nd hand data.> > Thanks for participating.> > Best Wishes> > Somenath> > > -- > "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress...">

between 0000-00-00 and 9999-99-99

[Guest guest]

Yes, I did drink through all 3 treatments and was overweight (265

then, 180 now). Dumb and Dumber! I stopped AFTER my 3rd treatment,

and I now know I never gave myself a chance. I drank heavier on

treatment, just to try to cover the side effects! Oh, well. Now all

my numbers are holding very steady, and I go for another ultrasound

next week. The Doc is keeping a good eye on me, and now that I'm

sober, I am on a healthy diet and have my thoughts on tomorrow and

the future. My Doc said that Vertex could be out late 2008, or 2009

for sure, pending FDA approval. It's in the final stage, stage 3, of

testing and so far the results are quite good.

In Hepatitis_C_Central , Sheena

wrote:

>

> Rick, I have to wonder what might be the cause of this,

> you don't drink alcohol? Are you majorly overweight,

> highly stressed or on many conventional meds?

> There has to be some reason why some reach SVR

> and don't remiss and others fail.

> I think that's also something we'd all like to know..

> I know I would before I try again..

> Wonder how close that Vertex is getting!

>

> Sheena

>

>

>

>

> Rick Kipp wrote:

> I've been on treatment 3 times. Reached SVR all 3 during

treatment,

> but within 3 months of completion, viral numbers back up. So far,

no

> good for me. Perhaps Vertex!

>

>

> >

> > Dear Friends,

> >

> > I know there are over 800 members in this group.

> >

> > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how

> > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not

> > undergone any active treatment ?

> >

> > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals

> > should be evident in a real life setting.

> >

> > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than

> believing

> > a 2nd hand data.

> >

> > Thanks for participating.

> >

> > Best Wishes

> >

> > Somenath

> >

> >

> > --

> > " Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress... "

> >

>

>

>

>

>

> between 0000-00-00 and 9999-99-99

>

[Guest guest]

WOW! Good for you, Rick, you will make it 4th try! I think many will give the Vertex a shot.. 2009 right around the corner! Rick Kipp wrote: Yes, I did drink through all 3 treatments and was overweight (265 then, 180 now). Dumb and Dumber! I stopped AFTER my 3rd treatment, and I now know I never gave myself a chance. I drank heavier on

treatment, just to try to cover the side effects! Oh, well. Now all my numbers are holding very steady, and I go for another ultrasound next week. The Doc is keeping a good eye on me, and now that I'm sober, I am on a healthy diet and have my thoughts on tomorrow and the future. My Doc said that Vertex could be out late 2008, or 2009 for sure, pending FDA approval. It's in the final stage, stage 3, of testing and so far the results are quite good.In Hepatitis_C_Central , Sheena wrote:>> Rick, I have to wonder what might be the cause of this, > you don't drink alcohol? Are you majorly overweight, > highly stressed or on many conventional meds?> There has to be some reason why some reach SVR> and don't remiss and others fail.> I think that's also something we'd all like to

know..> I know I would before I try again..> Wonder how close that Vertex is getting!> > Sheena> > > > > Rick Kipp wrote:> I've been on treatment 3 times. Reached SVR all 3 during treatment, > but within 3 months of completion, viral numbers back up. So far, no > good for me. Perhaps Vertex!> > > >> > Dear Friends,> > > > I know there are over 800 members in this group.> > > > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how> > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not> > undergone any active treatment ?> > > > All that 20-40% data

on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals> > should be evident in a real life setting.> > > > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than > believing> > a 2nd hand data.> > > > Thanks for participating.> > > > Best Wishes> > > > Somenath> > > > > > -- > > "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..."> >> > > > > > between 0000-00-00 and 9999-99-99>

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now.

[Guest guest]

I came close to clearing a few yrs ago but my heart problems made it necessary to stop treatment . Although the % rates aren't as high as most would like standard treatment is still the only way to acheive a sustained viralogical response (SVR) Alternative medicine can only keep the viral load and damage from increasing , but interferon's and ribavirons can erradicate and stop it in those that are lucky .

Voting for Cures/Remissions/SVR

Dear Friends,I know there are over 800 members in this group.Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & howmany have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have notundergone any active treatment ?All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journalsshould be evident in a real life setting.Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than believinga 2nd hand data.Thanks for participating.Best WishesSomenath-- "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..."

[Guest guest]

I have NEVER known ANYONE to reach SVR if they drank alcohol during treatment.. that was insane Rick, Im so glad you have stopped and maybe now you can treat and be successful!Rick Kipp wrote: Yes, I did drink through all 3 treatments and was overweight (265 then, 180 now). Dumb and Dumber! I stopped AFTER my 3rd treatment, and I now know I never gave myself a chance. I drank heavier on treatment, just to try to cover the side effects! Oh, well. Now all my numbers are holding very steady, and I go for

another ultrasound next week. The Doc is keeping a good eye on me, and now that I'm sober, I am on a healthy diet and have my thoughts on tomorrow and the future. My Doc said that Vertex could be out late 2008, or 2009 for sure, pending FDA approval. It's in the final stage, stage 3, of testing and so far the results are quite good. In Hepatitis_C_Central , Sheena wrote: > > Rick, I have to wonder what might be the cause of this, > you don't drink alcohol? Are you majorly overweight, > highly stressed or on many conventional meds? > There has to be some reason why some reach SVR > and don't remiss and others fail. > I think that's also something we'd all like to know.. > I know I would before I try again.. > Wonder how close that Vertex is

getting! > > Sheena > > > > > Rick Kipp wrote: > I've been on treatment 3 times. Reached SVR all 3 during treatment, > but within 3 months of completion, viral numbers back up. So far, no > good for me. Perhaps Vertex! > > > > > > Dear Friends, > > > > I know there are over 800 members in this group. > > > > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how > > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not > > undergone any active treatment ? > > > > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs &

Journals > > should be evident in a real life setting. > > > > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than > believing > > a 2nd hand data. > > > > Thanks for participating. > > > > Best Wishes > > > > Somenath > > > > > > -- > > "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..." > > > > > > > > between 0000-00-00 and 9999-99-99 > Jackie

[Guest guest]

HiI am Jackie or Jax. It's been 5 years since I finished my tx, am still SVR as far as I know but allopathic tx did in fact leave me very damaged. I am a geno 1a had stage 3-4 with early cirrhosis and grade 3 inflammation. My alt and ast were elevated prior to starting tx but immediately dropped into the 'normal' range and have stayed there since my first blood test after starting treatment. All my other liver function tests were normal even when I was first diagnosed and still are. I am supposed to go in for my labs soon to see if Im still SVR.. I imagine that I am still,, or maybe thats just 'hope'..... If you have any further questions about my treatment etc, just feel free to ask. "Dr.Somenath Mitra" wrote: Dear Friends, I know there are over 800 members in this group. Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not undergone any active treatment ? All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals should be evident in a real life setting. Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than believing a 2nd hand data. Thanks for participating. Best Wishes Somenath -- "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..." Jackie

[Guest guest]

I have never treated.

-- In Hepatitis_C_Central , " Dr.Somenath Mitra "

wrote:

>

> Dear Friends,

>

> I know there are over 800 members in this group.

>

> Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how

> many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not

> undergone any active treatment ?

>

> All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals

> should be evident in a real life setting.

>

> Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than

believing

> a 2nd hand data.

>

> Thanks for participating.

>

> Best Wishes

>

> Somenath

>

>

> --

> " Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress... "

>

[Guest guest]

rick i dont know about all the other stuff, but i do know this, i have me and my life might not be the best life , but im not in jail, im not running, im not homeless , im not hurting others, im not hurting myself, and i enjoy things now cause i finally cane see things like beautifull trees and interesting birds, and the smell of spring and fresh cut grass, and if i sit there quitely i hear all kinds of sounds that never knew exsisted, im glad yr sober ,,,,im glad your given it a chance, its not the easiest thing ive ever done, but its the smartes, i havent had a drink in a few years and now im so mad and afraid of it, i dont wanna see it, or be near it,,,good luck and best wishes, and all of this joyceRick Kipp wrote: Yes, I did drink through all 3 treatments and was overweight (265 then, 180 now). Dumb and Dumber! I stopped AFTER my 3rd treatment, and I now know I never gave myself a chance. I drank heavier on treatment, just to try to cover the side effects! Oh, well. Now all my numbers are holding very steady, and I go for another ultrasound next week. The Doc is keeping a good eye on me, and now that I'm sober, I am on a healthy diet and have my thoughts on tomorrow and the future. My Doc said that Vertex could be out late 2008, or 2009 for sure, pending FDA approval. It's in the final stage, stage 3, of testing and so far the results are quite good.In Hepatitis_C_Central , Sheena wrote:>> Rick, I have to wonder what might be the cause of this, > you don't drink alcohol? Are you majorly overweight, > highly stressed or on many conventional meds?> There has to be some reason why some reach SVR> and don't remiss and others fail.> I think that's also something we'd all like to know..> I know I would before I try again..> Wonder how close that Vertex is getting!> > Sheena> > > > > Rick Kipp wrote:> I've been on treatment 3 times. Reached SVR all 3 during treatment, > but within 3 months of completion, viral numbers back up. So far, no > good for me. Perhaps Vertex!> > > >> > Dear Friends,> > > > I know there are over 800 members in this group.> > > > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how> > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not> > undergone any active treatment ?> > > > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals> > should be evident in a real life setting.> > > > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than > believing> > a 2nd hand data.> > > > Thanks for participating.> > > > Best Wishes> > > > Somenath> > > > > > -- > > "Live for

a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..."> >> > > > > > between 0000-00-00 and 9999-99-99>

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now.

[Guest guest]

I am sure that the members here will be happy to share their stories. As far as running a vote, it might be a little hard to collect data as most folks are just reading and seldom post unless they have a question or want to report something to us. Janet "Dr.Somenath Mitra" wrote: Dear Friends,I know there are over 800 members in this group.Lets run a vote

as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & howmany have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have notundergone any active treatment ?All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journalsshould be evident in a real life setting.Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than believinga 2nd hand data.Thanks for participating.Best WishesSomenath-- "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress...""There are souls in this world that have the gift of finding joy everywhere and of leaving it behind them when they go" Frederick Faber

[Guest guest]

I finished treatment last year and reached SVR in August.

Rick, If you relapsed less than 6 months after treatment, you never

reached SVR. SVR is Sustained Viral Response.

LEE

> >

> > Dear Friends,

> >

> > I know there are over 800 members in this group.

> >

> > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how

> > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not

> > undergone any active treatment ?

> >

> > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals

> > should be evident in a real life setting.

> >

> > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than

> believing

> > a 2nd hand data.

> >

> > Thanks for participating.

> >

> > Best Wishes

> >

> > Somenath

> >

> >

> > --

> > " Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress... "

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Hey Lee was just thinking of you. You have been the subject of topic in our house. LOL I planted some of the basil you sent me, and I am getting little nubbies sticking up out of the ground. Also some of the chocolate peppers. Now I wonder what those are going to be like. You are much loved in this household. Now what I need to do is make a visit to your nursery for some plants. Maybe in the fall for the fall season. Love JanetLee wrote: I finished treatment last year and reached SVR in August.Rick, If you relapsed less than 6 months after treatment, you never reached SVR. SVR is Sustained Viral Response.LEE> >> > Dear Friends,> > > > I know there are over 800 members in this

group.> > > > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how> > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not> > undergone any active treatment ?> > > > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals> > should be evident in a real life setting.> > > > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than > believing> > a 2nd hand data.> > > > Thanks for participating.> > > > Best Wishes> > > > Somenath> > > > > > -- > > "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..."> >>"There are souls in this world that have the gift of finding joy everywhere and of leaving it behind them when they

go" Frederick Faber

[Guest guest]

Me too Sheena, We are putting money back in savings just in case. Love JanetSheena wrote: WOW! Good for you, Rick, you will make it 4th try! I think many will give the Vertex a shot.. 2009 right around the corner! Rick Kipp <rickkippearthlink (DOT) net> wrote: Yes, I did drink through all 3 treatments and was overweight (265 then, 180 now). Dumb and Dumber! I stopped AFTER my 3rd treatment, and I now know I never gave myself a chance. I drank heavier on treatment, just to try to cover the side effects! Oh, well. Now all my numbers are holding very steady, and I go for another ultrasound next week. The Doc is keeping a good eye on me, and now that I'm sober, I am on a healthy diet and have my thoughts on tomorrow and the future. My Doc said that Vertex could be out late 2008, or 2009 for sure, pending FDA approval. It's in the final stage, stage 3, of testing and so far the results are quite good.In Hepatitis_C_Central , Sheena

wrote:>> Rick, I have to wonder what might be the cause of this, > you don't drink alcohol? Are you majorly overweight, > highly stressed or on many conventional meds?> There has to be some reason why some reach SVR> and don't remiss and others fail.> I think that's also something we'd all like to know..> I know I would before I try again..> Wonder how close that Vertex is getting!> > Sheena> > > > > Rick Kipp wrote:> I've been on treatment 3 times. Reached SVR all 3 during treatment, > but within 3 months of completion, viral numbers back up. So far, no > good for me. Perhaps Vertex!> > > >> > Dear Friends,> > > > I know there are over 800 members in this group.> > > > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how> > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not> > undergone any active treatment ?> > > > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals> > should be evident in a real life setting.> > > > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than > believing> > a 2nd hand data.> > > > Thanks for participating.> > > > Best Wishes> > > > Somenath> > > > > > -- > > "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..."> >> > > > > > between 0000-00-00 and

9999-99-99> Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. "There are souls in this world that have the gift of finding joy everywhere and of leaving it behind them when they

go" Frederick Faber

[Guest guest]

I am hoping we can extend our Cobra Insurance, or I will have to wait for a few more years. There may be many of us trying again..at the same time! Love, Sheena Janet wrote: Me too Sheena, We are putting money back in savings just in case. Love JanetSheena <mom4possums2002> wrote: WOW! Good for you, Rick, you will make it 4th try! I think many will give the Vertex a shot.. 2009 right around the corner! Rick Kipp <rickkippearthlink (DOT) net> wrote: Yes, I did drink through all 3 treatments and was overweight (265 then, 180 now). Dumb and Dumber! I stopped AFTER my 3rd treatment, and I now know I never gave

myself a chance. I drank heavier on treatment, just to try to cover the side effects! Oh, well. Now all my numbers are holding very steady, and I go for another ultrasound next week. The Doc is keeping a good eye on me, and now that I'm sober, I am on a healthy diet and have my thoughts on tomorrow and the future. My Doc said that Vertex could be out late 2008, or 2009 for sure, pending FDA approval. It's in the final stage, stage 3, of testing and so far the results are quite good.In Hepatitis_C_Central , Sheena wrote:>> Rick, I have to wonder what might be the cause of this, > you don't drink alcohol? Are you majorly overweight, > highly stressed or on many conventional meds?> There has to be some reason why some reach SVR> and don't remiss and others fail.> I think

that's also something we'd all like to know..> I know I would before I try again..> Wonder how close that Vertex is getting!> > Sheena> > > > > Rick Kipp wrote:> I've been on treatment 3 times. Reached SVR all 3 during treatment, > but within 3 months of completion, viral numbers back up. So far, no > good for me. Perhaps Vertex!> > > >> > Dear Friends,> > > > I know there are over 800 members in this group.> > > > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how> > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not> > undergone any active treatment ?>

> > > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals> > should be evident in a real life setting.> > > > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than > believing> > a 2nd hand data.> > > > Thanks for participating.> > > > Best Wishes> > > > Somenath> > > > > > -- > > "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..."> >> > > > > > between 0000-00-00 and 9999-99-99> Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. "There are souls in this world that have the gift of finding joy everywhere and of leaving it behind them when they go" Frederick Faber

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now.

[Guest guest]

Same here Sheena, well kinda. We are waiting to get insurance through my husband's work. Right now I go to the Indian Hospital and they just don't have the funding or grants to treat Hep C. So hoping my husbands insurance starts sometime before I try a new treatment. Maybe we will start together!! Love JanetSheena wrote: I am

hoping we can extend our Cobra Insurance, or I will have to wait for a few more years. There may be many of us trying again..at the same time! Love, Sheena Janet <doc_jade> wrote: Me too Sheena, We are putting money back in savings just in case. Love JanetSheena <mom4possums2002> wrote: WOW! Good for you, Rick, you will make it 4th try! I think many will give the Vertex a shot.. 2009 right around the corner! Rick Kipp <rickkippearthlink (DOT) net> wrote: Yes, I did drink through all 3 treatments and was overweight (265 then, 180 now). Dumb and Dumber! I stopped AFTER my 3rd treatment, and I now know I never gave myself a chance. I drank heavier on treatment, just to try to cover the side effects! Oh, well. Now all my numbers are holding very steady, and I go for another ultrasound next week. The Doc is keeping a good eye on me, and now that I'm sober, I am on a healthy diet and have my thoughts on tomorrow and the future. My Doc said that

Vertex could be out late 2008, or 2009 for sure, pending FDA approval. It's in the final stage, stage 3, of testing and so far the results are quite good.In Hepatitis_C_Central , Sheena wrote:>> Rick, I have to wonder what might be the cause of this, > you don't drink alcohol? Are you majorly overweight, > highly stressed or on many conventional meds?> There has to be some reason why some reach SVR> and don't remiss and others fail.> I think that's also something we'd all like to know..> I know I would before I try again..> Wonder how close that Vertex is getting!> > Sheena> > > > > Rick Kipp wrote:> I've been on treatment 3 times. Reached SVR all 3 during treatment, > but within 3

months of completion, viral numbers back up. So far, no > good for me. Perhaps Vertex!> > > >> > Dear Friends,> > > > I know there are over 800 members in this group.> > > > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how> > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not> > undergone any active treatment ?> > > > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals> > should be evident in a real life setting.> > > > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than > believing> > a 2nd hand data.> > > > Thanks for participating.> >

> > Best Wishes> > > > Somenath> > > > > > -- > > "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..."> >> > > > > > between 0000-00-00 and 9999-99-99> Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. "There are souls in this world that have the gift of finding joy everywhere and of leaving it behind them when they go" Frederick Faber Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. "There are souls in this world that have the gift of finding joy everywhere and of leaving it behind them when they go" Frederick Faber

[Guest guest]

Soon, I hope and several others! Love, SheenaJanet wrote: Same here Sheena, well kinda. We are waiting to get insurance through my husband's work. Right now I go to the Indian Hospital and they just don't have the funding or grants to treat Hep C. So hoping my husbands insurance starts sometime

before I try a new treatment. Maybe we will start together!! Love JanetSheena <mom4possums2002> wrote: I am hoping we can extend our Cobra Insurance, or I will have to wait for a few more years. There may be many of us trying again..at the same time! Love, Sheena Janet <doc_jade> wrote: Me too Sheena, We are putting money back in savings just in case. Love JanetSheena <mom4possums2002> wrote: WOW! Good for you, Rick, you will make it 4th try! I think many will give the Vertex a shot.. 2009 right around the corner! Rick Kipp <rickkippearthlink (DOT) net> wrote: Yes, I did drink through all 3 treatments and was overweight (265 then, 180 now). Dumb and Dumber! I stopped AFTER my 3rd

treatment, and I now know I never gave myself a chance. I drank heavier on treatment, just to try to cover the side effects! Oh, well. Now all my numbers are holding very steady, and I go for another ultrasound next week. The Doc is keeping a good eye on me, and now that I'm sober, I am on a healthy diet and have my thoughts on tomorrow and the future. My Doc said that Vertex could be out late 2008, or 2009 for sure, pending FDA approval. It's in the final stage, stage 3, of testing and so far the results are quite good.In Hepatitis_C_Central , Sheena wrote:>> Rick, I have to wonder what might be the cause of this, > you don't drink alcohol? Are you majorly overweight, > highly stressed or on many conventional meds?> There has to be some reason why some reach SVR> and don't

remiss and others fail.> I think that's also something we'd all like to know..> I know I would before I try again..> Wonder how close that Vertex is getting!> > Sheena> > > > > Rick Kipp wrote:> I've been on treatment 3 times. Reached SVR all 3 during treatment, > but within 3 months of completion, viral numbers back up. So far, no > good for me. Perhaps Vertex!> > > >> > Dear Friends,> > > > I know there are over 800 members in this group.> > > > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how> > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not> >

undergone any active treatment ?> > > > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals> > should be evident in a real life setting.> > > > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than > believing> > a 2nd hand data.> > > > Thanks for participating.> > > > Best Wishes> > > > Somenath> > > > > > -- > > "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..."> >> > > > > > between 0000-00-00 and 9999-99-99> Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. "There are souls in this world that have the gift of finding joy everywhere and of leaving it behind them when they go" Frederick Faber Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. "There are souls in this world that have the gift of finding joy everywhere and of leaving it behind them when they go" Frederick Faber

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Hey Lee, How are you feeling, things still going well for you? Lee wrote: I finished treatment last year and reached SVR in August.Rick, If you relapsed less than 6 months after treatment, you never reached SVR. SVR is Sustained Viral Response.LEE> >> > Dear Friends,> > > > I know there are over 800 members in this group.> > > > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how> > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not> > undergone any active treatment ?> > > > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs & Journals> > should be evident in a real life setting.> > > > Just curious to know about the truth

from 1st hand data than > believing> > a 2nd hand data.> > > > Thanks for participating.> > > > Best Wishes> > > > Somenath> > > > > > -- > > "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..."> >>

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I'm so glad you are taking the time to stop and notice the beauty around you, nothing is a better anti-depressant. Hugs, Sheenajoyceann silva wrote: rick i dont know about all the other stuff, but i do know this, i have me and my life might not be the best life , but im not in jail, im not running, im not

homeless , im not hurting others, im not hurting myself, and i enjoy things now cause i finally cane see things like beautifull trees and interesting birds, and the smell of spring and fresh cut grass, and if i sit there quitely i hear all kinds of sounds that never knew exsisted, im glad yr sober ,,,,im glad your given it a chance, its not the easiest thing ive ever done, but its the smartes, i havent had a drink in a few years and now im so mad and afraid of it, i dont wanna see it, or be near it,,,good luck and best wishes, and all of this joyceRick Kipp <rickkippearthlink (DOT) net> wrote: Yes, I did drink through all 3 treatments and was overweight (265 then, 180 now). Dumb and Dumber! I stopped AFTER my 3rd treatment, and I now know I never gave myself a chance. I drank heavier on treatment, just to try to cover the side effects! Oh,

well. Now all my numbers are holding very steady, and I go for another ultrasound next week. The Doc is keeping a good eye on me, and now that I'm sober, I am on a healthy diet and have my thoughts on tomorrow and the future. My Doc said that Vertex could be out late 2008, or 2009 for sure, pending FDA approval. It's in the final stage, stage 3, of testing and so far the results are quite good.In Hepatitis_C_Central , Sheena wrote:>> Rick, I have to wonder what might be the cause of this, > you don't drink alcohol? Are you majorly overweight, > highly stressed or on many conventional meds?> There has to be some reason why some reach SVR> and don't remiss and others fail.> I think that's also something we'd all like to know..> I know I would before I try

again..> Wonder how close that Vertex is getting!> > Sheena> > > > > Rick Kipp wrote:> I've been on treatment 3 times. Reached SVR all 3 during treatment, > but within 3 months of completion, viral numbers back up. So far, no > good for me. Perhaps Vertex!> > > >> > Dear Friends,> > > > I know there are over 800 members in this group.> > > > Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & how> > many have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have not> > undergone any active treatment ?> > > > All that 20-40% data on SVR rates as claimed by the MDs &

Journals> > should be evident in a real life setting.> > > > Just curious to know about the truth from 1st hand data than > believing> > a 2nd hand data.> > > > Thanks for participating.> > > > Best Wishes> > > > Somenath> > > > > > -- > > "Live for a cause not applause. Live to express not impress..."> >> > > > > > between 0000-00-00 and 9999-99-99> Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now.

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I've never treated and have probably had the virus since the early 70's - am 1b wih Stage 1, Grade 1 status. Last viral load was over a year ago at 853254 and log at 5.9. Newest GI doc says that another biopsy isn't necessary as my blood work does not suggest the need for it.

Chris

Dear Friends,I know there are over 800 members in this group.Lets run a vote as to how many have been benefitted with SVR & howmany have relapsed in a real life setting. And how many have notundergone any active treatment ?Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car listings at AOL Autos.

[Guest guest]

I was on tx for 17 weeks last year and became very ill. throwing up several times a day and the runs at the same time for weeks among many other reactions. I am considered a "non-responder" since I never reached SVR and as time went by my viral load started going back up. My docs have asked me to considere a clinical trial in Sept sometime using the standard tx along with the Vertex or another drug, I am not sure at this time which drug this will be. At this point, I am thinking that I may not do it. But that is not final. I go back and forth and I guess I will make the decision closer to the time of the trial and when I have more information. I am very concerened about the lasting effects of treatment.

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[Guest guest]

Keep in mind that with the Vertex it's possible to do 24 weeks instead of 48+. And from my understanding more are obtaining (and holding) SVR.. I am going to keep reading all the data out there, we have time yet to make an educated decision, but it is looking more do-able, Step. Don't give up just yet! Hugs, Sheena Ruggio wrote: I was on tx for 17 weeks last year and became very ill. throwing up several times a day and the runs at the same time for weeks among many other reactions. I am considered a "non-responder" since I never reached SVR and as time went by my viral load started going back up. My docs have asked me to considere a clinical trial in Sept sometime using the standard tx along with the Vertex or another drug, I am not sure at this time which drug this will be. At this point, I am thinking that I may not do it. But that is not final. I go back and forth and I guess I will make the decision closer to the time of the trial and when I have more

information. I am very concerened about the lasting effects of treatment. Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now.

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[Guest guest]

I count my blessings every day, believe me! I have no intention to treat using the current stuff but I am looking forward to the DNA type stuff that'll be around before long.

I made the "not to treat" decision after my biopsy in early 2003, with the idea of keeping my liver in shape "until something better came along". My new GI doc initially screamed at me when I told him that I had chosen not to treat - "You would if you didn't want to get liver cancer!" I thought to myself, oh no, not another one of those. However, after he went over all of my blood work that I had with me, his manner changed and he told me that he thought that I was "doing great", but that I was very lucky........

That's alright - I really got him as a doctor as I needed to have several tests done; endoscopy and colonoscopy, as well as an annual ultrasound. I've had the tests and am done with that stuff. Thankfully, I have a great primary care doctor who approves of and encourages my use of alternatives and supplements.

Chris

wow,, you are the exact kind of person who truely has to choice of treating or not,, with a stage 1 and grade 1, and with having had this virus for more than 30 years,, you do not have much damage so it appears that your body is keeping it in check,, you're very lucky!Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car listings at AOL Autos.

[Guest guest]

I count my blessings every day, believe me! I have no intention to treat using the current stuff but I am looking forward to the DNA type stuff that'll be around before long.

I made the "not to treat" decision after my biopsy in early 2003, with the idea of keeping my liver in shape "until something better came along". My new GI doc initially screamed at me when I told him that I had chosen not to treat - "You would if you didn't want to get liver cancer!" I thought to myself, oh no, not another one of those. However, after he went over all of my blood work that I had with me, his manner changed and he told me that he thought that I was "doing great", but that I was very lucky........

That's alright - I really got him as a doctor as I needed to have several tests done; endoscopy and colonoscopy, as well as an annual ultrasound. I've had the tests and am done with that stuff. Thankfully, I have a great primary care doctor who approves of and encourages my use of alternatives and supplements.

Chris

wow,, you are the exact kind of person who truely has to choice of treating or not,, with a stage 1 and grade 1, and with having had this virus for more than 30 years,, you do not have much damage so it appears that your body is keeping it in check,, you're very lucky!Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car listings at AOL Autos.

[Guest guest]

Oh I know that for sure - I think that someone would be making a fortune if an alternative treatment could clear the virus! Since that's never going to happen, I've just done what I've could to make my liver (and myself) as strong as possible.

I think that I mentioned the book "Prescription for Natural Healing" a few times - but I got a copy of one back in the mid-90's. I started fooling around with milk thistle and stuff back then - just because I drank a lot and I thought that I might be protecting my liver - which sounds crazy now, lol. So, I don't know if taking the stuff off and on for 5-7 years had anything to do with my liver being in pretty good shape upon my dx in 2002. I did start taking the milk thistle 3 times a day after being dx'd - and there was 6 months until my biopsy.

But you must understand that I was a HEAVY drug and drinker! For DECADES! No one was more shocked than I when my biopsy came back 1/1!

And over the years, all of my lft's were back to normal until last summer - then I started having stomach and bloating problems, my fibromyalgia was going crazy and my ALT/AST shot up. Long story short, new doc suggested gluten problem, I quit wheat and started feeling better. My ALT/AST are much lower as of February and my fibro stuff has gotten much better. The endo and colonoscopy were both normal.

My primary care doc (one that accepts Medicare - yay!) ran all kinds of initial blood work on me back in October of 2007. She uncovered other viruses - epstein barr, cmv, besides my hep c, and herpes viruses. She also did a DNA test that revealed the mthfr mutation, which affects the methylation cycle and red blood cells. I've since found out that it is a common mutation and among the newer cardiac tests available. I also think that it is one that Hep C folks should have prior to treatment - it can help predict those who will have more problems with low blood cell problems, etc.

I'm currently on a modified "Berkson Protocol", using milk thistle, ALA, and selenium but I take a lot of other stuff as well. Try and walk every other day and keep a very strict diet - no wheat, mostly veggies and fruit and lots of water.

Here's a link to something similar to it:

http://www.naturalsolutionsmag.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/center.article/articleID/10730/subTopicID/181/LivingWithHepatitisC

Chris

I'll bet you do,, count your blessings hon... I know,, many docs can not think beyond "treatment".. but that is the way they are trained.. so Im glad you found someone who is ok with you not treating at this time.. just remember that alternative wont 'cure' hep c or even put it into remission, but it will help your liver be able to tolerate the virus better than it would without them.. but they are not cure.. Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car listings at AOL Autos.