Please Help H.E.A.L.S of the South Help Others with Hepatitis
Hello everyone! Happy Holidays!
We hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving and are ready to have a Merry Christmas and a HEALTHY and Happy New Year!
2009 is drawing to a close and we would like to ask you to remember during this season of "giving" that H.E.A.L.S of the South is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit and your donation will be tax deductible and greatly appreciated! We depend on YOU to help us keep going! Please Help H.E.A.L.S to Help Others with hepatitis.
Hepatitis Education Awareness and Liver Support is our mission. We counsel newly diagnosed patients, offer support via internet groups and telephone counseling, do mailings of informational Hepatitis C books and pamphlets, attend Health Fairs, provide testing events, speak wherever and whenever we can about Hepatitis C to the public and participate in Local, State, National and Global Hepatitis Awareness activities as we can.
Your donations can be mailed to:
H.E.A.L.S of the South
PO Box 180813
Tallahassee, FL 32318
Or you can utilize our PayPal button at:
http://www.healsofthesouth.org/ The button is on the right side of each page.
Don’t forget to check out our online Hepatitis C Handbook while you are there!
We look forward to hearing from you and ask that you please forward this request to others. We thank you for your support over the years and look forward to continuing to Help Others with Hepatitis, especially Hepatitis C.
Get Tested for Hep C and Get Vaccinated for Hep A and Hep B!
Peace
H.E.A.L.S of the South
http://www.healsofthesouth.org/
Friday, December 18, 2009
Monday, December 7, 2009
Rep. Hank Johnson: I Have Hepatitis C
*"I'm going to be a public figure who takes the stigma away from having the virus," he said.*
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rep. Hank Johnson: I Have Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C Can Lead To Cancer, Liver Failure
ATLANTA -- Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Ga., revealed Monday that he has hepatitis C, a serious liver disease that can lead to fatal complications such as cancer or liver failure.
In recent months, Johnson, 55, has appeared thin and frail. The two-term Atlanta-area congressman said in a statement that he has been undergoing rigorous treatment to eradicate the disease, which was first diagnosed in 1998. He said the treatment is going well and that he has been free of the hepatitis C virus for almost a year.
Johnson said he doesn't know how he contracted the virus, which is spread through contact with infected blood. He said he plans to use his public profile to raise awareness of the disease, which infects some 4 million Americans.
http://www.cbsatlanta.com/news/21890634/detail.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rep. Hank Johnson suffering from Hepatitis C
By Michael O'Brien - 12/07/09 06:32 PM ET
Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) announced Monday that he is suffering from Hepatitis C.
Johnson, a second-term congressman representing metropolitan Atlanta, said he's been suffering from the incurable disease affecting the liver for over a decade.
Johnson disclosed his disease in an interview with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Monday, and said that while he was declared free of the disease earlier this year, he had sustained liver damage and other health issues, for which he his currently seeking treatment.
The congressman was given a 20-year prognosis on life when he was diagnosed with the disease in 1998, with his final goal in life to become a congressman -- which he achieved in 2006 when he bested former Rep. Cynthia McKinney (D-Ga.).
Johnson will also seek reelection in 2010, according to the AJC:
Up for reelection in November 2010, Johnson said he is planning to begin campaigning for office again, in earnest, when he's done with his latest round of treatment in February. At least two Republican challengers have said they'll run for his seat.
The Georgia Democrat said he had not engaged in risky behavior (such as intravenous drug use) to contract the disease, and that his goal now would be to campaign against the stigma associated with Hepatitis C.
"I'm going to be a public figure who takes the stigma away from having the virus," he said.
http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/71009-rep-hank-johnson-suffering-from-hepatitis-c
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rep. Hank Johnson battling hepatitis C
December 7, 2009 at 4:10 pm by Patrick Saunders in News
After shedding 30 pounds in the last year and suffering noticeably from slowed speech, confusion and fatigue, Rep. Hank Johnson revealed an 11-year-old secret today: he has been battling hepatitis C.
From the AJC:
He was officially declared free of the virus in January, but it has ravaged his liver, damaged his thyroid and caused other health problems, including depression, for which he’s also being treated. To keep the disease in remission, Johnson is going through an experimental treatment that he said has been the worst part so far.
“I am weaker than I ever have been,” Johnson, 55, said in his Capitol Hill office.
Johnson told the AJC that when his doctor gave him the initial diagnosis in 1998 and told him he had 20 years to live, he got his financial affairs in order and got to work on some life goals. That included winning a seat on the Dekalb County Commission before unseating Cynthia McKinney in the 4th congressional district in 2006.
He told the AJC that doctors have since told him there are “no limitations on how much longer he’ll live.”
Johnson says he has no plans to step down and will run for re-election next November, but won’t start campaigning until after he is done with his latest round of treatment in February.
http://blogs.creativeloafing.com/freshloaf/2009/12/07/rep-hank-johnson-has-hepatitis-c/
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 7, 2009
NVHR Offers Congressman Hank Johnson Support & Encouragement As He Battles Chronic Hepatitis C Virus
Washington, DC-With today's forthright and valiant announcement by Congressman Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) that he is undergoing treatment for chronic hepatitis C virus, the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR) wishes to offer Congressman Johnson, Mrs. Johnson, and his entire family and staff our unwavering support as he works towards a cure.
Congressman Hank Johnson is believed to be the first sitting Member of Congress to acknowledge he is afflicted with chronic hepatitis C virus.
The NVHR is a coalition of more than 150 public, private, and voluntary organizations dedicated to reducing the incidence of infection, morbidity, and mortality from viral hepatitis in the US through strategic planning, leadership, coordination, advocacy, and research. http://www.nvhr.org/
"NVHR and the entire viral hepatitis community offer Congressman Johnson our support and encouragement as he battles chronic hepatitis C virus," said NVHR Chair Lorren Sandt. "In choosing to disclose his condition, Congressman Johnson is helping to propel chronic viral hepatitis to the forefront of our nation's public-health agenda. We are hopeful that Congressman Johnson's announcement will help spur greater awareness about the need for increased prevention, detection, and treatment of chronic viral hepatitis B and C."
In light of this announcement, the NVHR encourages the American people to use it as an opportunity to learn more about the need to address the urgent public health crisis of chronic viral hepatitis B and C infection and to recognize that viral hepatitis is treatable. Hepatitis B is well managed with medications and more than 50 percent of hepatitis C patients are cured with anti-viral therapies. Bipartisan legislation was recently introduced in Congress by Representative Mike Honda (D-Calif.) and Charles Dent (R-Pa.) that would increase federal funding for comprehensive prevention, research, and medical management referral programs for chronic viral hepatitis B and C infection.
An estimated 5.4 million Americans - roughly 1 in 50 - are afflicted with chronic viral hepatitis infection and most don't even know it. Left undetected and untreated, chronic hepatitis B and C can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure. While African Americans and Asian Americans are disproportionately afflicted with chronic viral hepatitis infection, the diseases infect all walks of life in American society.
In January 2010, the Institute of Medicine (IoM) is expected to release a report on viral hepatitis in the United States that outlines strategies for reducing the incidence of viral hepatitis infection and to mitigate complications in those individuals with chronic infections.
Phil Blando, pblando@abmpartnersllc.com , 202-258-4978
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
December 7, 2009 404-593-9126
Rep. Johnson's statement on hepatitis C
LITHONIA, GA – Over the past year, I have been on a robust course of treatment for hepatitis C (HCV), a virus that affects more than four million Americans. I am pleased to announce that my therapy is progressing well. My physician is encouraged by my response to treatment and expects complete success eradicating the virus.
I hope that my disclosure will provide others suffering from HCV with confidence to speak out and educate the community about this illness. Through clinical trials and medical research, we must always seek new, more effective treatments.
I plan to use my position as a public figure to raise awareness of the consequences of this infection and let others fighting hepatitis know that it is possible to succeed and excel while battling this disease.
The causes of this disease are many, but in the end it does not matter how someone contracted the virus. Like so many millions of others, I was infected many years without ever knowing how I contracted it.
In fact, more than half the people who have hepatitis C don't know how or when they contracted it. And many are fearful of the treatment regimen that impacts your life in unusual ways. Having come through a long course of treatment, I want to send a strong message that a cure is possible but you must be tested and treated.
I will be working with the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR) to help educate my colleagues and the public to learn more about this largely misunderstood disease. It is treatable, but we must devote the will and resources it deserves in light of the urgent need.
Though this infection has caused me some discomfort and frustration, it has in no way affected my ability to legislate and serve my constituents. My record of attendance at votes and in committee meetings is outstanding. I have passed three major bills in this year alone. As Chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts and Competition Policy, I have led an active and effective committee. And as Southeast Regional Whip in the House leadership I played a significant role in rallying my colleagues support for historic health reform.
Today, I also announce that I will co-sponsor legislation offered by several of my colleagues in October, 2009 – H.R. 3974 – which would establish, promote, and support a comprehensive prevention, education, research and medical referral program for viral hepatitis infection.
It is a testament to the 111th Congress that we have men and women willing to stand up for average Americans and their families who have been impacted by hepatitis C and related illnesses. It is also gratifying that this is a bi-partisan bill because disease respects no socio-economic status, party or political philosophy.
Rep. Johnson's physician, Dr. Maria Sjogren of Walter Reed Army Medical Center
Congressman Johnson can be an inspiration to thousands of people who suffer from this illness. He has been a model patient, sticking with his course of treatment even when it was most difficult. His determination shows that people suffering from hepatitis can live normal lives and continue to be productive citizens.
Martha Saly, Director of the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR)
On behalf of the entire chronic viral hepatitis community, we offer Congressman Johnson our support, prayers, and encouragement, said Saly, who was treated for hepatitis C in 1999 and cleared the virus. Congressman Johnson's announcement shines a much-needed spotlight on a public-health issue that has historically resided in the shadows. We are hopeful that Congressman Johnson's announcement will help spur greater awareness about the need for increased prevention, detection, and treatment of chronic viral hepatitis B and C.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rep. Hank Johnson: I Have Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C Can Lead To Cancer, Liver Failure
ATLANTA -- Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Ga., revealed Monday that he has hepatitis C, a serious liver disease that can lead to fatal complications such as cancer or liver failure.
In recent months, Johnson, 55, has appeared thin and frail. The two-term Atlanta-area congressman said in a statement that he has been undergoing rigorous treatment to eradicate the disease, which was first diagnosed in 1998. He said the treatment is going well and that he has been free of the hepatitis C virus for almost a year.
Johnson said he doesn't know how he contracted the virus, which is spread through contact with infected blood. He said he plans to use his public profile to raise awareness of the disease, which infects some 4 million Americans.
http://www.cbsatlanta.com/news/21890634/detail.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rep. Hank Johnson suffering from Hepatitis C
By Michael O'Brien - 12/07/09 06:32 PM ET
Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) announced Monday that he is suffering from Hepatitis C.
Johnson, a second-term congressman representing metropolitan Atlanta, said he's been suffering from the incurable disease affecting the liver for over a decade.
Johnson disclosed his disease in an interview with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Monday, and said that while he was declared free of the disease earlier this year, he had sustained liver damage and other health issues, for which he his currently seeking treatment.
The congressman was given a 20-year prognosis on life when he was diagnosed with the disease in 1998, with his final goal in life to become a congressman -- which he achieved in 2006 when he bested former Rep. Cynthia McKinney (D-Ga.).
Johnson will also seek reelection in 2010, according to the AJC:
Up for reelection in November 2010, Johnson said he is planning to begin campaigning for office again, in earnest, when he's done with his latest round of treatment in February. At least two Republican challengers have said they'll run for his seat.
The Georgia Democrat said he had not engaged in risky behavior (such as intravenous drug use) to contract the disease, and that his goal now would be to campaign against the stigma associated with Hepatitis C.
"I'm going to be a public figure who takes the stigma away from having the virus," he said.
http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/71009-rep-hank-johnson-suffering-from-hepatitis-c
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rep. Hank Johnson battling hepatitis C
December 7, 2009 at 4:10 pm by Patrick Saunders in News
After shedding 30 pounds in the last year and suffering noticeably from slowed speech, confusion and fatigue, Rep. Hank Johnson revealed an 11-year-old secret today: he has been battling hepatitis C.
From the AJC:
He was officially declared free of the virus in January, but it has ravaged his liver, damaged his thyroid and caused other health problems, including depression, for which he’s also being treated. To keep the disease in remission, Johnson is going through an experimental treatment that he said has been the worst part so far.
“I am weaker than I ever have been,” Johnson, 55, said in his Capitol Hill office.
Johnson told the AJC that when his doctor gave him the initial diagnosis in 1998 and told him he had 20 years to live, he got his financial affairs in order and got to work on some life goals. That included winning a seat on the Dekalb County Commission before unseating Cynthia McKinney in the 4th congressional district in 2006.
He told the AJC that doctors have since told him there are “no limitations on how much longer he’ll live.”
Johnson says he has no plans to step down and will run for re-election next November, but won’t start campaigning until after he is done with his latest round of treatment in February.
http://blogs.creativeloafing.com/freshloaf/2009/12/07/rep-hank-johnson-has-hepatitis-c/
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 7, 2009
NVHR Offers Congressman Hank Johnson Support & Encouragement As He Battles Chronic Hepatitis C Virus
Washington, DC-With today's forthright and valiant announcement by Congressman Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) that he is undergoing treatment for chronic hepatitis C virus, the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR) wishes to offer Congressman Johnson, Mrs. Johnson, and his entire family and staff our unwavering support as he works towards a cure.
Congressman Hank Johnson is believed to be the first sitting Member of Congress to acknowledge he is afflicted with chronic hepatitis C virus.
The NVHR is a coalition of more than 150 public, private, and voluntary organizations dedicated to reducing the incidence of infection, morbidity, and mortality from viral hepatitis in the US through strategic planning, leadership, coordination, advocacy, and research. http://www.nvhr.org/
"NVHR and the entire viral hepatitis community offer Congressman Johnson our support and encouragement as he battles chronic hepatitis C virus," said NVHR Chair Lorren Sandt. "In choosing to disclose his condition, Congressman Johnson is helping to propel chronic viral hepatitis to the forefront of our nation's public-health agenda. We are hopeful that Congressman Johnson's announcement will help spur greater awareness about the need for increased prevention, detection, and treatment of chronic viral hepatitis B and C."
In light of this announcement, the NVHR encourages the American people to use it as an opportunity to learn more about the need to address the urgent public health crisis of chronic viral hepatitis B and C infection and to recognize that viral hepatitis is treatable. Hepatitis B is well managed with medications and more than 50 percent of hepatitis C patients are cured with anti-viral therapies. Bipartisan legislation was recently introduced in Congress by Representative Mike Honda (D-Calif.) and Charles Dent (R-Pa.) that would increase federal funding for comprehensive prevention, research, and medical management referral programs for chronic viral hepatitis B and C infection.
An estimated 5.4 million Americans - roughly 1 in 50 - are afflicted with chronic viral hepatitis infection and most don't even know it. Left undetected and untreated, chronic hepatitis B and C can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure. While African Americans and Asian Americans are disproportionately afflicted with chronic viral hepatitis infection, the diseases infect all walks of life in American society.
In January 2010, the Institute of Medicine (IoM) is expected to release a report on viral hepatitis in the United States that outlines strategies for reducing the incidence of viral hepatitis infection and to mitigate complications in those individuals with chronic infections.
Phil Blando, pblando@abmpartnersllc.com , 202-258-4978
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
December 7, 2009 404-593-9126
Rep. Johnson's statement on hepatitis C
LITHONIA, GA – Over the past year, I have been on a robust course of treatment for hepatitis C (HCV), a virus that affects more than four million Americans. I am pleased to announce that my therapy is progressing well. My physician is encouraged by my response to treatment and expects complete success eradicating the virus.
I hope that my disclosure will provide others suffering from HCV with confidence to speak out and educate the community about this illness. Through clinical trials and medical research, we must always seek new, more effective treatments.
I plan to use my position as a public figure to raise awareness of the consequences of this infection and let others fighting hepatitis know that it is possible to succeed and excel while battling this disease.
The causes of this disease are many, but in the end it does not matter how someone contracted the virus. Like so many millions of others, I was infected many years without ever knowing how I contracted it.
In fact, more than half the people who have hepatitis C don't know how or when they contracted it. And many are fearful of the treatment regimen that impacts your life in unusual ways. Having come through a long course of treatment, I want to send a strong message that a cure is possible but you must be tested and treated.
I will be working with the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR) to help educate my colleagues and the public to learn more about this largely misunderstood disease. It is treatable, but we must devote the will and resources it deserves in light of the urgent need.
Though this infection has caused me some discomfort and frustration, it has in no way affected my ability to legislate and serve my constituents. My record of attendance at votes and in committee meetings is outstanding. I have passed three major bills in this year alone. As Chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts and Competition Policy, I have led an active and effective committee. And as Southeast Regional Whip in the House leadership I played a significant role in rallying my colleagues support for historic health reform.
Today, I also announce that I will co-sponsor legislation offered by several of my colleagues in October, 2009 – H.R. 3974 – which would establish, promote, and support a comprehensive prevention, education, research and medical referral program for viral hepatitis infection.
It is a testament to the 111th Congress that we have men and women willing to stand up for average Americans and their families who have been impacted by hepatitis C and related illnesses. It is also gratifying that this is a bi-partisan bill because disease respects no socio-economic status, party or political philosophy.
Rep. Johnson's physician, Dr. Maria Sjogren of Walter Reed Army Medical Center
Congressman Johnson can be an inspiration to thousands of people who suffer from this illness. He has been a model patient, sticking with his course of treatment even when it was most difficult. His determination shows that people suffering from hepatitis can live normal lives and continue to be productive citizens.
Martha Saly, Director of the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR)
On behalf of the entire chronic viral hepatitis community, we offer Congressman Johnson our support, prayers, and encouragement, said Saly, who was treated for hepatitis C in 1999 and cleared the virus. Congressman Johnson's announcement shines a much-needed spotlight on a public-health issue that has historically resided in the shadows. We are hopeful that Congressman Johnson's announcement will help spur greater awareness about the need for increased prevention, detection, and treatment of chronic viral hepatitis B and C.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Viral Hepatitis and Liver Cancer Prevention and Control Act of 2009
The Viral Hepatitis and Liver Cancer Prevention and Control Act of 2009 has been introduced and we need your help to get it passed. Please show your individual or organization support of this important legislation by signing the letter below.
Please pass this email on to everyone you know. Let's show Congress that Viral Hepatitis effects every community in America!
Best regards,
Lorren Sandt, Chair
Click Here to add your organization's support.
http://www.surveymk.com/s.aspx?sm=3gVmq%2bS1YbmHLKxbypJkrA%3d%3d
Click Here to add your support as an individual.
http://www.surveymk.com/s/5VHQL65
To read HR 3974 Click Here.
http://www.nvhr.org/pdf/HR3479.pdf
Dear Representative,
The undersigned organizations (individuals) have declared their support for HR 3974, the Viral Hepatitis and Liver Cancer Control and Prevention Act of 2009, and urge you to become a co-sponsor of this important bi-partisan public health legislation. HR 3974 will increase awareness and prevention of diseases that are already afflicting more than 5 million Americans - more than half of whom do not know they are infected - and will help to avoid tens of billions of dollars in unnecessary health care costs in the coming decade. The legislationamends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish, promote, and support a comprehensive prevention, education, research, and medical management referral program for viral hepatitis infection that will lead to a marked reduction in the disease burden associated with chronic viral hepatitis and liver cancer.
Congressman Mike Honda (D-CA) and Congressman Charles Dent (R-PA) introduced HR 3974 on October 29, 2009. Representatives William Cassidy (R-LA), Edolphus Towns (D-NY), Anh "Joseph" Cao (R-LA), David Wu (D-OR), Todd Platts (R-PA), Donna M. Christiansen (D-VI), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Bobby Rush (D-IL), George Butterfield (D-NC), and Judy Chu (D-CA) are co-sponsors.
Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are highly infectious blood-borne viruses that cause liver disease, liver cancer, and premature death. Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are the leading causes of primary liver cancer, one of the most deadly cancers, with five-year survival rates of only 11 percent. While the incidence of many cancers is declining, rates of liver cancer are increasing. Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) is treatable when detected early and properly managed. In about 50 percent of the cases, chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be cured.
Over the next 10 years, Medicare and private insurance costs for individuals with chronic HCV, which disproportionately affects the baby-boomer generation, will more than double to at least $85 billion annually. As the population ages and the disease progresses, government payers will bear the majority of the financial impact of chronic HCV infection. The numbers for chronic hepatitis B are also frightening; approximately 25 percent of persons with chronic HBV infection die prematurely from cirrhosis or liver cancer. Anestimated 1,000- 5,000 persons die each year inthe U.S. from HBV-related liver cancer. From 2010 to 2030, the number of liver cancer cases in the U.S. is expected to rise 59 percent, with the highest increases expected among Hispanics and Asian Pacific Islanders. Early intervention can improve the outcome for those living with chronic viral hepatitis and HR 3974 will help to assure that early intervention occurs.
We urge you to make liver cancer, chronic hepatitis B, and chronic hepatitis C, a leading health priority. We look forward to your co-sponsorship of the Viral Hepatitis and Liver Cancer Control and Prevention Act of 2009.
Sincerely,
National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Please pass this email on to everyone you know. Let's show Congress that Viral Hepatitis effects every community in America!
Best regards,
Lorren Sandt, Chair
Click Here to add your organization's support.
http://www.surveymk.com/s.aspx?sm=3gVmq%2bS1YbmHLKxbypJkrA%3d%3d
Click Here to add your support as an individual.
http://www.surveymk.com/s/5VHQL65
To read HR 3974 Click Here.
http://www.nvhr.org/pdf/HR3479.pdf
Dear Representative,
The undersigned organizations (individuals) have declared their support for HR 3974, the Viral Hepatitis and Liver Cancer Control and Prevention Act of 2009, and urge you to become a co-sponsor of this important bi-partisan public health legislation. HR 3974 will increase awareness and prevention of diseases that are already afflicting more than 5 million Americans - more than half of whom do not know they are infected - and will help to avoid tens of billions of dollars in unnecessary health care costs in the coming decade. The legislationamends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish, promote, and support a comprehensive prevention, education, research, and medical management referral program for viral hepatitis infection that will lead to a marked reduction in the disease burden associated with chronic viral hepatitis and liver cancer.
Congressman Mike Honda (D-CA) and Congressman Charles Dent (R-PA) introduced HR 3974 on October 29, 2009. Representatives William Cassidy (R-LA), Edolphus Towns (D-NY), Anh "Joseph" Cao (R-LA), David Wu (D-OR), Todd Platts (R-PA), Donna M. Christiansen (D-VI), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Bobby Rush (D-IL), George Butterfield (D-NC), and Judy Chu (D-CA) are co-sponsors.
Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are highly infectious blood-borne viruses that cause liver disease, liver cancer, and premature death. Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are the leading causes of primary liver cancer, one of the most deadly cancers, with five-year survival rates of only 11 percent. While the incidence of many cancers is declining, rates of liver cancer are increasing. Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) is treatable when detected early and properly managed. In about 50 percent of the cases, chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be cured.
Over the next 10 years, Medicare and private insurance costs for individuals with chronic HCV, which disproportionately affects the baby-boomer generation, will more than double to at least $85 billion annually. As the population ages and the disease progresses, government payers will bear the majority of the financial impact of chronic HCV infection. The numbers for chronic hepatitis B are also frightening; approximately 25 percent of persons with chronic HBV infection die prematurely from cirrhosis or liver cancer. Anestimated 1,000- 5,000 persons die each year inthe U.S. from HBV-related liver cancer. From 2010 to 2030, the number of liver cancer cases in the U.S. is expected to rise 59 percent, with the highest increases expected among Hispanics and Asian Pacific Islanders. Early intervention can improve the outcome for those living with chronic viral hepatitis and HR 3974 will help to assure that early intervention occurs.
We urge you to make liver cancer, chronic hepatitis B, and chronic hepatitis C, a leading health priority. We look forward to your co-sponsorship of the Viral Hepatitis and Liver Cancer Control and Prevention Act of 2009.
Sincerely,
National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Friday, July 3, 2009
Tech May Have Exposed Thousands to Hep C
This is an email that I thought was important enough to send to most everyone in my address book. My jokelist, my info list, my "professional" list, etc. as this is another good example of why Hepatitis C is "everyone's" disease and if you are a friend of mine or receive my emails for any reason I would hope that by now you have gotten tested and KNOW YOUR HEPATITIS C STATUS. Don't take it for "granted"
If you haven't been tested - PLEASE DO SO!
This is sadly NOT an unusual situation and over the years I have posted many stories about Hepatitis C being passed at pain clinics, MD offices, dentists, endoscopy clinics, tattoo shops, beauty parlors and barber shops, just a variety of ways that blood to blood transmission can occur and "you" are not even aware.
PLEASE get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B and GET TESTED for Hepatitis C!
Please ask your doctors why they aren't testing!
Please ask your news reporters why they aren't reporting about this silent epidemic!
Please ask your elected officials why they aren't doing more to fund programs for hepatitis C or to bring education and awareness to the general public!
Please tell 12 other people to GET TESTED for Hepatitis C!
Some form of Hepatitis affects 1 in 12 people in the world. Are YOU number 12? www.aminumber12.org Pretty staggering statistic!
Hepatitis C patients outnumber HIV patients about 5 to 1 in the United States. Do YOU really know anything about hepatitis C? Please educate yourselves and your loved ones.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tech May Have Exposed Thousands to Hep C
Woman Faces Criminal Charges for Swapping Her Own Dirty Syringes for Ones With Narcotic
AP) A former surgery technician may have exposed thousands of Colorado patients to hepatitis C when she swapped her own dirty syringes for ones filled with a powerful narcotic, federal authorities said Thursday.
Kristen Diane Parker faces criminal charges for allegedly making the swaps while working at Audubon Ambulatory Surgery Center in Colorado Springs and Rose Medical Center in Denver.
Authorities say Parker admitted to changing out syringes containing a saline solution with ones filled with the painkiller Fentanyl. Parker injected herself with the drug, according to a complaint filed Thursday in U.S. District Court in Denver.
An affidavit by Mary F. LaFrance, an investigator for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, says at least nine surgery patients at Rose have tested positive for hepatitis C, which is incurable. About 6,000 patients are being advised they may have been exposed and need to be tested.
Hepatitis C is a blood-borne disease that can cause serious liver problems, including cirrhosis or liver cancer. The illness is treatable, but there is no cure. Symptoms can include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, pain and jaundice.
Rose Medical Center officials told a news conference Thursday night they were working with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to determine whether Parker was the source of the virus. It could not be determined Thursday night whether Parker had an attorney.
Parker worked at Rose from Oct. 21, 2008, until April. Hospital officials say she was suspended April 13, before they learned of the cases, and then fired. She had failed a drug test by testing positive for Fentanyl.
Parker went to work for the Audubon surgery center shortly after being fired. She worked there from May 4 until Monday, Dr. J. Michael Hall, Audubon's medical director, told The Gazette in Colorado Springs.
If convicted of tampering with a consumer product and other charges, she faces up to 10 years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine on the most serious charge of tampering.
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/07/03/health/main5132012.shtml
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hepatitis C Under Diagnosed
Early Treatment Is Crucial
Steve Saunders, 7NEWS Anchor
DENVER -- The hepatitis C scare at Rose Medical Center has raised the profile of a disease that doctors say is under reported.
It is estimated that two percent of the population has the virus.
Steve Piper was diagnosed with the disease seven years ago. He believes he was infected with the virus as a teenager when he experimented with drugs.
He has since had liver cancer and a liver transplant, but is now doing well.
“It’s not a death sentence,” he said. “It’s a disease that is manageable, but you have to know that you have it.”
Dr. Gregory Everson of the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center specializes in liver disease and hepatitis C.
“It’s important not to bury your head in the sand,” he told 7NEWS.
About half the people with chronic hepatitis C respond to treatment. If that treatment begins early, patients have a much better outcome.
http://www.thedenverchannel.com/education/19943374/detail.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hospital worker may have exposed patients to Hepatitis C
DENVER, Colorado (CNN) -- A former hospital employee may have exposed hundreds, or even thousands, of surgical patients to hepatitis C after taking their fentanyl injections and replacing them with used syringes filled with saline solution, authorities say.
Kristen Diane Parker, who worked at Rose Medical Center in Denver, has admitted to secretly injecting herself in a bathroom and using unclean syringes as replacements for patients, investigators say.
She had hepatitis C, which she believes she contracted through using heroin and sharing dirty needles while she lived in New Jersey in 2008, authorities say.
She was a surgical technician at Rose from October 2008 to April 2009.
Nine patients who had surgery there during that time have tested positive for hepatitis C. Investigators are looking into whether they contracted the virus from Parker.
According to an affidavit filed by an investigator with the Food and Drug Administration, Rose Medical Center knew Parker tested positive for hepatitis C. She was counseled on how to limit her exposure to patients.
Parker quit after she was found in an operating room where she was not allowed to be. She subsequently tested positive for fentanyl. Hospital officials then contacted the DEA.
Parker is in federal custody facing three drug-related charges. If she is found to have done serious harm to a patient, she could face up to 20 years in prison. If a patient dies due to her actions, she could face life in prison.
In a statement to police, Parker said, "I can't take back what I did, but I will have to live with it for the rest of my life, and so does everyone else."
Her attorney could not be reached Friday.
Rose Medical Center is contacting 4,700 patients who had surgery at Rose during the time Parker was employed there. However, hospital officials do not believe that that many patients were exposed.
"We are taking a very conservative and cautious approach by contacting everyone who had surgery during this broad time period," a statement on the hospital's Web site states. "It is likely that most of the patients who receive letters will not have been exposed to hepatitis C."
Another 1,200 patients may have been infected between May 4, 2009, and July 1, 2009, when Parker worked at Audubon Ambulatory Surgical Center in Colorado Springs. Audubon is also contacting patients.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hepatitis C is a contagious liver disease that can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/07/03/hospital.employee.arrest/
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Questions mount about Hepatitis C as more details are released
Story By: John RomeroSource: KOAA
Thousands across the state may have been exposed to hepatitis c through alleged needle swapping by surgical tech Kristen Parker.
Dr. Donna Lanacone says out of all three types of hepatitis, C is by far the most serious and dangerous. “Hepatitis C is a virus that attacks the liver often silently.” she says, “The big difference is the fatality is higher and there is no vaccine.”
This silent killer can come without any symptoms at all and may not show for a number of years. “Most of the time there are no symptoms for 10-20 years.” explains Dr. Lanacone, “Some early symptoms you might see are low grade fever, fatigue, yellowing of the skin, which is called jaundice, abdominal pain, and some nausea and vomiting.” Hepatitis C can lead to cirrhosis, which is a scarring of the liver and is potentially fatal. It can also lead to liver cancer.
The virus that causes hepatitis c can be present for hours in blood even once it's dried. So it's a lot easier to catch than other blood-borne illnesses making testing that much more important.
“You should definitely get tested if there's any possibility of exposure to hepatitis c.” says Dr. Lanacone, “You do want to catch it as soon as you can. If you take the medications early enough can prevent some the of life threatening complications of hepatitis c.”
Both the Audubon Center and Rose Medical Center have set up free, confidential testing programs for patients who believe they may have been exposed. They say testing is not necessary for HIV or hepatitis b.
Audubon will begin sending letters to patients on July 6th, you can contact them at (719) 571-4440. If you have questions about contamination at Rose Medical Center, call the patient care line at (303) 329-7500.
http://www.koaa.com/aaaa_top_stories/x1974617906/Questions-mount-about-hepatitis-c-as-more-details-are-released
Peace
Pam
www.HEALSoftheSouth.org
www.myspace.com/figmento
http://360.yahoo.com/profile-ibMFv8Y3cqEGKgZVGFoxBHc-?cq=1
http://twitter.com/PSPam
http://www.facebook.com/PeachStatePam
http://pspamshepcjourney.blogspot.com/
If you haven't been tested - PLEASE DO SO!
This is sadly NOT an unusual situation and over the years I have posted many stories about Hepatitis C being passed at pain clinics, MD offices, dentists, endoscopy clinics, tattoo shops, beauty parlors and barber shops, just a variety of ways that blood to blood transmission can occur and "you" are not even aware.
PLEASE get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B and GET TESTED for Hepatitis C!
Please ask your doctors why they aren't testing!
Please ask your news reporters why they aren't reporting about this silent epidemic!
Please ask your elected officials why they aren't doing more to fund programs for hepatitis C or to bring education and awareness to the general public!
Please tell 12 other people to GET TESTED for Hepatitis C!
Some form of Hepatitis affects 1 in 12 people in the world. Are YOU number 12? www.aminumber12.org Pretty staggering statistic!
Hepatitis C patients outnumber HIV patients about 5 to 1 in the United States. Do YOU really know anything about hepatitis C? Please educate yourselves and your loved ones.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tech May Have Exposed Thousands to Hep C
Woman Faces Criminal Charges for Swapping Her Own Dirty Syringes for Ones With Narcotic
AP) A former surgery technician may have exposed thousands of Colorado patients to hepatitis C when she swapped her own dirty syringes for ones filled with a powerful narcotic, federal authorities said Thursday.
Kristen Diane Parker faces criminal charges for allegedly making the swaps while working at Audubon Ambulatory Surgery Center in Colorado Springs and Rose Medical Center in Denver.
Authorities say Parker admitted to changing out syringes containing a saline solution with ones filled with the painkiller Fentanyl. Parker injected herself with the drug, according to a complaint filed Thursday in U.S. District Court in Denver.
An affidavit by Mary F. LaFrance, an investigator for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, says at least nine surgery patients at Rose have tested positive for hepatitis C, which is incurable. About 6,000 patients are being advised they may have been exposed and need to be tested.
Hepatitis C is a blood-borne disease that can cause serious liver problems, including cirrhosis or liver cancer. The illness is treatable, but there is no cure. Symptoms can include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, pain and jaundice.
Rose Medical Center officials told a news conference Thursday night they were working with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to determine whether Parker was the source of the virus. It could not be determined Thursday night whether Parker had an attorney.
Parker worked at Rose from Oct. 21, 2008, until April. Hospital officials say she was suspended April 13, before they learned of the cases, and then fired. She had failed a drug test by testing positive for Fentanyl.
Parker went to work for the Audubon surgery center shortly after being fired. She worked there from May 4 until Monday, Dr. J. Michael Hall, Audubon's medical director, told The Gazette in Colorado Springs.
If convicted of tampering with a consumer product and other charges, she faces up to 10 years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine on the most serious charge of tampering.
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/07/03/health/main5132012.shtml
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hepatitis C Under Diagnosed
Early Treatment Is Crucial
Steve Saunders, 7NEWS Anchor
DENVER -- The hepatitis C scare at Rose Medical Center has raised the profile of a disease that doctors say is under reported.
It is estimated that two percent of the population has the virus.
Steve Piper was diagnosed with the disease seven years ago. He believes he was infected with the virus as a teenager when he experimented with drugs.
He has since had liver cancer and a liver transplant, but is now doing well.
“It’s not a death sentence,” he said. “It’s a disease that is manageable, but you have to know that you have it.”
Dr. Gregory Everson of the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center specializes in liver disease and hepatitis C.
“It’s important not to bury your head in the sand,” he told 7NEWS.
About half the people with chronic hepatitis C respond to treatment. If that treatment begins early, patients have a much better outcome.
http://www.thedenverchannel.com/education/19943374/detail.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hospital worker may have exposed patients to Hepatitis C
DENVER, Colorado (CNN) -- A former hospital employee may have exposed hundreds, or even thousands, of surgical patients to hepatitis C after taking their fentanyl injections and replacing them with used syringes filled with saline solution, authorities say.
Kristen Diane Parker, who worked at Rose Medical Center in Denver, has admitted to secretly injecting herself in a bathroom and using unclean syringes as replacements for patients, investigators say.
She had hepatitis C, which she believes she contracted through using heroin and sharing dirty needles while she lived in New Jersey in 2008, authorities say.
She was a surgical technician at Rose from October 2008 to April 2009.
Nine patients who had surgery there during that time have tested positive for hepatitis C. Investigators are looking into whether they contracted the virus from Parker.
According to an affidavit filed by an investigator with the Food and Drug Administration, Rose Medical Center knew Parker tested positive for hepatitis C. She was counseled on how to limit her exposure to patients.
Parker quit after she was found in an operating room where she was not allowed to be. She subsequently tested positive for fentanyl. Hospital officials then contacted the DEA.
Parker is in federal custody facing three drug-related charges. If she is found to have done serious harm to a patient, she could face up to 20 years in prison. If a patient dies due to her actions, she could face life in prison.
In a statement to police, Parker said, "I can't take back what I did, but I will have to live with it for the rest of my life, and so does everyone else."
Her attorney could not be reached Friday.
Rose Medical Center is contacting 4,700 patients who had surgery at Rose during the time Parker was employed there. However, hospital officials do not believe that that many patients were exposed.
"We are taking a very conservative and cautious approach by contacting everyone who had surgery during this broad time period," a statement on the hospital's Web site states. "It is likely that most of the patients who receive letters will not have been exposed to hepatitis C."
Another 1,200 patients may have been infected between May 4, 2009, and July 1, 2009, when Parker worked at Audubon Ambulatory Surgical Center in Colorado Springs. Audubon is also contacting patients.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hepatitis C is a contagious liver disease that can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/07/03/hospital.employee.arrest/
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Questions mount about Hepatitis C as more details are released
Story By: John RomeroSource: KOAA
Thousands across the state may have been exposed to hepatitis c through alleged needle swapping by surgical tech Kristen Parker.
Dr. Donna Lanacone says out of all three types of hepatitis, C is by far the most serious and dangerous. “Hepatitis C is a virus that attacks the liver often silently.” she says, “The big difference is the fatality is higher and there is no vaccine.”
This silent killer can come without any symptoms at all and may not show for a number of years. “Most of the time there are no symptoms for 10-20 years.” explains Dr. Lanacone, “Some early symptoms you might see are low grade fever, fatigue, yellowing of the skin, which is called jaundice, abdominal pain, and some nausea and vomiting.” Hepatitis C can lead to cirrhosis, which is a scarring of the liver and is potentially fatal. It can also lead to liver cancer.
The virus that causes hepatitis c can be present for hours in blood even once it's dried. So it's a lot easier to catch than other blood-borne illnesses making testing that much more important.
“You should definitely get tested if there's any possibility of exposure to hepatitis c.” says Dr. Lanacone, “You do want to catch it as soon as you can. If you take the medications early enough can prevent some the of life threatening complications of hepatitis c.”
Both the Audubon Center and Rose Medical Center have set up free, confidential testing programs for patients who believe they may have been exposed. They say testing is not necessary for HIV or hepatitis b.
Audubon will begin sending letters to patients on July 6th, you can contact them at (719) 571-4440. If you have questions about contamination at Rose Medical Center, call the patient care line at (303) 329-7500.
http://www.koaa.com/aaaa_top_stories/x1974617906/Questions-mount-about-hepatitis-c-as-more-details-are-released
Peace
Pam
www.HEALSoftheSouth.org
www.myspace.com/figmento
http://360.yahoo.com/profile-ibMFv8Y3cqEGKgZVGFoxBHc-?cq=1
http://twitter.com/PSPam
http://www.facebook.com/PeachStatePam
http://pspamshepcjourney.blogspot.com/
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Do YOU know about Hepatitis C?
You can find all kinds of Hepatitis C information on the various nonprofit sites at:
www.hepcnetwork.org
MANY informative sites there.
There are TWO good Hep C books that can be read online.
Hepatitis C Choices can be found at:
http://www.hepcchallenge.org/choices/disclaimer.htm
The Georgia Hep C Handbook can be found at: http://www.healsofthesouth.org/Hep_C_Handbook.html
Both of the Handbooks are packed with information.
Arm yourselves with knowledge about your disease as you are your own best advocate!
Take Care!
www.hepcnetwork.org
MANY informative sites there.
There are TWO good Hep C books that can be read online.
Hepatitis C Choices can be found at:
http://www.hepcchallenge.org/choices/disclaimer.htm
The Georgia Hep C Handbook can be found at: http://www.healsofthesouth.org/Hep_C_Handbook.html
Both of the Handbooks are packed with information.
Arm yourselves with knowledge about your disease as you are your own best advocate!
Take Care!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Tuesday, May 19th is World Hepatitis Day and I am reminding everyone on ALL my different groups that 1 in 12 people on this planet have some form of hepatitis! Are you the ONE in TWELVE? Don't take your status for granted. Get Tested! Especially for Hepatitis C!
You can learn the facts about Hepatitis A, B and C at:
www.aminumber12.org or www.nvhr.org
Please take the time on Tuesday the 19th of May to educate 12 others about hepatitis. Remind them to get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B and to get tested for Hepatitis C!
Also please take a moment and check out my friend Kelly's "Living For A Change" video that was inspired by our sweet Kristina's "Dying For A Change" video. Awesome Kelly! Keep up the good work!
For those of you that don't know, Kristina sadly passed away at the young age of 32 from liver cancer from Hepatitis C on 2/21/09. She was an R.N., BSN and an inspiration and support to many over the years! She is greatly missed!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ep9eg9hIY9k is Kelly's video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOGrMR4bi3w is Kristina's video
You can also help H.E.A.L.S help others by donating to:
H.E.A.L.S of the South
PO Box 180813
Tallahassee, FL 32318
or through the paypal buttons at:
www.HEALSoftheSouth.org or www.HEALSoftheSouth.com
Also there is a paypal button on my My Space at www.myspace.com/figmento along with some facts about Hepatitis C! :-) THANK YOU!
We also have a My Cause on Facebook at:
http://apps.facebook.com/causes/192539/35241122?m=6987e7df
Take care of each other and take care of yourself! You are your most important advocate!
You can learn the facts about Hepatitis A, B and C at:
www.aminumber12.org or www.nvhr.org
Please take the time on Tuesday the 19th of May to educate 12 others about hepatitis. Remind them to get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B and to get tested for Hepatitis C!
Also please take a moment and check out my friend Kelly's "Living For A Change" video that was inspired by our sweet Kristina's "Dying For A Change" video. Awesome Kelly! Keep up the good work!
For those of you that don't know, Kristina sadly passed away at the young age of 32 from liver cancer from Hepatitis C on 2/21/09. She was an R.N., BSN and an inspiration and support to many over the years! She is greatly missed!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ep9eg9hIY9k is Kelly's video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOGrMR4bi3w is Kristina's video
You can also help H.E.A.L.S help others by donating to:
H.E.A.L.S of the South
PO Box 180813
Tallahassee, FL 32318
or through the paypal buttons at:
www.HEALSoftheSouth.org or www.HEALSoftheSouth.com
Also there is a paypal button on my My Space at www.myspace.com/figmento along with some facts about Hepatitis C! :-) THANK YOU!
We also have a My Cause on Facebook at:
http://apps.facebook.com/causes/192539/35241122?m=6987e7df
Take care of each other and take care of yourself! You are your most important advocate!
Monday, May 11, 2009
2 wonderful videos and a petition. Please check them out!
2 wonderful videos and a petition. Please check them out!
Please check out Kelly's "Living For A Change" video that was inspired by our sweet Kristina's "Dying For A Change" video. AWESOME KELLY! Keep up the good work!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ep9eg9hIY9k
Also please join with me in signing her petition on behalf of HCV patients to the British Columbia Premier here: http://www.petitiononline.com/kodhep45/petition.html
AND Christopher Kennedy Lawford talks about Hepatitis C at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWjtMp5cYxk
Please check out Kelly's "Living For A Change" video that was inspired by our sweet Kristina's "Dying For A Change" video. AWESOME KELLY! Keep up the good work!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ep9eg9hIY9k
Also please join with me in signing her petition on behalf of HCV patients to the British Columbia Premier here: http://www.petitiononline.com/kodhep45/petition.html
AND Christopher Kennedy Lawford talks about Hepatitis C at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWjtMp5cYxk
Healing Hepatitis C,' a Book on the Epidemic's Front Lines
Healing Hepatitis C,' a Book on the Epidemic's Front Lines with Best-Selling Author Christopher Kennedy Lawford & Dr. Diana Sylvestre
Healing Hepatitis C: A Patient and a Doctor Tell You How to Recognize When You Are at Risk, Understand Hepatitis C Tests, Talk to Your Doctor About Hepatitis C, and Advocate for Yourself and Others By: Christopher Kennedy Lawford with Dr. Diana Sylvestre
It is estimated that more than 4 million Americans and approximately 170 million persons worldwide have been exposed to Hepatitis C. Healing Hepatitis C remedies that by combining the personal story of Christopher Kennedy Lawford, who unknowingly contracted the virus during his years of drug use, with the medical expertise of Dr. Diana Sylvestre, who has devoted her career to treating hepatitis C sufferers. Together they deal with the stigma and misinformation, and the fears and frustrations of this illness.
New York, New York (PRWEB) May 7, 2009 -- Having hepatitis C can be a transformative, extremely tough experience, especially without the right information. Healing Hepatitis C remedies that by combining the personal story of Christopher Kennedy Lawford, who unknowingly contracted the virus during his years of drug use, with the medical expertise of Dr. Diana Sylvestre, who has devoted her career to treating hepatitis C sufferers. Together they deal with the stigma and misinformation, and the fears and frustrations of this illness.
Healing Hepatitis C serves as a valuable sourcebook for medical and treatment information: from what hepatitis C is to what it does, from what to expect during treatment to how to communicate with your physician, to finding the support you need. Most of all, it walks you through the process of facing the diagnosis and treatment head-on, showing you that "it is possible to get through hepatitis C--to be cured of it--without surrendering your life to it."
Together Lawford and Sylvestre offer hope, humor, and medical expertise to help patients, their friends, and families navigate the numerous challenges of hepatitis C virus education, testing, and treatment.
About the Authors
Christopher Kennedy Lawford
Christopher Kennedy Lawford has worked extensively in politics, government and the non-profit sector, most recently being appointed to the California Public Health Advisory Committee, as well as spending twenty years in the film and television business as an actor, lawyer, executive, and producer. As the author of the New York Times bestseller's Symptoms of Withdrawal: A Memoir of Snapshots and Redemption, and Moments of Clarity, Mr. Lawford illuminates his extraordinary life and the tragedies he has faced - offering a cohesive message of survival, hope, and inspiration. In his most rewarding role to date, Mr. Lawford is an advocate, for critical mental health issues facing our society today. His passion and commitment to the issues of substance abuse, hepatitis C and mental health has reinvigorated the debate around these vital national concerns. Mr. Lawford holds a Bachelor of Arts from Tufts University, a Juris Doctor from Boston College Law School and a Masters Certification in Clinical Psychology from Harvard Medical School where he gained an academic appointment as a Lecturer on Psychiatry.
Diana Sylvestre M.D. Dr.
Diana Sylvestre M.D. is a physician-researcher and faculty member in the department of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. She is the executive director of the O.A.S.I.S. (Organization to Achieve Solutions in Substance-Abuse) in Oakland, California, and the president of the California Hepatitis Alliance. Her patient education workbook Hepatitis C: Get the Facts! has been distributed widely at no cost throughout the world.
Resources
Facebook- Healing Hepatitis C Group
http://www.healinghepc.com
# # #
Trackback URL: http://www.prweb.com/pingpr.php/VGhpci1TcXVhLVBpZ2ctVGhpci1TcXVhLUNvdXAtWmVybw==
See the original story at: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2009/05/prweb2392904.htm
Healing Hepatitis C: A Patient and a Doctor Tell You How to Recognize When You Are at Risk, Understand Hepatitis C Tests, Talk to Your Doctor About Hepatitis C, and Advocate for Yourself and Others By: Christopher Kennedy Lawford with Dr. Diana Sylvestre
It is estimated that more than 4 million Americans and approximately 170 million persons worldwide have been exposed to Hepatitis C. Healing Hepatitis C remedies that by combining the personal story of Christopher Kennedy Lawford, who unknowingly contracted the virus during his years of drug use, with the medical expertise of Dr. Diana Sylvestre, who has devoted her career to treating hepatitis C sufferers. Together they deal with the stigma and misinformation, and the fears and frustrations of this illness.
New York, New York (PRWEB) May 7, 2009 -- Having hepatitis C can be a transformative, extremely tough experience, especially without the right information. Healing Hepatitis C remedies that by combining the personal story of Christopher Kennedy Lawford, who unknowingly contracted the virus during his years of drug use, with the medical expertise of Dr. Diana Sylvestre, who has devoted her career to treating hepatitis C sufferers. Together they deal with the stigma and misinformation, and the fears and frustrations of this illness.
Healing Hepatitis C serves as a valuable sourcebook for medical and treatment information: from what hepatitis C is to what it does, from what to expect during treatment to how to communicate with your physician, to finding the support you need. Most of all, it walks you through the process of facing the diagnosis and treatment head-on, showing you that "it is possible to get through hepatitis C--to be cured of it--without surrendering your life to it."
Together Lawford and Sylvestre offer hope, humor, and medical expertise to help patients, their friends, and families navigate the numerous challenges of hepatitis C virus education, testing, and treatment.
About the Authors
Christopher Kennedy Lawford
Christopher Kennedy Lawford has worked extensively in politics, government and the non-profit sector, most recently being appointed to the California Public Health Advisory Committee, as well as spending twenty years in the film and television business as an actor, lawyer, executive, and producer. As the author of the New York Times bestseller's Symptoms of Withdrawal: A Memoir of Snapshots and Redemption, and Moments of Clarity, Mr. Lawford illuminates his extraordinary life and the tragedies he has faced - offering a cohesive message of survival, hope, and inspiration. In his most rewarding role to date, Mr. Lawford is an advocate, for critical mental health issues facing our society today. His passion and commitment to the issues of substance abuse, hepatitis C and mental health has reinvigorated the debate around these vital national concerns. Mr. Lawford holds a Bachelor of Arts from Tufts University, a Juris Doctor from Boston College Law School and a Masters Certification in Clinical Psychology from Harvard Medical School where he gained an academic appointment as a Lecturer on Psychiatry.
Diana Sylvestre M.D. Dr.
Diana Sylvestre M.D. is a physician-researcher and faculty member in the department of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. She is the executive director of the O.A.S.I.S. (Organization to Achieve Solutions in Substance-Abuse) in Oakland, California, and the president of the California Hepatitis Alliance. Her patient education workbook Hepatitis C: Get the Facts! has been distributed widely at no cost throughout the world.
Resources
Facebook- Healing Hepatitis C Group
http://www.healinghepc.com
# # #
Trackback URL: http://www.prweb.com/pingpr.php/VGhpci1TcXVhLVBpZ2ctVGhpci1TcXVhLUNvdXAtWmVybw==
See the original story at: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2009/05/prweb2392904.htm
Thursday, May 7, 2009
World Hepatitis Day in Florida on May 19, 2009!
Do you live in Florida? Take part in World Hepatitis Day on May 19, 2009!
Get MORE information on Hepatitis at www.aminumber12.org and www.nvhr.org
Get MORE information on Hepatitis at www.aminumber12.org and www.nvhr.org
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Please Join the Find A Cure Panel for Hepatitis!
 | |
 | |
| Hello! As a valued friend of H.E.A.L.S of the South, you can make a difference! By joining Find A Cure Panel for people with Hepatitis, you will be empowered to share your opinions in vital research to help find a cure. What's more, for each survey you complete a minimum donation of $25 is made directly to H.E.A.L.S of the South on your behalf. Registering is fast, free, and your privacy is completely protected. | |
| Click HERE to sign up now, and thank you for your continued support! | |
 |  |
 | |
If you can't click on the link above please click HERE:
http://member.assistyourteamsurveys.com/AYTSM_RecruitmentEmail90.html
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