Hi group I posted a couple of months ago when I found out I had hep c. Since then I had my biopsy and seen a gastrolagist,It seems the results showed I had genotype 1a cronic hep c and cirrhosis of the liver stage 4, grade 3. Trying to hold back bursting out crying, I couldnt ask what that meant. So I tried to research it online. Does anyone know the stages or grades and what they mean. I’m awaiting an application from Rouche pharmacutical company for assistance with the tx, so I can begin it as soon as humanly possible. Everyone in my family that I try to talk to about this is saying don’t cry, don’t be upset. You’ll be fine, well I don’t want to seem negitive but I’m sad and I need to be sad for awhile why can’t my husband and family see that as sadness and not defeat or negativity. Yes I will fight this, yes I want the treatment to work, and yes I want to be better. But right now I’m not ok,. If anyone understands these feelings, I thought it might be here. Thanks Marsha
hey there mom,
First thing, you go right ahead and be as upset as you need to be. It’s not only ok but it is understandable. And only a doctor or someone that has or is going through it will understand. It isn’t really all that confusing. And once the initial shock of it all passes you will be able to look at it all and see what you need to do to fight this fight. I suggest you find a local support group that you can attend. This is , sadly, becoming a common illness. So the more folks that you can talk to together the better. I go to a support group for my aids , but i also am on treatment for hep c. Your doctor should instruct you to participate in mental health therapy befor staring treatment. For the medication will cause havoc on your mind, it’s a common aspect of the treatment. I have a dear friend that has cirrossis of the liver and can’t do treatment, so the fact that you can is good. Also the treatment can be physically rough with tiredness and nausea. This is why it is a MUST for you family to understand what you will be going through. I think their telling you all will be fine, not to worry so on and so forth is because they just don’t know about it either . And that is just what people say when they don’t know what else to say . But once you calm yourself down some, realize what this all entails, ASK QUESTIONS for what you don’t understand . Then when the time is right have your family go with you to your doctor so they will be informed also . Family support is VERY NECESSARY. And if you have it ,it is a blessing to have. Get in touch with me hon . There is so much I would like to share with you and not enough space for me to write. So any questions please feel free to email me jrflo@comcast.net… This is a tough treatment but I know you are a tough fighter too !!!
Your Doctor can explain the staging, I start my second round of treatment at weeks end, I too am a genotype 1a. Please message me here at careplace and we can go into further details. You can fight this, but you need support and knowledge. Fear is your enemy. So lets get you ready for the treatment. Hugs sweetie, I’m here for you anytime. hugs, River
good advice above. a lot of us are going thru the same thing.
that’s a lot to have dumped on you BUT don’t be too scared.
if the docs are willing to start you on tx that’s good.
ASK THE MD& NURSES QUESTIONS!! write them down.
go online and read about HCV and it’s treatment.
go to the pharma sites and read their info.
if you can go to a hepatologist or specialist, an MD that treats HCV.
make sure your family at home understands what your going thru.
there is a lot of support, cool folks and fun times here and at other HCV support sites.
good luck.
please, keep us posted.
peace
KM
thanks for the support, I should be starting tx this coming week. I am looking forward to it. I have learned the stages and grades and now know where I stand. Thanks
Were a big rooting team here , commarades linking arms for strength and endurance !!!