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Hi Kim, I've never allowed myself to feel the reactivity of others when I tell them I have Hep C. Yesterday I went to my allergist and the doctor asked me if I had any health issues. I reported that I have Hep C. The nurse flinched and made a small grimace. I recognized her reaction as being a big part of my life.I wanted to pronounce that I was never a drug user but pulled back from my explaining my disease. When I read your article, I finally cried because I have been living with this STIGMA for years. I compartmentalized it and hid it emotionally. A few years back I gave everyone in my office a Hep C ribbon on Hep C day. I just got a lot of blank looks. Very few even know that there is a Hep C day. Certainly don't see it in the news. I too saw the commercial about Hep C and my reaction was also, "Finally!" It gets even a little more complicated. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. The STIGMA would grow if I were to "out myself" in my very small community. So looking forward to the new treatment of Harvoni. Thank you for your wise words from a kindred spirit.....By the way, The Voice is my favorite show also...lol
Stella Armstrong
I can relate to every thing you said, I was elated when I saw the first Gilead commercial, I thought YES!!!! Finally!!!! I believe if it wasnt for me contracting it and going through the treatment after 14 years, I would not have even known what it was. So glad to part of this family!!! "Not without a fight Kim" Love you!
October 17, 2014