Countdown to Treatment

On September 16th I plan to start treatment with PEG-Intron (Interferon)and ribivarin at Kaiser Permanente. I'm scared and elated. People have reacted to these chemicals with flu-like symptoms, anywhere from mild to severe. Many endure this on the weekends, then go to work on Monday. The treatments last 48 weeks, with a weekly shot of interferon and daily tablet of ribivarin. Blood tests every two weeks will show whether the amount of virus is being reduced. If there isn't much effect by three months, the treatment will be stopped. Of those who complete the 48 weeks of treatment, 50% can be expected to be clear of virus and stay clear at least six months.

Several people have told me they took the same treatment and have been clear of the Hep C virus, one for four years, another for eight years. They've encouraged me to try.

It may not work, but I'll take the 50-50 odds gladly.