Five Years and Counting

Another set of liver lab tests turned out clear of the virus, and showing healthy liver function. The scarring never increased. So, my struggle to maintain energy and stamina belong to normal aging and ordinary healthcare. It helps that I lost weight this past year. That should mean that the liver also lost some fat that could impede the liver's vital operations. I'll have labs and scans twice a year, because the risk of liver cancer is higher after HepC. I don't expect it, just being prudent, and contributing to understanding of long term results of treatment. This year there was a conflict between attending the annual Liver Wellness seminar in San Diego, and taking part in a group that helps me very much to maintain emotional equilibrium. I chose the group. Five years ago I expected to be much more active as a volunteer and/or educator about prevention and treatment. There wasn't much scope, so my volunteer commitment turned out to be poverty issues, in the form of a day center that helps homeless and economically struggling people. (Uptown Faith Community Services, San Diego www.uptownfaith.org) I feel profoundly fortunate that I am well enough to help myself by helping others. The art classes over the past three years boosted me into an extremely satisfying, though sometimes frustrating, form of expression. Years ago, I gave up. Every time I spoke to my doctors, I was told that treatment was too rigorous and chancy for me. It was reserved for people awaiting transplant. I went back in 2008 insisting that there must be something for me. Attitudes had changed, and I underwent interferon and ribivarin treatment successfully. What blasted me out of sad acceptance was the prospect of perhaps having a grandchild, and not being strong enough to be trusted with carrying or caring for a baby. The grandchild arrived September 10th this year. I'm strong enough to help.