“I am a Hep Hero because I want to help people understand the need for tolerance and that everyone is entitled to a decent life”
I arrived from Scotland in 1971 as part of the British boy’s immigrant movement, with my green 3-piece suit and $23. I had just turned 17 years old and the adventure began. My family was back in Scotland and being on my own I fell into some bad company and got involved with heroin. By 1976 I had changed my life around and did not use intravenous drugs never again.
In 1994 I was diagnosed with hepatitis C and yet another journey began! About 2 years ago I decided to attend St. Vincent’s liver clinic and seek information to get rid of the virus. The only treatment option was to undertake the classic Interferon-based treatment, which I had heard lots about – particularly the harsh side effects associated with it. However, due to the possibility of new and most effective drugs in the horizon, I decided to wait.
I am now 61 years old and have been diagnosed with cirrhosis…and I’m still awaiting for the new treatments. I have a beautiful granddaughter who I’d like to see grow up and I also feel I still have a lot to contribute to society. It is for these reasons that I continue to be patient and try to stay positive… I will be able to get a cure soon.
Recently I decided to get more active in spreading the word, so I followed a friend’s advice to join Hepatitis Victoria (and Hepatitis Australia) as an advocate so as to inform others and help break down the stigma associated with hepatitis C.
“It is really important for all of us to inform the community and get the message out to help destigmatise this condition. Hep C is curable now and we all have a right to live long, healthy lives and realize our dreams.”
LiverWELL acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community.
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