I am Blessed.......

I am 47 years old. I was diagnosed in '94. Did monotherapy of intron A in '95. Cleared but relapsed. I was in clinical trials for the Rebatron in '96, which was when ribovarin was being tested. Again cleared the virus only to relapse. In March 2007 until May 2009, I treated with Pegasys and ribovarin...for a long 117 weeks. double dosing Pegasys and 1 1/2 times the weight based ribovarin and again relapsed. Due to chronic Hep C, I have endured many hardships.. Financial, emotional, and physical. As happens to many, it has brought me to my knees, to trust in God...to seek Him every day..By reading His Word, and prayer. I am grateful. This chronic illness has made me a more compassionate person, given me a deeper empathy for all those sick and suffering, no matter what disease one has, be it physical or mental. There are so many lessons to be learned in this life...and suffering for me seems to be the vehicle for enlightenment. This lonely path has helped me to become the person I was meant to be. One must know/understand darkness to appreciate The Light. What remains a mystery now, I believe will be made known when I reach heaven. I do believe that everything has a purpose. To have a virus that carries such stigma. To be somewhat of an outcast in this world has been very humbling, and one in which has drawn me ever so closer to my Creator, my Father in Heaven and my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Today, I am basically, through natural remedies, trying to build up my immune system and stick to a liver friendly diet..And exercise by stretching and walking when able...which is more often than not. I thank God for what I do have...and one of the things to have come out of this, is the friendships with others who are also living with this illness. We are a family. I never could have imagined that I would have friends across the globe...who love, care and truly understand me. I am blessed.