just found out

[Guest guest]

My company was very supportive, but you never know. shiridov <shiridov@...> wrote: > > I just found out im possitive for HCV im making my first appointment> with the gastro but my question is should I tell my job about my> condition?> > Has anyone had an experience good or bad about being honest and open> about it?> > > > Jackie > > > > > Life is short, Break the rules, Forgive quickly,

Kiss slowly, > > Love truly, Laugh uncontrollably, > > And never regret anything that made you smile.>-first of all I just LOVE!!! the above saying it's so true-whose the originator?-secondly you should definitly speak to you employer-it does not mean that you need to make a general announcement, but..depending on the size of the work place, at least speak to you immediate supervisor and/or manager or human resources department. I would wait to see if treatment is needed. I found out that I was HCV positive 6 years ago...however I did not officially speak to my manager until I found out that the virus was active and affecting my liver. I am currently going on my 36th week of treatment and must say that my manager and the coworkers that are aware of my condition have been very supportive. It's a good idea both legally and personally to be upfront and honest with your

employer.

Sick sense of humor? Visit TV's Comedy with an Edge to see what's on, when.

[Guest guest]

Jackie,

I am in complete agreement with you on the part of not telling unless

your going to do tx. But in my job, I did run the risk of being cut

and having others exposed to my blood. I was a mid-level manager in a

manufacturing plant and those machines can get nasty sometimes. They

seem to attack you when you are trying to be careful. If they person

in this post is in a possition where others will be affected by her

hep c and she doesn't not let them know, and since we know so much

more about hep c now than we did a few years ago, there is also the

chance of legal ramifications if she contaminates someone with the

virus and she knew she had it and did not make others aware..,

Steve...

> If you do not tell your employeer that you have Hep-C,

then you are risking the probability that should you need meds, they

will not be covered under your insurance plan. I was forced into

retirement when I came forward and told my company that I had Hep-C.

But that was back in '92. I was treated like a complete outsider. I

was advised by my boss and by the execs of the compnay that it would

be in my best interest to retire and go for disability. So little was

known about hep-c back then and the treatment was much harsher and

totally experimental. I had to threaten my insurance company to get

them to pay for my first tx treatment in '94. That was also the year

the company told me my services were no longer needed.

>

> If you feel threatened about telling your boss, you may need to

get yourself a good lawyer just incase they want to get aintsy about

your job. I wish I had.

>

> Steve...

> Love is all you need

>

> ---------------------------------

> Take the Internet to Go: Go puts the Internet in your

pocket: mail, news, photos more.

>

>

>

>

> Jackie

>

[Guest guest]

When i started treatment and started having trouble working I decided

to tell my employer and they acted like they were cool with it. Then

a few months later, they did some " Restructuring " and i was let go

because of that. So while an employer might not directly fire someone

for that reason, they can always say it is for something else.

The problem is that if you dont tell them they will know something is

up anyway, because this treatment makes you sick and you cant hide

that. They can see it in you. I have to miss days and on the days i

do go to work i jst do the best i can which on most days isnt that

much.

For myself, I chose not to tell my new employer due to the negative

connotation that is associated with hepatitis C. Instead, I told him

i have some " medical problems " that i am currently taking care of and

that may cause me to miss work and be a little tired sometimes.

> If you do not tell your employeer that you have Hep-C,

then you are risking the probability that should you need meds, they

will not be covered under your insurance plan. I was forced into

retirement when I came forward and told my company that I had Hep-C.

But that was back in '92. I was treated like a complete outsider. I

was advised by my boss and by the execs of the compnay that it would

be in my best interest to retire and go for disability. So little was

known about hep-c back then and the treatment was much harsher and

totally experimental. I had to threaten my insurance company to get

them to pay for my first tx treatment in '94. That was also the year

the company told me my services were no longer needed.

>

> If you feel threatened about telling your boss, you may need to

get yourself a good lawyer just incase they want to get aintsy about

your job. I wish I had.

>

> Steve...

> Love is all you need

>

> ---------------------------------

> Take the Internet to Go: Go puts the Internet in your

pocket: mail, news, photos more.

>

>

>

>

> Jackie

>

[Guest guest]

I know that some companies are like that and it should be illegal for them to do that,, that really makes me mad! I guess that what I'd do if it were me and I were once again faced with that kind of decision,,, I wouldnt tell them initially,, and when tx started making me sicker, I'd take a medical leave of absense or something... HOW can they get away with that???? I was just so lucky I guess,, richlee7 <rnewton8@...> wrote: When i started treatment and started having trouble working I

decided to tell my employer and they acted like they were cool with it. Then a few months later, they did some "Restructuring" and i was let go because of that. So while an employer might not directly fire someone for that reason, they can always say it is for something else. The problem is that if you dont tell them they will know something is up anyway, because this treatment makes you sick and you cant hide that. They can see it in you. I have to miss days and on the days i do go to work i jst do the best i can which on most days isnt that much.For myself, I chose not to tell my new employer due to the negative connotation that is associated with hepatitis C. Instead, I told him i have some "medical problems" that i am currently taking care of and that may cause me to miss work and be a little tired sometimes.> If you do not tell your employeer that you have Hep-C, then you are risking the probability that should you need meds, they will not be covered under your insurance plan. I was forced into retirement when I came forward and told my company that I had Hep-C. But that was back in '92. I was treated like a complete outsider. I was advised by my boss and by the execs of the compnay that it would be in my best interest to retire and go for disability. So little was known about hep-c back then and the treatment was much harsher and totally experimental. I had to threaten my insurance company to

get them to pay for my first tx treatment in '94. That was also the year the company told me my services were no longer needed. > > If you feel threatened about telling your boss, you may need to get yourself a good lawyer just incase they want to get aintsy about your job. I wish I had.> > Steve...> Love is all you need> > ---------------------------------> Take the Internet to Go: Go puts the Internet in your pocket: mail, news, photos more. > > > > > Jackie>Jackie

[Guest guest]

well I agree mostly with ya Steve,, but I do not think that one could be sued if someone else got infected from touching your blood,, ANY job that has machinery that could hurt someone probably does have classes on Infectious diseases or blood borne pathogens.. there would be some responsibility of another employee to protect themselves too... I know that with MY job as a paramedic, I was always exposed to God knows what, so I did tell my boss and I was just very blessed to have good employers.. they knew that I would do what I needed to do in order to protect myself with "universal precautions" ON EVERY Patient, regardless of the reason for the call,, every time I exited my ambulance, I HAD MY GLOVES ON, My goggles on and I was very very careful not to infect myself with anything,, silly now in thinking back on all of this, I was ALREADY infected and didnt know it! lol,, but I dont think anyone could sue you for infection unless you purposefully cut

yourself and made yourself bleed into another cut or wound... just my 2 cents tho!stevebridgers <stevebridgers@...> wrote: Jackie,I am in complete agreement with you on the part of not telling unless your going to do tx. But in my job, I did run the risk of being cut and having others exposed to my blood. I was a mid-level manager in a manufacturing plant and those machines can get nasty sometimes. They seem to attack you when you are trying to be careful. If they person in this post

is in a possition where others will be affected by her hep c and she doesn't not let them know, and since we know so much more about hep c now than we did a few years ago, there is also the chance of legal ramifications if she contaminates someone with the virus and she knew she had it and did not make others aware..,Steve...> If you do not tell your employeer that you have Hep-C, then you are risking the probability that should you need meds, they will not be covered under your insurance plan. I was forced into retirement when I came forward and told my company that I

had Hep-C. But that was back in '92. I was treated like a complete outsider. I was advised by my boss and by the execs of the compnay that it would be in my best interest to retire and go for disability. So little was known about hep-c back then and the treatment was much harsher and totally experimental. I had to threaten my insurance company to get them to pay for my first tx treatment in '94. That was also the year the company told me my services were no longer needed. > > If you feel threatened about telling your boss, you may need to get yourself a good lawyer just incase they want to get aintsy about your job. I wish I had.> > Steve...> Love is all you need> > ---------------------------------> Take the Internet to Go: Go puts the Internet in your pocket: mail, news, photos more. > > > > >

Jackie>Jackie

[Guest guest]

Hi there,, welcome to the group! I am not sure that anyone else has had this same experience but Im sure that if someone has, they will speak up,, I hope you will be able to treat successfully soon,, hugs, jaxraggzcutie@... wrote: Hi all, Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test

when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection. It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!? Jackie

[Guest guest]

I can't help but think that your diagnosis coming so soon after completing chemo may be wrong . Have you had a retest to verify the diagnosis ?

Just found out

Hi all,

Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection.

I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.

It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!?

[Guest guest]

Oh I forgot my manners , welcome to the group I am . I am brain dead most of the time so forgive me lol

Just found out

Hi all,

Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection.

I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.

It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!?

[Guest guest]

Well, thank you. I have found it to be very scary. Like suddenly I've found out I'm toxic and I don't want anyone to know because they will start treating me different.

I am married, 32, and have 2 small children. I told my spiritual leader because I was so upset, I was hoping he could give me some encouragment and help me figure it out because of my kids. I was scared people would treat my kids differently. Within the week he had spoken to 2 doctors, a nurse, and told the Senior Pastor and they removed me from the children's ministry and suggested God is moving me in a different direction and I should never work with children again for their own safety.

I haven't even had my first specialist appt. yet!!!!

Anyway, I know it was hard for him to tell me that but it was hard for me to take on top of it all. I don't want to be angry and unforgiving but it was exactly what I was afraid of.

Anyway, the church really helped us alot when I had cancer but I don't feel that I can tell anyone else about what is going on because of the reactions that suddenly I am a walking disease.

Re: Just found out

Hi there,, welcome to the group!

I am not sure that anyone else has had this same experience but Im sure that if someone has, they will speak up,, I hope you will be able to treat successfully soon,,

hugs, jaxraggzcutiepeoplepc wrote:

Hi all,

Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection.

I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.

It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!?

Jackie

[Guest guest]

You must be in a small town and have an ignorant doctor . This disease is blood to blood only , not like HIV .

Re: Just found out

Hi there,, welcome to the group!

I am not sure that anyone else has had this same experience but Im sure that if someone has, they will speak up,, I hope you will be able to treat successfully soon,,

hugs, jaxraggzcutiepeoplepc wrote:

Hi all,

Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection.

I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.

It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!?

Jackie

[Guest guest]

Some people still attach a stigma to it and jump to the conclusion that only drug users get hep c and they are undesirable people. I have had to fight prejudging as well, but I'm old and don't care what people's opinions are any more in that respect. Sharon Re: Just found outHi there,, welcome to the group!I am not sure that anyone else has had this same experience but Im sure that if someone has, they will speak up,, I hope you will be able to treat successfully soon,, hugs, jaxraggzcutiepeoplepc wrote:Hi all,Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection. It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!?Jackie

[Guest guest]

haha Sharon, YOU SOUND LIKE ME honey!!! Us older folks really dont care what others think of us cuz WE KNOW we are good people,, but younger people can really struggle with it!SHARON CROSBY <csharonxoxo@...> wrote: Some people still attach a stigma to it and jump to the conclusion that only drug users get hep c and they are undesirable people. I have had to fight prejudging as well, but I'm old and don't care what

people's opinions are any more in that respect. Sharon Re: Just found out Hi there,, welcome to the group! I am not sure that anyone else has had this same experience but Im sure that if someone has, they will speak up,, I hope you will be able to treat successfully soon,, hugs, jaxraggzcutiepeoplepc wrote: Hi all, Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection. It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!? Jackie Jackie

[Guest guest]

oh hon, YOU NEED to take some info to your church to EDUCATE THEM about this disease,, YOU CANNOT infect a baby just from holding them, or feeding them, or changing their diapers, or reading a bible story to them,, HOW STUPID are these ppl??? YOU MUST EDUCATE them.. what they are doing is totally ignorant.. you can tell them I said so too,, I ran my churches nursery years ago when I had hep,, I didnt know I had it but the point is, you will NOT contaminate them,, how stupid are these ppl??? Please, lets all gather some info that she can take to her church,, she is NOT going to hurt anyones child by taking care of them in the church nursery!raggzcutie@... wrote: Well, thank you. I have found it to be very scary. Like suddenly I've found out I'm toxic and I don't want anyone to know because they will start treating me different. I am married, 32, and have 2 small children. I told my spiritual leader because I was so upset, I was hoping he could give me some encouragment and help me figure it out because of my kids. I was scared people would treat my kids differently. Within the week he had spoken to 2 doctors, a nurse, and told the Senior Pastor and they removed me from the children's ministry and suggested God is moving me in a different direction and I should never work with children again for their own safety. I haven't even had my first

specialist appt. yet!!!! Anyway, I know it was hard for him to tell me that but it was hard for me to take on top of it all. I don't want to be angry and unforgiving but it was exactly what I was afraid of. Anyway, the church really helped us alot when I had cancer but I don't feel that I can tell anyone else about what is going on because of the reactions that suddenly I am a walking disease. Re: Just found out Hi there,, welcome to the group! I am not sure that anyone else has had this same experience but Im sure that if someone has, they will speak up,, I hope you will be able to treat successfully soon,, hugs, jaxraggzcutiepeoplepc wrote: Hi all, Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver

enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection. It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!? Jackie Jackie

[Guest guest]

First of all I would be looking for a new church home. Your Senior Pastor acted very inappropriate for a pastor. You told him something in confidence. He should have kept his mouth shut. Pastors,Priest, Rabbi's have a obligation of keeping your confidence. How do I know this??? Because I am the daughter of a Pastor. I grew up in the church environment. By the way I am Janet, one of the Owners of this group. I get angry when people have misconceptions about this disease. Because they do not take the time to inform their selves before they act. I know my father would have researched the disease should a

parson er had come to him with their worries. You can only get Hepatitis C from blood to blood transfer. Let me give you some idea of the people with Hep C, I am a nurse. I worked in ICU,CCU, PICU(that is pediatric ICU), Surgical floor, Rehab, and the Psych floor. I got Hepatitis C from a patient from a needle stick. Jackie and Liz are paramedics, saved lives on a daily basis. Health care workers have this disease. Alot of us got this disease as a result of being on our jobs.Dr's, Nurses,Nurse's Assistance and so forth have been infected. Yet many of us continued to work in the health care field taking extra precaution to

protect others(our co-workers and patients). You can not get Hepatitis C from a hand shake, a hug,sitting beside me. You can't get it from swimming in the same pool as me, or even drinking after me. (I wouldn't advise that because sharing a glass is just nasty). I can cook you a meal and you can enjoy it knowing that you will not get Hep C. What I am trying to say, is you were unfairly judged sweety. I am going to research for you a good book or pamphlet to give to friends and those that you are faced with. I know that Roche has one, and so does Sherling. I am not really pleased with the information that they give folks in them. But it is better than

nothing. Love Janet raggzcutie@... wrote: Well, thank you. I have found it to be very scary. Like suddenly I've found out I'm toxic and I don't want anyone to know because they will start treating me different. I am married, 32, and have 2 small children. I told my

spiritual leader because I was so upset, I was hoping he could give me some encouragment and help me figure it out because of my kids. I was scared people would treat my kids differently. Within the week he had spoken to 2 doctors, a nurse, and told the Senior Pastor and they removed me from the children's ministry and suggested God is moving me in a different direction and I should never work with children again for their own safety. I haven't even had my first specialist appt. yet!!!! Anyway, I know it was hard for him to tell me that but it was hard for me to take on top of it all. I don't want to be angry and unforgiving but it was exactly what I was afraid of. Anyway, the church really helped us alot when I had cancer but I don't feel that I can tell anyone else about what is going on because of the reactions that suddenly I am a

walking disease. Re: Just found out Hi there,, welcome to the group! I am not sure that anyone else has had this same experience but Im sure that if someone has, they will speak up,, I hope you will be able to treat successfully soon,, hugs,

jaxraggzcutiepeoplepc wrote: Hi all, Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection. It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!? Jackie Who knows what is around life's

corner, so why worry about it.

[Guest guest]

Hi and welcome. I'm sorry to hear about what your church has done but

children are always getting scratched and hurt and since our disease

is a blood to blood tranferable disease it may be best that you

accept the fact that you shouldn't work with children. I have a

friend who was a cheif and he had to give up his job when he found he

had hep C. That was his life.

I work as a church administrator and my church has stood behind me

100%. I work with the adudio visual and music depts. There are other

areas in your church where you can help.

In the early days, everyone thought HCV was transferable by any body

fluid and we were treated as " outsiders. " People are more educated

now and understand us a little better. Of those who mistreat or shun

you, there is the possibility that 23% of them have the virus and

don't know it. Don't be afriad to let those around you know what you

are fighting. Your church family can offer support you can't get

anywhere else, except maybe here...

KTF

Steve...

> Hi all,

> Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come

after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's

lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when

bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an

active Hep C infection.

>

> I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The

nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.

>

> It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone

else?!?

>

>

>

> Jackie

>

[Guest guest]

Dear Cutie,

I just wrote a scathing response about this ahem.... spiritual leader

of yours and then have edited it as much as is humanly possible for

someone who is as triggered and angry as I am by the way you were

treated. I realize it has touched off my own rage at ignorant people

in places of power - especially sacred spiritual power. I have so

much to say, one email won't do it, so I will try to get to one

point.

I agree with Jackie in educating this ignorant-person-in-power-over-

others-lives. This diagnosis is a huge wallop that we don't expect

even if you did get if from IV drug use in the past. No one deserves

to be judge and executioner. Educate him, then find someone who will

support you in what you are going through, not alienate you and make

you feel bad about yourself. You should in no way feel bad about

yourself - he should feel bad about himself - but you shouldn't. You

reached out for help and got slapped in the face. The betrayal must

be awful, you needn't feel bad or guilty or shamed or sorry about

anything. This is on him. He owes you an amends, but I wouldn't hold

my breath waiting, just educate the @#$% and then move on.

Ignorance coupled with fear is scary things, it has the potential to

hurt people deeply. Especially when they are in a position of power

(bring any presidents to mind? - but that is a whole other email,

ahem...)

When I was diagnosed with this and some other illnesses my world fell

apart and I decided after many non-supportive doctors visits etc...

that I was going to surround myself with my own 'dream team' of

support. We don't need to listen to crap about us that isn't our own

truth. I am sorry for being so angry, it is in no way at you. I wish

you all the love and support and comfort you deserve and hope you

find the resources to help you through this difficult time. Hopefully

catching it this soon is a very good thing.

Warm wishes,

Hepatitis C , Jackie on <redjaxjm@...>

wrote:

>

> oh hon, YOU NEED to take some info to your church to EDUCATE THEM

about this disease,, YOU CANNOT infect a baby just from holding them,

or feeding them, or changing their diapers, or reading a bible story

to them,, HOW STUPID are these ppl??? YOU MUST EDUCATE them.. what

they are doing is totally ignorant.. you can tell them I said so

too,, I ran my churches nursery years ago when I had hep,, I didnt

know I had it but the point is, you will NOT contaminate them,, how

stupid are these ppl???

> Please, lets all gather some info that she can take to her

church,, she is NOT going to hurt anyones child by taking care of

them in the church nursery!

>

> raggzcutie@... wrote:

> Well, thank you. I have found it to be very scary. Like

suddenly I've found out I'm toxic and I don't want anyone to know

because they will start treating me different.

> I am married, 32, and have 2 small children. I told my spiritual

leader because I was so upset, I was hoping he could give me some

encouragment and help me figure it out because of my kids. I was

scared people would treat my kids differently. Within the week he had

spoken to 2 doctors, a nurse, and told the Senior Pastor and they

removed me from the children's ministry and suggested God is moving

me in a different direction and I should never work with children

again for their own safety.

> I haven't even had my first specialist appt. yet!!!!

> Anyway, I know it was hard for him to tell me that but it was

hard for me to take on top of it all. I don't want to be angry and

unforgiving but it was exactly what I was afraid of.

> Anyway, the church really helped us alot when I had cancer but I

don't feel that I can tell anyone else about what is going on because

of the reactions that suddenly I am a walking disease.

>

> Re: Just found out

>

>

> Hi there,, welcome to the group!

> I am not sure that anyone else has had this same experience but

Im sure that if someone has, they will speak up,, I hope you will be

able to treat successfully soon,,

> hugs, jax

>

> raggzcutie@... wrote:

> Hi all,

> Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after

a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I

was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came

back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C

infection.

>

> I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The

nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.

>

> It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone

else?!?

>

>

>

>

>

>

> Jackie

>

>

>

>

>

>

> Jackie

>

[Guest guest]

Im sorry Steve but I totally disagree with you.. and your friend should NEVER have given up his job,, you cannot get Hep c from EATING it.. unless you have a cut in your mouth ,, but what restaurant would serve food laced with blood to begin with? and who'd want to eat there? I had this disease and didnt know it for 23 years and during the first 11 years, I was still married to my kids father, and NONE of them are infected.. I cooked, I fed my kids, I breast fed my daughter after being infected ,, there is NOTHING to prevent her from working in the nursery with children at church.. NOTHING.. At least SHE KNOWS she has it and can be careful should SHE cut herself,, 75% of those infected today do NOT even know.. SHE is SAFER than MOST of the other folks working in the nursery... Im NOT trying to jump your rearend over this, but what YOU SAID just helps to propigate further discrimination and thats WRONG,, and it is based upon ignorance NOT

FACT... stevebridgers <stevebridgers@...> wrote: Hi and welcome. I'm sorry to hear about what your church has done but children are always getting scratched and hurt and since our disease is a blood to blood tranferable disease it may be best that you accept the fact that you shouldn't work with children. I have a friend who was a cheif and he had to give up his job when he found he had hep C. That was his life.I work as a church administrator and my church has stood behind me 100%.

I work with the adudio visual and music depts. There are other areas in your church where you can help. In the early days, everyone thought HCV was transferable by any body fluid and we were treated as "outsiders." People are more educated now and understand us a little better. Of those who mistreat or shun you, there is the possibility that 23% of them have the virus and don't know it. Don't be afriad to let those around you know what you are fighting. Your church family can offer support you can't get anywhere else, except maybe here...KTFSteve...> Hi all,> Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. > > I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr.

yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.> > It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!?> > > > Jackie>Jackie

[Guest guest]

AMEN Janet!! God Bless you honey!Janet <doc_jade@...> wrote: First of all I would be looking for a new church home. Your Senior Pastor acted very inappropriate for a pastor. You told him something in confidence. He should have kept his mouth shut. Pastors,Priest, Rabbi's have a obligation of keeping your confidence. How do I know this??? Because I am

the daughter of a Pastor. I grew up in the church environment. By the way I am Janet, one of the Owners of this group. I get angry when people have misconceptions about this disease. Because they do not take the time to inform their selves before they act. I know my father would have researched the disease should a parson er had come to him with their worries. You can only get Hepatitis C from blood to blood transfer. Let me give you some idea of the people with Hep C, I am a nurse. I worked in ICU,CCU, PICU(that is pediatric ICU), Surgical floor, Rehab, and the Psych

floor. I got Hepatitis C from a patient from a needle stick. Jackie and Liz are paramedics, saved lives on a daily basis. Health care workers have this disease. Alot of us got this disease as a result of being on our jobs.Dr's, Nurses,Nurse's Assistance and so forth have been infected. Yet many of us continued to work in the health care field taking extra precaution to protect others(our co-workers and patients). You can not get Hepatitis C from a hand shake, a hug,sitting beside me. You can't get it from swimming in the same pool as me, or even drinking after me. (I wouldn't advise that because sharing a glass is just nasty). I can cook you a meal and you can enjoy it knowing that you will not get Hep C.

What I am trying to say, is you were unfairly judged sweety. I am going to research for you a good book or pamphlet to give to friends and those that you are faced with. I know that Roche has one, and so does Sherling. I am not really pleased with the information that they give folks in them. But it is better than nothing. Love Janet raggzcutiepeoplepc wrote: Well, thank you. I have found it to be very scary. Like

suddenly I've found out I'm toxic and I don't want anyone to know because they will start treating me different. I am married, 32, and have 2 small children. I told my spiritual leader because I was so upset, I was hoping he could give me some encouragment and help me figure it out because of my kids. I was scared people would treat my kids differently. Within the week he had spoken to 2 doctors, a nurse, and told the Senior Pastor and they removed me from the children's ministry and suggested God is moving me in a different direction and I should never work with children again for their own safety. I haven't even had my first specialist appt. yet!!!! Anyway, I know it was hard for him to tell me that but it was hard for me to take on top of it all. I don't want to be angry and unforgiving but it was exactly what I was afraid of.

Anyway, the church really helped us alot when I had cancer but I don't feel that I can tell anyone else about what is going on because of the reactions that suddenly I am a walking disease. Re: Just found out Hi there,, welcome to

the group! I am not sure that anyone else has had this same experience but Im sure that if someone has, they will speak up,, I hope you will be able to treat successfully soon,, hugs, jaxraggzcutiepeoplepc wrote: Hi all, Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a

recent infection. It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!? Jackie Who knows what is around life's corner, so why worry about it. Jackie

[Guest guest]

Re: Just found out

Hi and welcome. I'm sorry to hear about what your church has done but children are always getting scratched and hurt and since our disease is a blood to blood tranferable disease it may be best that you accept the fact that you shouldn't work with children. I have a friend who was a cheif and he had to give up his job when he found he had hep C. That was his life.I work as a church administrator and my church has stood behind me 100%. I work with the adudio visual and music depts. There are other areas in your church where you can help. In the early days, everyone thought HCV was transferable by any body fluid and we were treated as "outsiders." People are more educated now and understand us a little better. Of those who mistreat or shun you, there is the possibility that 23% of them have the virus and don't know it. Don't be afriad to let those around you know what you are fighting. Your church family can offer support you can't get anywhere else, except maybe here...KTFSteve...> Hi all,> Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. > > I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.> > It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!?> > > > Jackie>

[Guest guest]

Janet,

OK, I messed up. I didn't check my stuff before I opened my mouth. I

lost my job because of ignorance in the work place and I worked in a

place where nicks and cuts were a way of life. My friend was

discriminiated against and the hotel chain he worked for was more

concerned that he may infect fellow workers more they were concerned

about the handling of food.

If someone feels they have been discriminated against because of this

disease they should contact an attorney. People in places of power

should educated themselves before making decisions that deeply affect

the lives and livelyhoods of others. But sometimes it's hard to

educated people who don't want to listen. They would rather have

ignorance and bliss than to have understanding.

Again my deepest apologies...

KTF

Steve B.

> > Hi all,

> > Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come

> after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's

> lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when

> bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough...

an

> active Hep C infection.

> >

> > I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The

> nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.

> >

> > It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone

> else?!?

> >

> >

> >

> > Jackie

> >

>

>

>

>

>

>

> Jackie

>

[Guest guest]

As soon as the complete Liver Function Tests are part of the annual CBC checkup the true pandemic called "Hepatitis" will be realized. Currently this disease is as taboo as depression, but not for long. Soon it will be looked at as an influenza virus that doesn't go away. The same people working on the bird flu are working aggressively on Hepatitis. Do not let people that have not been tested yet dictate how you can live your life. I look to science, not religion for answers. If you do not get the support from your friends or church, find new friends and a church that will. You should never fear your God, or the hypocrites that invade his domain. Push fear to one side and guilt to

the other and just be happy. I have had a lifetime full of illnesses and until I incorporated this philosophy I always worried about what others thought. Have a great day and look at this illness as another punch in the stomach that can be dealt with on your terms. raggzcutie@... wrote: Re: Just found out Hi and welcome. I'm sorry to hear about what your church has done but children are always getting scratched and hurt and since our disease is a blood to blood tranferable disease it may be best that you accept the fact that you shouldn't work with children. I have a friend who was a cheif and he had to give up his job when he found he had hep C. That was his life.I work as a church administrator and my church has stood behind me 100%. I work with the adudio visual and music depts. There are other areas in your church where you can help. In the early days,

everyone thought HCV was transferable by any body fluid and we were treated as "outsiders." People are more educated now and understand us a little better. Of those who mistreat or shun you, there is the possibility that 23% of them have the virus and don't know it. Don't be afriad to let those around you know what you are fighting. Your church family can offer support you can't get anywhere else, except maybe here...KTFSteve...> Hi all,> Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. > > I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.>

> It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!?> > > > Jackie>

Need a vacation? Get great deals to amazing places on Travel.

[Guest guest]

its all cool Steve,, no offense taken,, we just want correct info out there .. Im sorry your friend was discriminated against, there would be NO WAY he would infect his co-workers any more than he would infect those he cooked for,, With as much blood and body fluids I WORKED WITH on the ambulance, I did not ever infect anyone,, and no one ever infected me because I took proper precautions.. and IM sure your friend would and did too.. He should have sued for wrongful termination.. Im so sorry you lost your job too,, NO one should lose their job, MY Gosh, there are Dentists and surgeons with HIV and HEP C,, and they still practice surgery,, but Im sure they are even more careful.. how tragic that this disease harms our life in so many ways! No offense hon,, but I had to say something,, No one should lose their job , and for someone to lose their voluntary position at a church nursery was sort of the straw that broke THIS camels

back! hugs, jackiestevebridgers <stevebridgers@...> wrote: Janet,OK, I messed up. I didn't check my stuff before I opened my mouth. I lost my job because of ignorance in the work place and I worked in a place where nicks and cuts were a way of life. My friend was discriminiated against and the hotel chain he worked for was more concerned that he may infect fellow workers more they were concerned about the handling of food. If someone feels they have been

discriminated against because of this disease they should contact an attorney. People in places of power should educated themselves before making decisions that deeply affect the lives and livelyhoods of others. But sometimes it's hard to educated people who don't want to listen. They would rather have ignorance and bliss than to have understanding.Again my deepest apologies...KTFSteve B.> > Hi all,> > Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come > after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's > lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when > bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an > active Hep C infection. > > > > I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The > nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.> > > > It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone > else?!?> > > > > > > > Jackie> >> > > > > > > Jackie>Jackie

[Guest guest]

Honey, YOU SHOULD work with ANY KIDS YOU WISH,, there is NO REASON that you cannot work with infants or ANY children of ANY AGE.. As long as you wash your hands before and after changing diapers which EVERYONE should be doing anyway, and as long as you use 'universal precautions' IF there is body fluids or blood or open wounds,, but you dont need to wear gloves just to hold a baby, or to feed a baby,, Please do not give up your dreams,, do NOT let this disease take any more of your life than it already has,, there IS NO NEED for that,, NONE whatsoever... and DO NOT STAY HOME,, NEVER GIVE IN TO THIS VIRUS,, THERE IS NO NEED FOR THAT,,,, hang on hon,, you are gonna make it!raggzcutie@... wrote: Re: Just found out Hi and welcome. I'm sorry to hear about what your church has done but children are always getting scratched and hurt and since our disease is a blood to blood tranferable disease it may be best that you accept the fact that you shouldn't work with children. I have a friend who was a cheif and he had to give up his job when he found he had hep C. That was his life.I work as a church administrator and my church has stood

behind me 100%. I work with the adudio visual and music depts. There are other areas in your church where you can help. In the early days, everyone thought HCV was transferable by any body fluid and we were treated as "outsiders." People are more educated now and understand us a little better. Of those who mistreat or shun you, there is the possibility that 23% of them have the virus and don't know it. Don't be afriad to let those around you know what you are fighting. Your church family can offer support you can't get anywhere else, except maybe here...KTFSteve...> Hi all,> Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. > > I haven't even had my

first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.> > It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!?> > > > Jackie> Jackie

[Guest guest]

Honey, once you educate yourself about this virus, YOU WILL have the courage to stand up and educate others and you will feel NO SHAME,, You just need to learn about this and it will give you confidence,, and then NO one will get in your way,, do NOT give up your dreams,, DO NOT,, there IS NO REASON for that,, raggzcutie@... wrote: Re: Just found out Hi there,, welcome to the group! I am not sure that anyone else has had this same experience but Im sure that if someone has, they will speak up,, I hope you will be able to treat successfully soon,, hugs, jaxraggzcutiepeoplepc wrote: Hi all, Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection. It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!? Jackie Who knows what is around life's corner, so why worry about it. Jackie

[Guest guest]

You got that right Jackie, I am reminded of the young lady who joined this group just a short while ago who is in nursing school !!! Is this disease stopping her?? No way . Do what you want to do in life, nothing should stop ya honey!!! I am not letting it stop me. Love Janet Okay, Okay I will admit something. I have been wanting to go mountain climbing lately, and I have not had the energy to do so. But you bet your booty, I will climb one of the mountains around here, you just watch!!! Love again Janet Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Honey, YOU SHOULD work with ANY KIDS YOU WISH,, there is NO REASON that you cannot work with infants or ANY children of ANY AGE.. As long as you wash your hands before and after changing diapers which EVERYONE should be doing anyway, and as long as you use 'universal precautions' IF there is body fluids or blood or open wounds,, but you dont need to wear gloves just to hold a baby, or to feed a baby,, Please do not give up your dreams,, do NOT let this disease take any more of your life than it already has,, there IS NO NEED for that,, NONE

whatsoever... and DO NOT STAY HOME,, NEVER GIVE IN TO THIS VIRUS,, THERE IS NO NEED FOR THAT,,,, hang on hon,, you are gonna make it!raggzcutiepeoplepc wrote: Re: Just found out Hi and welcome. I'm sorry to hear about what your church has done but children are always getting scratched and hurt and since our disease is a blood to blood tranferable disease it may be best that you accept the fact that you shouldn't work with children. I have a friend who was a cheif and he had to give up his job when he found

he had hep C. That was his life.I work as a church administrator and my church has stood behind me 100%. I work with the adudio visual and music depts. There are other areas in your church where you can help. In the early days, everyone thought HCV was transferable by any body fluid and we were treated as "outsiders." People are more educated now and understand us a little better. Of those who mistreat or shun you, there is the possibility that 23% of them have the virus and don't know it. Don't be afriad to let those around you know what you are fighting. Your church family can offer support you can't get anywhere else, except maybe here...KTFSteve...> Hi all,> Unfortunately I just found out I have Hep C. This has come after a year of chemo and radiation treatments for hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just celebrating my first cancer free test when bloodwork came back my liver enzymes were

elevated. Sure enough... an active Hep C infection. > > I haven't even had my first appt. to see a gastro dr. yet. The nurses seem to think this is a recent infection.> > It would really help to hear a story similar to mine. Anyone else?!?> > > > Jackie> Jackie Who knows what is around life's corner, so why worry about it.