The loss of my dad in his early 20's I hope can persuade "Baby Boomers" to be checked #HepC

                            



My mom and dad are baby boomer's. My dad passed away at a very young age in his early 20's. I really do not remember him I was just a baby. I look at photos of when I was a baby and do not know my dad. As I write it makes me so sad. I did not have my dad with me my entire life. I was young when they were no longer together. 


We know he passed from liver disease but it was said he had Hepatitis C that made his liver fail. He had cirrhosis of the liver which happens from Hepatitis C. If we knew then what we knew now would my dad still be here ? I know so.

Would I know him and would he have seen me grow up?

Would he be here with me now ?
Would I have had the chance to have a dad ?

   

Are you a baby boomer ? Baby Boomer consists of people born between the years of 1946 – 1964. I am a few years short of being a baby boomer. As a group, they were the wealthiest, most active, and most physically fit and after WWII couples were now ready to start their families and that is what started the baby boom. They were the first 

to grow up expecting the world to improve with time.

Unfortunately, the baby boomer era is known for having the highest rate of Hepatitis C. Most boomers are believed to have been infected in the 1970's and 1980's. The most important thing to know is that you can go decades without symptoms and have Hepatitis C creep up on you when you least expect it. It is so important for everyone to be tested. A simple blood test can save you or your loved ones life. 

Before 1992 blood was not tested or screened for sensitive tests such as (HCV). People who had organ donations, blood transfusions before 1992 are at a higher risk. Health care workers who were  accidentally stuck by a needle helping an infected person is at risk. You could get hepatitis C through contact with an infected person's blood.

                       

Take a few moments to watch the above video

Now that I have explained how and who is at risk for Hepatitis C don't you think it is important to be tested? Shouldn't you and your family members be tested to? An easy test that can be performed by your doctor. It is an antibodies test done by a blood test.  You can read more information here knowing the facts.

Here is information from Quest that contains important facts and information you should read. Download the patient brochure here take a quiz. Most Baby Boomers don't know much about Hepatitis C, how it is contracted, risk factors and symptoms. 

Ask your doctor about being testing for Hep C
May is Hepatitis Awareness Month

 Learn More About World Hepatits Day
Here


Remember, I never got to know my dad because of this disease. Please do not let this happen to you or a family member. It is treatable and so many people live a full life with treatment. 

#ad #HepC #VN

I am participating in a VIN campaign for Quest Diagnostics. I am receiving a fee for posting; however, the opinions expressed in this post are my own. I am in no way affiliated with Quest Diagnostics and do not earn a commission or percent of sales.