The World Through My Lens

2009-02-17T20:08:00.000-08:00

Moving On

Obviously this Blog has shifted gears as I am no longer so focused on the topic of Hepatitis C. I would like to leave this blog as is for those who are searching for Hep C info and I don't want to clutter it up with new subject matter so I'm moving to a new blog, http://regentlynx.livejournal.com/.

Hope to see you there.

Blessed and Grateful

2008-10-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe it's been over a year since I've interacted with this blog!!! And what a year it has been. I feel somewhat ashamed of myself for not continuing this blog while undergoing the ordeal of the interferon/ribavirin combo therapy. Not because I let a large readership down...LOL...hard to do that when you can count on your fingers the number of readers on any given day. However, I do wish I had kept blogging during the ordeal of interferon therapy, if only to encourage just one person or two it would have been worth it.

Well, to quickly bring things up to date I did finish the entire course of combo therapy and gratefully had full response as within two months my viral load was cleared and remained so throughout the remainder of the therapy. This past Monday, two days ago, I received the blessed news that my viral load was still clear after submitting the six months post interferon blood sample :-) (actually at the time I had my blood drawn it had been 7 months since I finished the interferon therapy).I can't begin to convey just how blessed I feel, to finally be free of the "flu like" symptoms I've had off and on all these years. Oh yes, thankfully enough my liver enzymes are now completely within normal limits on the lab test, this after being chronically elevated for years.

During the course of therapy it was a real struggle at times. Many times I really had to lean on my loving and patient wife for support in order to keep going, not to mention she was my memory many times, during the six month protocol she made sure I did not miss a single dose. The main side effects I experienced were body aches, lethargy, malaise, depression, "brain fog" and mainly just a loss of vitality. I didn't care whether I even bathed at times much less whether or not I continued this blog. The entire experience was very humbling since besides the love and encouragement I received from my wife, my friends at work went above and beyond the call of friendship as they all pitched in and worked extra hard to make up for the loss of a pair of working hands, I know that was especially trying at times especially when things get busy as they always do in a medical clinic. I was also incredibly blessed as my immediate supervisors at work covered for me and made sure my job was there and waiting for me once I was physically able to return to work. Everyone's love and patience was greatly appreciated and I am eternally grateful!

The main message I wish to convey is that I now feel it is wise and worth it to undergo the interferon/ribavirin therapy if your doctor recommends it. As those who read this blog from the beginning are aware this was not my attitude when I initially discovered I was positive for Hep C. I was a very strong advocate, not only here but on several Hep C online Message Boards for the alternative medicine route, Chinese Herbal medicine etc. Though I still believe it is probable that using those options slowed down the diseases progression and did provide some relief and allowed me to work for several years despite the infection I now know that conventional medicine was the only thing, at least in my case, which provided complete relief. I won't paint a completely rosy picture and tell anyone that interferon therapy is easy, no, to the contrary, it is a very difficult thing to undergo and does require commitment, resolve, support etc. I can honestly say now though, that I am very glad it was the decision I finally made, it was definitely worth it. Of course everyone is different so make sure you find a doctor you can trust and then please follow his advice and work with him. And don't give up hope, though it's hard at times try to stay positive which has definite beneficial effects.

To all those out there still battling, don't give up and stay positive. I know I try and send thoughts of encouragement and healing Rays of Light every day to all those I know that are fighting the battle. I know I'm not the only one, who keeps you in thought and prayer, so continue to fight the good fight and may you experience the healing power of Light and Love--So mote it be. Amen

1 Down 23 To Go

2007-10-12T17:49:00.000-07:00

Well, I've completed the first week of combo therapy as, with my wife's help, I injected the Intereron for the first time last Friday evening. Yes, I did get sides.......flu like body aches, loss of appetite, absolutely no energy. Had a bit of energy today, enough to do some mundane things around the house like pay bills and vacuum the carpet a tiny bit. Thankfully my lovely wife has been an angel this week, as always, she was there all week to pick up the pieces.
Well now that I'm feeling somewhat human again it's time here in another hour or so to give myself another weekly injection, getting ready for round two of this 24 round fight (thankfully my genotype, 3a only requires 24 weeks of treatment).
It turns out that I really could not have put this off any longer. I had reported in an earlier blog entry that my biopsy came back Grade 1. This was true but what my somewhat incommunicative Dr. didn't elaborate on was filled in by the nurse. As she explained and I've since confirmed by my own research is that Grade only refers to the amount of inflammation in the liver what is more important is Staging. Biopsies are staged in a 5 step point system, 0 to 4, 0 being a perfectly healthy liver and 4 being a liver suffering from cirrhosis with different Stages (1 to 3) of Fibrosis in between the two extremes. It turns out my biopsy came back Stage 3-4 which means its very fibrotic but not quite cirrhotic, but needless to say, it definitely has reached the stage where I would not want to put off conventional Combo Therapy (Interferon/Ribavirin) any longer. So I'm very glad we've got the ball rolling and with the support of my Lovely Lady I'm very determined to get through this, determined to keep my head up.

I Guess I'm Not Crazy.....

2007-09-05T13:35:00.000-07:00

Well, turns out after consulting with my General Practitioner, the GI Doc is not going to insist I see a Psychiatrist :-) Rather, he agreed with my GP Doctor's assesment that any potential depression side effects from combo therapy could be managed by her. Thus, they are recommending a Rx of the antidepressant drug Lexapro to be begun two weeks prior to the commencement of combo therapy. I have taken it for several days now and don't really like the way it makes me feel, my biggest complaint being that, for me , it seems to cause insomnia.

My liver biopsy was performed quite well yesterday, virtually painless, unlike my last one four years ago which was a bit painful. Very pleased with that, now just waiting for the report from the pathologist in hopes that any liver damage caused by the virus continues to be minimal.

Good News and Some Frustration

2007-08-25T08:56:00.000-07:00

Well, since my last posts I was seen by a local Gastroenterologist who ordered an Abdominal Ultrasound which I had performed this last Thursday and a Liver Biopsy which has been scheduled for Tues. September 04. The good news is that my lab work showed my viral genotype is type 3a. The reason this is good news is that the length of your treatment depends on what hepatitis C genotype you have. Genotype 1 generally is treated for 1 year and genotypes 2 and 3 generally are treated for 6 months. Also of significance is that studies have shown that treatment works for up to 50% of people with genotype 1 and up to 80% of people with genotype 2 or 3.

The frustration stems from being notified by my current Gastroenterologist that he won't put me on treatment until I am evaluated by a Psychiatrist for clinical depression, Clinical Depression is one of the main contraindicators for current Hepatis C Combination Therapy. This is due to the fact that when I discontinued my very short trial of interferon treatment around six years ago I mentioned the D word ("depression") as one of the reasons I wished to discontinue treatment at that time. Yes, I was a little down about not being able to work etc. and so decided to quit treatment and return to work, hoping to manage the virus with alternative methods (Chinese Herbal medicine etc). I know however, I don't have clinical depression and this is frustrating me because now that I have decided to undergo treatment I find myself anxious to get started. Oh well, for now it's hurry up and wait for the ultasound, biopsy results and the Psych referral.

As far as the labs which have come back already here is my current baseline;

AST is slightly elevated at 67
ALT is slightly elevated at 110
HDL Cholesterol is low at 37
And HCV Viral Count is at 5,790,000 (Genotype 3a)

2007-08-21T04:41:00.000-07:00

Here's to the bells that still can ring.
Forget your perfect offering.
There is a crack in everything.
That's how the light gets in.
-Leonard Cohen

A New Direction

2007-07-27T13:41:00.000-07:00

Well, my closing of this blog turns out to be a bit premature. Those of you who have been readers of this blog know that for the last couple of years I have been attempting to battle my chronic hepatitis c infection with alternative medicine, especially Chinese Herbal Medicine. I have recently come to a cross roads which has forced me to reevaluate my situation and chart a new course. Though for the most part I have been able to do what I want over the last couple of years things have continued progressing and I have continued to experience, off and on, some periods much worse than others, body aches, fatigue, lethargy, mild right upper quadrant abdomen pain and generalized "flu" like symptoms. The fact that for long stretches (months) of time I could just simply ignore these symptoms and go on, pushing myself to fulfill mundane responsiblies like my job etc. so that I could enjoy the wonderful year I have had, the highlight of which was marrying my Lady L. and enjoying a beautiful honeymoon and first year together, the fact remains, I too did also experience stretches of time where the symptoms where severe enough to limit my ability to work and take care of mundane affairs. I tend to be the eternal optimist and often found myself just pushing myself along, looking forward to the next beautiful day. Well, over the last couple of weeks I have again experienced a much more severe than usual bout of symptoms, similar too, but not quite as bad, as the first recorded in this Blog espisode of October 2005.

I am not sorry I gave Dr. Zhang's Chinese Medicine protocol a try, it definitely had some profound positive effects on my health and I am sure I am in better hepatic health today than I would have been otherwise. As mentioned it did allow me to enjoy an especially happy and rewarding period of my life. I have, however, now come to the point where I must admit this approach has not been enough, or at least, must now be augmented with more aggressive treatment methods. I am so certain of this that I actually approached my General Practioner this past week with a request for a referral to the Hepatologist I seen in June 2003 who at the time performed a liver biopsy (Grade 1, result) and offered me interferon treatment which, at the time, I declined for the option journaled here. At the time he said that was fine, he could agree to that and recommended a follow up biopsy in 2-3 years, time has a tendency to get away from one, and it has now been 4 years since this last biopsy. I am now awaiting the referral from my health insurance and will followup with this course of action. I am sure he will want to do a followup bisopsy and I am now determined to follow his subsequent recommendation, even if that is interferon treatment.

Like most guys, it's hard for me to admit to being afraid but I guess that's a large part of what I've been battling with. We all know courage is important and I am determined to muster the internal resolve to see this through but perhaps, the real key lies in the yogic Niyama (practices, observances) of Isvarapranidhana, which literally means in Sanskrit, "to lay all actions at the feet of God". Maybe self-surrender is the key, after all, as it is written, "For pure will, unassuaged of purpose, delivered from the lust of result, is every way perfect". After all, I know I have done everything in my personal power to combat this and now it's up to the Universal Will.

A Wider Lens

2007-05-28T12:08:00.001-07:00

Since I have not had anything new to post recently in regards to Hepatitis C and it's treatment I have found myself posting here very infrequently, thus, have decided to begin a new blog which will be more eclectic in it's subject material. This will allow me to leave this blog as is, without diluting it's focus on Hep C, for those mainly interested in that subject matter.

The new blog can be found at, A Wider Lens

Great Little Essay

2007-02-03T13:02:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed this post made by one of my favorite bloggers recently. He managed to distil more spiritual truth in one short essay than many books on Spirituality manage to accomplish in hundreds of pages. Kudos.

Discontinuing the Chinese Medicine for now.

2006-10-29T19:02:00.000-08:00

Well, after weighing all the factors I have decided to discontinue Dr Zhang’s herbal protocol for now. I felt great on the Chinese Medicine for about 6-8 months and then they seemed to no longer have any effect. Thus, due to the very high cost of the protocol (close to $300/month) I can no longer justify the expense. Plus there’s the factor of even though I do seem to feel somewhat better at times when I take the Chinese Medicine my liver enzymes have continued to elevate and as Ron Metcalfe commented on my last post, “I felt better when I did TCM. However my ALT's kept elevating and I could never rule them out as the protagonist.”
Thus, for now I’ve decided to discontinue the Chinese Medicine and then have my liver enzymes retested in three months to see if perhaps there is a correlation?
Having said all that, however, I can’t deny the amazing healing effects I experienced with the Chinese Medicine last October/November 2005 when I was the sickest. I felt much better within two weeks of beginning the Chinese Medicine. Maybe, the CM is better for short term healing and not so much for long term use. At any rate, I am glad I gave it a try, as I can say for certain I am much healthier now than I was a year ago.

Is No Treatment Better Than Treatment?

2006-10-11T19:34:00.000-07:00

Well, it’s time to admit that treatment with Dr. Zhang’s Modern Chinese Medicine protocol has not had the hoped for results. When I say hoped for results I mean that this chronic viral infection continues to at times interefere with my life, causing me to miss work, cancel social engagements (had to miss my Grandmother’s 84^th birthday party this past weeknend which was very discouraging) etc.

On the other hand I am far better off than I was at this time last year when I was the illest I had ever been due to this condition. How much did Dr. Zhang’s herbal protocol contribute to this improvement over the last year or how much was simply the result of the body’s natural ability to heal itself I cannot say?

At any rate, thinking about all of this over the last few days as I’ve once again been feeling ill has led me to the conclusion that for this particular viral illness no treatment at all may in fact be preferable to the current standard medically accepted treatment for Chronic Hep C infection. Consider the following which comes directly from the website of the Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention;

What are the chances of persons with HCV infection developing long term infection, chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, liver cancer, or dying as a result of hepatitis C?
Of every 100 persons infected with HCV about:

55-85 of persons might develop long-term infection
70 persons might develop chronic liver disease
5-20 persons might develop cirrhosis over a period of 20 to 30 years
1-5 of persons might die from the consequences of long term infection (liver cancer or cirrhosis)

What is the treatment for chronic hepatitis C?
Combination therapy with pegylated interferon and ribavirin is the treatment of choice resulting in sustained response rates of 40%-80%. (up to 50% for patients infected with the most common genotype found in the U.S. [genotype 1] and up to 80% for patients infected with genotypes 2 or 3). Interferon monotherapy is generally reserved for patients in whom ribavirin is contraindicated. Ribavirin, when used alone, does not work. Combination therapy using interferon and ribavirin is now FDA approved for the use in children aged 3-17 years.

What are the side effects of interferon therapy?
Most persons have flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint aches, fast heart rate) early in treatment, but these lessen with continued treatment. Later side effects may include tiredness, hair loss, low blood count, trouble with thinking, moodiness, and depression. Severe side effects are rare (seen in less than 2 out of 100 persons). These include thyroid disease, depression with suicidal thoughts, seizures, acute heart or kidney failure, eye and lung problems, hearing loss, and blood infection. Although rare, deaths have occurred due to liver failure or blood infection, mostly in persons with cirrhosis. An important side effect of interferon is worsening of liver disease with treatment, which can be severe and even fatal. Interferon dosage must be reduced in up to 40 out of 100 persons because of severity of side effects, and treatment must be stopped in up to 15 out of 100 persons. Pregnant women should not be treated with interferon.

What are the side effects of combination (ribavirin + interferon) treatment?
In addition to the side effects due to interferon described above, ribavirin can cause serious anemia (low red blood cell count) and can be a serious problem for persons with conditions that cause anemia, such as kidney failure. In these persons, combination therapy should be avoided or attempts should be made to correct the anemia. Anemia caused by ribavirin can be life-threatening for persons with certain types of heart or blood vessel disease. Ribavirin causes birth defects and pregnancy should be avoided during treatment. Patients and their healthcare providers should carefully review the product manufacturer information prior to treatment.

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To sum it all up, only 1-5 % of persons with Chronic Hepatis C infection might die from the consequences of long term infection (liver cancer or cirrhosis). Is this small percentage of risk worth the many side effects of the current medically prescribed treatment of choice, especially when the current treatment, ribavirin + interferon, is only effective for up to 50% of patients infected with the most common genotype found in the U.S. [genotype 1]!!!! Is this 50% chance worth all the risks of combination therapy? For myself, I had to answer no. After all, death is not the problem, we're all going to die. Life is the challenge and at this point I don't need the added challenge of combo therapy side effects.

For myself, medical science is going to have to give me better odds than the above. This is why, for now, I choose non-treatment over treatment. I will continue to strive to live a quality life, do what I can to better my health through practical means, good diet, meditation, exercise, positive frame of mind and perhaps more importantly in the words of Warren Zevon, “enjoy every sandwich”.

This is the day that the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it! -Psalms 118:24

It's Been A Year

2006-10-01T17:10:00.000-07:00

Well, it’s been about a year since I decided to give Dr. Zhang’s Chinese Herbal Medicine protocol for Hepatitis C a try. Was it successful? I just had another check of my liver enzymes this past month and the labs showed continued elevation of my ALT and AST enzymes. AST was now 100 compared to 110 back in May, while ALT now measures at 170 compared to 181 back in May. So judging by these criteria there is no objective improvement, but I must admit, subjectively things are much better, especially, compared to last October when I was very ill. I feel much better now, more energy and though I still have bouts of not feeling well, lethargy, malaise, body aches, loss of appetite they are nowhere near as severe as a year ago. I do know I enjoyed a round of golf this morning on a beautiful Fall day and was grateful to be there.
One important point to remember is that lab testing of liver enzymes does not in any way indicate the amount of liver damage, yes, it does show definite evidence of liver inflammation but the only true measure of actual liver damage is the liver biopsy. I have undergone two biopsies in the last 7 years and both of them graded only a 1, which leads me to believe that aggressive treatment with interferon is, in this case, unwarranted. I’m still not convinced that interferon therapy is the answer in most cases of Hepatitis C infection, especially since it can cause even further health problems and with barely a 50% success rate is it really worth the risk?
All I know is that I am able to enjoy today, and really, isn’t that enough?

“17. Also the Holy One came upon me, and I beheld a white swan floating in the blue.

18. Between its wings I sate, and the æaons fled away.

19. Then the swan flew and dived and soared, yet no whither we went.

20. A little crazy boy that rode with me spake unto the swan, and said:

21. Who art thou that dost float and fly and dive and soar in the inane? Behold, these many æons have passed; whence camest thou? Whither wilt thou go?

22. And laughing I chid him, saying: No whence! No whither!

23. The swan being silent, he answered: Then, if with no goal, why this eternal journey?

24. And I laid my head against the Head of the Swan, and laughed, saying: Is there not joy ineffable in this aimless winging? Is there not weariness and impatience for who would attain to some goal?

25. And the swan was ever silent. Ah! but we floated in the infinite Abyss. Joy! Joy!

White swan, bear thou ever me up between thy wings!”

---Liber LXV, Cap. II, vs. 17-25

2006-07-31T22:23:00.000-07:00

Some Favorite Quotations

Here are the first few of some of my favorite quotations I would like to share, in no particular order:

“So live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart. Trouble no one about his religion; respect others in their views, and demand that they respect yours. Love your life, perfect your life, beautify all things in your life. Seek to make your life long and of service to your people. Prepare a noble death song for the day when you go over the Great Divide. Always give a word or sign in a lonely place. Show respect to all people, but grovel to none. When you arise in the morning give thanks for the light, for your life and strength Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason for giving thanks, the fault lies in yourself. When your time comes to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way. Sing your death song, and die like a hero going home.”

-Tecumseh

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If you hate a person, you hate something in him that is part of yourself. What isn't part of ourselves doesn't disturb us.

Hermann Hesse

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A loving person lives in a loving world. A hostile person lives in a hostile world: everyone you meet is your mirror.-

--Ken Keyes, Jr

There is only one corner of the universe you can be certain of improving and that is your own self.

-Aldous Huxley

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Better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.

-Ancient Chinese Proverb

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Your work is to discover your world and then with all your heart give yourself to it.

-Buddha

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Yea, verily, let your Will to Love burn eagerly toward this creation in yourselves of the true Life that rolls its waves across the shoreless sea of Time! Live not your petty lives in fear of the hours! The Moon and Sun and Stars by which ye measure Time are themselves but servants of that Life which pulses in you, joyous drum-beat as you march triumphant through the Avenue of the Ages. Then, when each birth and death of yours are recognized in this perception as mere milestones on your ever-living Road, what of the foolish incidents of your mean lives? Are they not grains of sand blown by the desert wind, or pebbles that you spurn with your winged feet, or grassy hollows were you press the yielding and elastic turf and moss with lyrical dances? To him who lives in Life naught matters: his is eternal motion, energy, delight of never-failing Change: unwearied, you pass on from aeon to aeon, from star to star, the Universe your playground, its infinite variety of sport ever old and ever new. All those ideas which bred sorrow and fear are known in their truth, and thus become the seed of joy: for you are certain beyond all proof that you can never die; that, though you change, change is part of your own nature: the Great Enemy is become the Great Ally.

--Aleister Crowley

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There is strong shadow where there is much light.

- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

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We find comfort among those who agree with us - growth among those who don't.

-Frank A. Clark

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I will try to share some more over the next few days. I would like to hear some of your favorite quotes as well. This could be fun, feel free to leave your favorites using the comments link below.

Beauty

2006-07-18T22:20:00.000-07:00

Ahhh..., the Beauty of the written Word. My last post reminded me of the deep reverence I’ve always felt for the Logos of humanity, the poetry and prose which exemplifies the Spirit of Man. Just for fun I think I’ll dig out some of my old notebooks and use this space over the next few days to share some of my favorite quotations which have always been a great source of inspiration for me………..See you soon.

Life Lessons

2006-07-18T18:09:00.000-07:00

Chronic illness definitely forces one to be a bit more introspective. It’s a common aphorism, “that “everything happens for a reason”. I’ve often felt the need to attempt to understand what lessons the Holy Guardian Angel was trying to impart to me through this long battle with chronic illness? I’m a long way from having the definitive answers but was touched by the following quotes, which I recently found online from the beloved Ann Davies,

"Reexamine yesterday and recognize that everything that happened was a blessing beyond description. This is true whether you lost the love of your life, whether an illness left you disabled, your business failed, etc. It was a glorious experience because it was part of the process of becoming. Life is not static. It is coming through rough periods that brings you to glory and fulfillment. Without yesterday's sorrow you'd be incapable of tomorrow's joys. However, with some of us tomorrow's joys might take several incarnations to experience unless we get busy right now and make them our real tomorrows, which it is in our power to do. Remember that.

We must re-examine our reactions to yesterday, to the past, and affirm that the past has deepened the cup of our capacity to love. It gave us insight. It taught us how to walk instead of fall. It taught us how to see things we would not otherwise have seen. Therefore it was well worth it……”

Progress Has Slowed Down

2006-07-12T21:26:00.000-07:00

Still enjoying golf, though my progress seems slow at times. There have been times when I haven’t had the energy to continue regular, consistent practice due to feeling ill, which I’m sure has slowed me up some, but I can see improvement which is the main thing. It’s definitely a challenge, which is a big part; I’m sure, of why golf never gets boring. Looking forward to this weekend when my wife, my Dad, and I will take part in a golf tournament :-) It’s a “Midnight Madness” tournament which means the last nine holes will be played at night with glow in the dark golf balls, should be great fun. The tournament is held at Southridge Golf Club.

Have been a bit discouraged with the Chinese Herbal Medicine Protocol lately as it definitely is not working as well as it did the first couple of months. I have been having a couple of days a week were I simply don’t feel well at all, tired, achy, absolutely no energy. In all fairness though I have to admit until real recently I haven’t been taking the herbs real religiously due to becoming discouraged with my health again and the cost of the herbs being quite expensive and I felt I couldn’t really afford them at times. Plan on getting back on a very regular regimen of the herbs which I have done for the last week and will have my labs rechecked at the beginning of September and go from there.

Labs Rechecked

2006-05-22T19:56:00.000-07:00

Had my three month f/u labs drawn again. The elevated liver enzymes improved slightly from last time;

ALT of 181 compared to 297 in Feb. and AST of 110 compared to 105 in Feb.

Results were faxed to Dr Zhang and I’m awaiting his advice.

I did not have the Viral Count repeated at this time since my medical insurance will not pay for a repeat check of the Viral Load this soon and the $500 cost of this lab test would not change the way I feel or the prognosis in any way. Have felt a bit better than I did in Feb. Still have a day or two each week were I feel tired, run down and achy but not as severe as back in Feb. Plan on continuing current herbal protocol until I hear Dr. Zhang’s current recommendation.

Golf Lesson

2006-05-22T19:40:00.000-07:00

It is more satisfying to be a bad player at golf. The worse you play, the better you remember the occasional good shot. ~Nubar Gulbenkian, 1972

I'll shoot my age if I have to live to be 105. ~Bob Hope

My swing is so bad I look like a caveman killing his lunch. ~Lee Trevino

It took me seventeen years to get 3,000 hits. I did it in one afternoon on the golf course. ~Hank Aaron, 1971

I took my first golf lesson this past Saturday. I started hacking at the ball a little bit last summer, played a few rounds at a local 9 hole public course, all par 3’s which makes it a good beginner’s course to practice on. Of course, the golf pro on Sat. changed everything about my game, he’s trying to change my grip, my setup, and my swing, I’m sure he’d even change the way I tie my shoes if I would let him…lol..God knows I can’t argue with him since I have become increasingly frustrated as I’ve tried to teach myself to play. Without a doubt it has to be the most difficult of all things which look easy! I’m sure anyone who has tried golf for the first time would agree with me. I was definitely encouraged by this weekend’s lesson though as I went out and hit the ball better than I ever have on Sunday, though admittedly that’s still not saying too much. Played 18 holes on Sunday and scored a 100. That’s not as good as it sounds though, since we played on the aforementioned course which consists entirely of all par 3’s. I shot a 45 the first time throught the nine hole course and a 55 the second time through. Perhaps it's true what my step son always says, "9 holes of golf is fun but 18 holes is work". At any rate, my dad and I signed up for a series of 4 lessons so the plan is to take a lesson every Saturday for a month…..I can definitely see how one could become addicted to golf.

Dire Paranoia

2006-05-17T22:00:00.000-07:00

It’s the end of the world as we know it and I feel fine.

Discuss here.

The Honeymoon Continues

2006-04-29T10:51:00.000-07:00

I learned a new word today. My betrothed said it is Eternanublious ;-)

Ukulele Festival This Weekend!!!

2006-04-26T21:27:00.000-07:00

This is enough to make one want to attend the New York Uke Festival this weekend. This is a sentence I never thought I would use, this guy is a virtuoso of the ukulele!!
Seriously, check out this video clip of a version of George Harrison’s, “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”, it’s actually quite impressive…Two Thumbs Up…..

Honeymoon

2006-03-29T22:23:00.000-08:00

  I’ve been so busy of late I haven’t really had time to post here or anywhere else. The last few weeks have been awesome! On March 12th in a very moving, inspiring, heartfelt ceremony performed by Bishop Rosamonde Miller my love Linda and I were wed. Thank you Linda for always being there for me, sharing our lives together has been the happiest days of my life.
  Linda and I just returned home from Arizona this past Sunday. Watched some MLB Spring Training games at Scottsdale Stadium. We enjoyed the sun, ballpark, and hotel swimming pool, it was a great way to welcome the Spring. The highlight of our trip was however, without a doubt, the trip we took a little further north to Sedona, Arizona. The hiking we enjoyed among the massive red-rock formations was stunning in it’s beauty. Simply awe inspiring.

www.flickr.com

RegentLynx's Sedona, Arizona photoset

Led Zeppelin Legends Reuniting?

2006-03-06T16:16:00.000-08:00

First noticed this on Ross Halfin's blog, Page and Plant to reunite? I know a lot of Zeppelin fan's who don't care that much for Page and Plant's subsequent work but I really loved No Quarter: Jimmy Page & Robert Plant Unledded, Walking Into Clarksdale et al.

Viral Count Has Improved

2006-02-20T19:14:00.000-08:00

The rest of my labwork came in on the 15th. These results were more positive, interestingly enough my viral count has lowered considerably since beginning the herbal protocol. I had a viral count of 12,600,000 before beginning the Chinese Medicine protocol and the labs just received on the 15th show a viral count of 4,540,000. Began taking the Cordyceps this past Friday, so it’s too early to tell if it will help the aches and pains or not? They certainly didn’t help today, as I had another day of not feeling well. Still staying positive though, I have a lot in my life to be thankful for.

Three Month Follow Up

2006-02-11T11:20:00.000-08:00

Phone consultation with Dr. Zhang today, three month follow up consultation discussing lab results and symptoms. He reported that my liver enzymes have elevated since last checked in September. In September labs showed an AST of 61 and an ALT of 95. Labs drawn this past Tuesday, Feb. 7th show an AST of 105 and an ALT of 297. He said it was impossible to tell if this was a pattern of fluctuation which existed before we began the herbal protocal or not since only one lab sample was tested prior to commencing herbs. He wants me to retest labs again in May.
As far as my physical condition goes I reported to him that the first two months on the Chinese Medicine the results were phenomenal an almost complete disappearance of the symptoms but over the last month or so symptoms have worsened again and become more frequent. They still are no where near the level of severity they had progressed too back in September but lately I’ve frequently had days like today where I simply don’t feel well, tired, achy, malaise. He advised me to continue the protocol of HepaPro Group 1, Olivessence, and Herbsom but to discontinue HerbLipido and replace it with Cordyceps.

Feels Like Spring

2006-02-07T19:14:00.000-08:00

The weather here locally was absolutely beautiful today, a bright, sunny 70 degrees. Adding to the light hearted mood of the day is the fact that I’m feeling stronger again, after going through the recent downturn in vigour, feeling much stronger again now.

2006-02-07T19:13:00.000-08:00

This blogger's essay is spot on and I'm glad this was said, Is Suicide Redundant In Kansas?

Wedding Plans

2006-01-28T10:31:00.000-08:00

Despite a few struggles the last few months I am an extremely happy man. The date has been set, on March 12th I will marry my beloved Linda. Though words can’t truly convey my happiness the following poem by Gibran really hits home:

Love gives naught but itself and takes naught but from itself.

Love possesses not nor would it be possessed;

For love is sufficient unto love.

And think not you can direct the course of love, for love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course.

Love has no other desire but to fulfil itself.

But if you love and must needs have desires, let these be your desires:

To melt and be like a running brook that sings its melody to the night.

To know the pain of too much tenderness.

To be wounded by your own understanding of love;

And to bleed willingly and joyfully.

To wake at dawn with a winged heart and give thanks for another day of loving;

To rest at the noon hour and meditate love's ecstasy;

To return home at eventide with gratitude;

And then to sleep with a prayer for the beloved in your heart and a song of praise upon your lips.

Waiting For The Wheel To Turn

2006-01-14T22:53:00.000-08:00

I don’t know if it’s because my body has been a little run down from my recent bout with the flu or not but this last week has brought a relapse of the symptoms I’ve always associated with the Chronic Hep C, extreme fatigue, achiness, muscle cramps. It wasn’t anything to keep me from being able to work this week but still a bit depressing and frustrating. This week is the first time I’ve felt this bad, since beginning Dr Zhang’s recommended protocol. I felt really wiped out today and mainly just rested. I always resent these periods because it makes me feel as if I wasted a day off from work when I don’t have the energy to be doing anything fun or constructive but instead just lay around all day in a funk. Oh well, I’m sure the Wheel will turn and I’ll eventually be feeling better.

“Remember all ye that existence is pure joy; that all the sorrows are but as shadows; they pass & are done; but there is that which remains.”
--Liber Legis-Cap. II, v. 9

My Existence This Past Week

2006-01-08T21:16:00.000-08:00

Well, I think we've definitely established that the Modern Chinese Medicine I've been taking will not help protect against the flu virus. The last 4-5 days is the sickest I've been from the flu in a long time.....can do nothing but head back to bed now...Poor Linda :-( ...she's had to put up with me and I'm so tired and grumpy I can't even stand myself.....Thank goodness she's been here for me this week though, she has made sure and pushed plenty of fluids and provided me with what little I've had the appetite for......Thanks Hon, I love you!!!

2005-12-31T11:48:00.000-08:00

As the New Year approaches I am feeling very optimistic for the future. I am more and more convinced my decision to forego combination interferon/ribavirin therapy and instead pursue Modern Chinese Medicine was the right one for me. I continue to sustain my new found sense of well being and high energy levels since beginning Dr. Zhang's Chinese Medicine protocol. Recently I had a conversation with a nurse who happens to work in the same medical clinic as I do. Even though she underwent a successful course of interferon treatment last year she told me that if she had to do it again she would not pursue interferon treament. She said this even though she was one of the lucky ones who did acheive a negative viral response with interferon treatment. Despite this she was emphatic that she would not make the same choice again because the effects of the interferon and ribavirin were so ravaging. Why would anyone make such a statement? One factor in the decision whether or not to pursue conventional combination therapy is the consideration that one should be aware that a negative viral response after interferon treatment does not mean "total eradication" of the Hep C virus! Most of the patients after "successful" inteferon therapy will still have HCV in their liver. Relapse can, and does in some cases happen at a later time.

Please understand, I am in no way advocating just sticking one's head in the sand and ignoring their HCV infection. Rather, a comprehensive approach is needed to treat chronic viral hepatitis, including proper herbal treatment, rest, and nutrition. I do believe it's possible using Modern Chinese Medicine to halt the progression of the disease and restore general health.

Blessings to all in the New Year.

The Nativity Of The Divine Light

2005-12-24T06:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve, sometimes called Holy Night, celebrates the ageless story of the birth of Christ. As the divine light of Christ incarnates in a tiny babe in a lowly manger, to us this story represents the nativity of the divine light within the Gnostic soul, the coming of the royal light into the lowly frame and darkness of this world. When the outer world grows cold and dark it is even more necessary to keep the spark of divine light kindled and bright.

Though the light shines in the darkness, the darkness can not itself give birth to the light. The earth would be naught but cold damp clay without the life coming from the light of the Sun. Even so, the spirit which gives life comes from somewhere else, a mystical dimension beyond time and space. The alchemists assure us that “nature unaided always fails.” Without divine assistance in the Hermetic art the alchemist can not achieve the goal of the Great Work, the Philosopher’s Stone. In the same way, our human natures can not transform our ego personalities without the assistance of that spark of our Divine Self and the birth of that consciousness within us........more

Wishing you and yours all the best this Holiday Season. May the New Year bring you much Light, Love, and Health.

Happy Holidays

2005-12-18T15:47:00.000-08:00

C’mon people can’t we all just get along? This is the one of the most ridiculous things I’ve ever read, “Religious conservatives are threatening lawsuits and boycotts to insist that store clerks and advertisements say Merry Christmas”. I myself prefer “Happy Holidays”or "Seasons Greeting's". It’s much more inclusive, what’s wrong with including the Jewish Faith, Buddhists, Moslems, Pagans or any other ism’s in one’s best wishes for the Season and New Year? “Peace on earth, goodwill towards men” should be directed to all regardless of race, color or creed.

Of course, the major mistake in the Christian conservatives line of reasoning is the assumption that the Holiday Season began with Christianity. Celebration of the Winter Solstice far predates any form of Christianity.

Perhaps maybe we should all just celebrate Festivus.

Wishing everyone Happy Holiday’s as I cue up my cd player;

Artist: Jackson Browne
Album: Rarities And Duets
Title: The Rebel Jesus

Original recording from the chieftain's album "the bells of dublin"

All the streets are filled with laughter and light
And the music of the season
And the merchants' windows are all bright
With the faces of the children
And the families hurrying to their homes
As the sky darkens and freezes
They'll be gathering around the hearths and tales
Giving thanks for all god's graces
And the birth of the rebel jesus

Well they call him by the prince of peace
And they call him by the savior
And they pray to him upon the seas
And in every bold endeavor
As they fill his churches with their pride and gold
And their faith in him increases
But they've turned the nature that i worshipped in
From a temple to a robber's den

In the words of the rebel jesus

We guard our world with locks and guns
And we guard our fine possessions
And once a year when christmas comes
We give to our relations
And perhaps we give a little to the poor
If the generosity should seize us
But if any one of us should interfere
In the business of why they are poor
They get the same as the rebel jesus

But please forgive me if i seem
To take the tone of judgement
For i've no wish to come between
This day and your enjoyment
In this life of hardship and of earthly toil
We have need for anything that frees us
So i bid you pleasure
And i bid you cheer
From a heathen and a pagan
On the side of the rebel jesus.

Jimmy Page receives the OBE

2005-12-14T18:12:00.000-08:00

Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page has been honored by Queen Elizabeth II - but the award was for his work with poor Brazilian children rather than his music. Page, 61, went to Buckingham Palace on Wednesday to receive an Officer of the Order of the British Empire, or OBE.Page said he was overwhelmed to be given the accolade. He recalled how he first became involved with Brazilian children in 1994 when fighting broke out among street gangs while he was in Rio de Janeiro promoting an album. "At that time in Rio, the sun wasn't shining. The army was going into the favelas (shantytowns), and I heard about the plight of the street children," he told reporters.Page joined forces with a British charity, Task Brazil, and set up a safe house, which has supported more than 300 children. Task Brazil offers medical and psychological support, food, clothing and job training. "I think when you're faced with a plight that's inescapable, and there's something you can do about it, you hope you can make a difference," Page said.

Ready For Spring

2005-12-13T18:35:00.000-08:00

I know it’s not even Winter yet but I’m all ready for Spring. Last week I booked an itenerary online at Expedia.com for the week of March 20th to attend some San Francisco Giants Cactus League Spring Training games in Scottsdale, AZ. We’ll be there for 5 Days, 6 nights, enjoying the warm weather and the baseball rites of Spring.
Also nearby is Sedona, Az which I’ve always wanted to visit, so the plan is 3 days in Scottsdale and 2 days in Sedona which should be lovely after weathering the winter season.

Robert Plant BBC Interview

2005-12-10T17:15:00.000-08:00

Discovered this recent interview with Robert Plant in RealPlayer format provided by the BBC.
In this interview with BBC WM's Paul Franks, Black Country rock legend Robert Plant talks about living with the legacy of Led Zeppelin, writing with Jimmy Page, and how he's able to make sense of the past with his new band, The Strange Sensation.
He also describes one of his most treasured memories - his meeting with Elvis.

For All You ZepHeads Out There

2005-12-08T05:28:00.000-08:00

Kevin Shirley's blog is reporting:

"Rumors abound about a new release of the Led Zeppelin movie,The Song Remains The Same, with improved audio and video..."

Herbal Protocol Update

2005-12-07T05:10:00.000-08:00

I have been on Dr. Zhang's herbal protocol for three and a half weeks now. So far the results have far exceeded anything I had hoped for. The fatigue and achiness has all but disappeared. The first week of the protocol was life as usual, extreme fatigue and achiness 2 or 3 days that week. Since then however, I have only experienced two days of extreme fatigue and achiness. Over the last year or so I was experiencing these days 2-4 times a week. I feel human again for the first time in years. The mild problems I reported the first week of treatment, feeling jittery, extreme intestinal gas and loose stools have abated as my body has adapted to the herbal formulas .Of course it's much too early to verify any results quantitatively by lab results or liver biopsy but judging by how I feel my life has greatly improved qualitatively and I'm very optimistic for the future. Dr. Zhang has scheduled the first lab tests for three months after beginning protocol.

While cruising the world wide web this morning I found yet another example of a Dr. agreeing that the toxicity of conventional interferon treatment is unacceptable. The article can be found here but I have reproduced it below:

Benefit vs. harm of treatment of chronic hepatitis C

TO THE EDITOR: I am quite apprehensive that your article (1) on hepatitis C by Dr. Ward and colleagues will cause misconceptions for family physicians and may cause harm to our patients.

The article (1) trumpets the efficaciousness of treatment of chronic hepatitis C. However, no justification for the repeated assertion of treatment effectiveness is offered. Treatment of hepatitis C does lower viral RNA loads, but I fear there is no evidence showing that treatment prevents cirrhosis, cancer, disability, and death. In lieu of outcomes evidence, what do experts say? The authors cited the consensus statement from the National Institutes of Health, (2) which discusses only disease-oriented evidence regarding the benefit of hepatitis C treatment. My local gastroenterology colleagues have no patient-oriented outcome evidence to report either. Real patient benefit, such as reduced incidence of cancer, cirrhosis, disability, and death remains speculative and the topic of ongoing research.

Yet, we have plenty of patient-oriented outcome evidence showing how this supposedly effective treatment is toxic. In my own practice, I have several patients who have been harmed significantly by treatment for hepatitis C, with outcomes such as chronic sprue-like enteropathy, myopathy, and depression.

No patient would tolerate cancer chemotherapy without the confidence that it improved their chance for better health. Yet, we are poisoning thousands of our patients who have hepatitis with just such a situation of known harm and uncertain benefits from treatment.

I have stopped referring my patients who have hepatitis C to gastroenterologists unless they enter a research protocol to help achieve patient-oriented outcome evidence. Until we have patient-oriented evidence that rates of cirrhosis and cancer are reduced with treatment, I do not feel that clear harm and no clear outcome benefit is acceptable.

JOSHUA STEINBERG, M.D.

State University of New York Upstate College of Medicine Department of Family

Medicine 475 Irving Ave., Suite 200

Syracuse, NY 13210

REFERENCES

(1.) Ward RP, Kugelmas M, Libsch KD. Management of hepatitis C: evaluating suitability for drug therapy. Am Fam Physician 2004;69:1429-38.

(2.) NIH consensus statement on management of hepatitis C: 2002. NIH Consens State Sci Statements 2002;19:1-46.

IN REPLY: While I agree with Dr. Steinberg that the pegylated interferon and ribavirin used in the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C are difficult agents to use, I disagree with his assertion that there is no evidence for improved patient outcomes with treatment.

Treatment not only "lowers viral RNA loads," but, when successful, appears to eliminate viral RNA entirely. The published treatment response rate of approximately 50 percent is not measured at the end of treatment, but represents the percentage of patients in whom hepatitis C viral RNA continues to be undetectable six months after finishing medication. Follow-up of patients who are RNA negative at six months shows that only 5 to 10 percent of them have had a virologic relapse at five years, with virtually none of those recurrences occurring after year 4. (1)

Other studies (2,3) have shown slowing and even regression of hepatic fibrosis, and a few of the patients in these studies actually regressed from cirrhosis to an earlier stage of fibrosis. Furthermore, among patients receiving treatment, even those who failed to achieve viral elimination showed a cessation of progression of fibrosis while being treated. Among patients who already have cirrhosis at the time of treatment initiation, therapy has been shown to improve survival (risk reduction [RR], 0.54; confidence interval [CI], 0.33 to 0.89) and to reduce the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (RR, 0.65; CI, 0.43 to 0.97]). (4)

The National Institutes of Health consensus statement on the management of hepatitis C does not recommend that all patients with hepatitis C receive treatment, but rather states: "All patients with chronic hepatitis C are potential candidates for antiviral therapy. Treatment is recommended for patients with an increased risk of developing cirrhosis." (5) The decision to treat a patient with hepatitis C frequently is not an easy one and involves balancing the possibilities of cirrhosis, liver cancer, and death against the known side effects of the medications--side effects that, as Dr. Steinberg points out, occasionally may include serious toxicities. My own patient base includes those who have had substantial difficulties in tolerating pegylated interferon and ribavirin and those who have died from hepatitis C and its complications.

These medications are important advances in our ability to treat this illness, and I suspect that the data regarding their benefits are likely to continue to accumulate as longer-term outcome studies become available.

RAYMOND P. WARD, M.D., PH.D.

440 South Medical Drive Bountiful, UT 84010

REFERENCES

(1.) Veldt BJ, Saracco G, Boyer N, Camma C, Bellobuono A, Hopf U, et al. Long term clinical outcome of chronic hepatitis C patients with sustained virological response to interferon monotherapy. Gut 2004;53:1504-8.

(2.) Abergel A, Darcha C, Chevallier M, Ughetto S, Henquell C, Pol S, et al; French Multicentre Study Group. Histological response in patients treated by interferon plus ribavirin for hepatitis C virus-related severe fibrosis. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2004;16:1219-27.

(3.) Arif A, Levine RA, Sanderson SO, Bank L, Velu RP, Shah A, et al. Regression of fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C after therapy with interferon and ribavirin. Dig Dis Sci 2003;48:1425-30.

(4.) Shiratori Y, Ito Y, Yokosuka O, Imazeki F, Nakata R, Tanaka N, et al; Tokyo-Chiba Hepatitis Research Group. Antiviral therapy for cirrhotic hepatitis C: association with reduced hepatocellular carcinoma development and improved survival. Ann Intern Med 2005;142:105-14.

(5.) NIH consensus statement on management of hepatitis C: 2002. NIH Consens State Sci Statements 2002;19:1-46.

COPYRIGHT 2005 American Academy of Family Physicians
COPYRIGHT 2005 Gale Group

Voted Sacramento's Best Moroccan Restaurant

2005-11-26T12:17:00.000-08:00

Last night my Lady and I experienced some authentic, delicious Moroccan food at Marrakech Restaurant in Sacramento. The atmosphere was great, very opulent, complete with belly dancing for entertainment. The food was excellent, especially the Pastilla Classique. Highly recommended, you can check out the menu here.

2005-11-26T12:16:00.000-08:00

Marrakech Restaurant in Sacramento CA

2005-11-26T12:15:00.000-08:00

2005-11-26T12:14:00.000-08:00

2005-11-26T12:13:00.000-08:00

2005-11-26T12:12:00.000-08:00

2005-11-26T12:11:00.000-08:00

MozBackup

2005-11-25T08:37:00.000-08:00

Why anyone would continue to use Internet Explorer instead of the far superior Firefox browser is beyond me. Though I immediately fell in love with Firefox when I first used it I never liked the profile system it uses. Searching for an easy bookmark backup solution for Firefox last night I found MozBackup, truly a simple utility for creating backups of Firefox profiles.

I May Have To Revise My Opinion

2005-11-25T08:24:00.000-08:00

It’s been awhile since I gave a listen to Jonny Lang’s cd “Wander This World” which I gave a spin this morning. I’ve always said that Greg Allman is the only white guy who can authentically sing the blues. Don’t get me wrong I love the white boy blues as performed by Clapton, Page, Johnny Winter and others but they are more to be admired as blues guitarists. Even Clapton himself has said he doesn’t really consider himself a vocalist. Lang’s vocal talents are incredibly showcased on the above-mentioned cd, which though not as popular as his first couple of albums far surpasses them in range and depth. Don’t believe me, just give it a listen some time.

Hanging Out With Jimmy Page

2005-11-18T18:28:00.000-08:00

Ross Halfin’s entertaining blog had a post on November 14th on which he says, “…Go to see Jamie Cullum with Jimmy (Page) at the Albert Hall….I get Jimmy to sign my hardback copy of Hammer Of The Gods (I think it's the only copy he's ever signed). He signed it "Maleus Malificarum".….”

Cool insight into Jimmy’s subtle sense of humor here. "Malleus Maleficarum (1486) is the best known (i.e., the most infamous) of the witch-hunt manuals. Written in Latin, the Malleus was first submitted to the University of Cologne on May 9th, 1487. The title is translated as "The Hammer of Witches". Written by James Sprenger and Henry Kramer (of which little is known), the Malleus remained in use for three hundred years. It had tremendous influence in the witch trials in England and on the continent." It’s good to see that Jimmy hasn’t lost his sense of humor. He could be forgiven a bit of animosity towards the above-mentioned infamous book by Stephen Davis but it’s evident he’s able to shine the light of humor instead…cool.

First Week of Herbal Treatment

2005-11-17T06:55:00.000-08:00

Have been on Dr. Zhang's herbal protocol for 5 days now. Immediately noticed a definite stimulant effect, kind of like the feeling some antihistamines can give you. It has also increased my appetite, caused quite a bit of intestinal gas and loose stools as well. Other than that no other side effects to report. Of course, it's way too early to get any accurate idea of the efficacy of the treatment but to date; the side effects certainly are negligible.

May The Force Be With You

2005-11-13T18:40:00.000-08:00

Yoda, Gnostic Master? Check it

Consultation With Dr. Zhang

2005-11-08T20:14:00.000-08:00

Have felt better since Sat. afternoon. Managed to work yesterday and today. Consultation with Dr. Zhang today. He reviewed my labs, biopsy, CT Scan and Ultrasound results. He stated that 85% of all Hep C patients are either no progression or slow progression patients. He said that since I've had the viral infection for at least 20 years or more I was in this category and a good candidate for Chinese Medical treatment.

I ordered the herbs today, they said shipping only takes two days so I should be able to start the protocol by the end of this week. Dr Zhang wants me to follow this protocol for the next 3 months and then have labs drawn again, after which, he will consult with me again.

He prescribed four herbal products.

HepaPro Group 1
HerbLipido
HerbSom
OliveEssence

1.     HepaPro Group 1 Protocol, which consists of:

         Hepa No. 2 Forumula-Herbal Composition:
Alismatis Rhizoma Ze xie Artemisiae capillaris Herba Yin chen Atractylodes Rhizoma Bai zhu Cinnamomi Ramulus Gui zhi Citri Pericarpium Chen pi Glycyrrhizae Radix (licorice) Gan cao Magnoliae Cortex Hou pu Polyporus Zhu ling Poria (hoelen) Fu ling Schizandrae Fructus Wu wei zi Zingiberis Rhizoma (ginger) Sheng jiang
Pharmacology:
Schizandrae Fructus is the major ingredient. The pharmacological effects of its active ingredients have been studied extensively.
Animal studies have shown that alcohol extracts of the kernel of the fruit of schizandra (AEKFS) have many pharmacological activities such as:
Lowering the ALT elevation caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver damage.
Reducing CCl4-induced fat deposits in liver cells.
Reducing CCl4-induced histological damage of liver cells.
Promoting glycogen and serum protein synthesis in the liver.
Promoting regeneration after partial removal of the liver.
Increasing metabolic enzymes in the liver.
Clinical trials using capsules made from AEKFS, conducted in three hospitals in China, found that, in 107 chronic viral hepatitis cases, 73 cases' ALT levels normalized and clinical symptoms improved following treatment with Schizandrae Fructus. No serious side effects were reported.
From the fruit of schizandra, seven active liver-enzyme-lowering ingredients have been isolated. Schizandrin B and C can enhance the detoxification function of the liver and promote protein and liver glycogen synthesis. A precursor of synthesized schizandrin C can effectively normalize liver function. The effectiveness rate of schizandrins in lowering liver enzymes is around 80%. The enzyme level may rebound in about 60% of the patients a half month to six months after treatment is stopped. Clinical observation found that schizandra was better in lowering ALT than AST, and has no effect in turning HBsAg to negative.
Schizandra can improve the function of the liver cell membrane and reduce its leakage. Animal studies found that extract of schizandra can suppress the activity of ALT, but there was no effect on AST or LDH.
At the Sixth National Hepatitis Conference of China (1990), it was reported that in the carbon tetrachloride toxic model of human liver embryo cell culture, extracts of schizandra significantly reduced cell damage and kept cell membranes intact. The report concluded that schizandra can protect the liver cell membrane.
The pharmacological actions of Artemisiae capillaris Herba, Glycyrrhizae Radix, and Polyporus are discussed below in regards to other herbal formulas and single herbs.

Ligustrin Capsules-Original Herb:
Ligustrum Fructus (Ligustrum lucidum Ait)
Traditional Use:
Traditional Chinese Medicine uses ligustrum as a tonic for the liver and kidneys, principally as a treatment of symptoms associated with "yin deficiencies," such as dizziness, blurred vision, tinnitus, premature graying of hair, and low-back ache.
Chemical Composition:
Ligustrin is a highly purified extract of Ligustrum lucidum Fructus. Its major chemical component is oleanolic acid. Other components include acetyloleanolic acid, betulin, lupeol, salidroside, mannitol, oleic acid, linolenic acid, and palmitic acid.
Pharmacological Actions:
Ligustrin protects the liver from chemical and biological injuries through the following actions. · Ligustrin helpe lower the liver enzyme ALT (SGPT) level. In experimental cirrhosis studies, ligustrin inhibited degeneration and reduced necrosis of liver cells. It can increase glycogen in the liver, accelerate repair of necrosed tissue, and promote regeneration of liver cells. It can also inhibit inflammation and collagen formation. · Ligustin raises the WBC count and is used to treat leukopenia caused by radiation and chemotherapy. · In clinical trials for treating acute or chronic hepatitis, it can rapidly reduce ALT, AST, and jaundice; it has a 90% clinical cure rate for acute icterohepatitis and a 70% effectiveness rate for chronic hepatitis. · Ligustrin has immune-regulatory effects, specifically, it promotes lymphoblast cell transformation, suppresses Ts cells, increases Th cells, and promotes phagocytosis of macrophages. · Ligustrin can increase coronary blood flow. · Acute and chronic toxicity tests have shown that ligustrin has very low toxicity. After injecting dogs with 50mg/kg IV and mice with 5mg/20g IV, 24 hours of observation found no adverse reactions. After injecting rabbits with 50mg/kg IP daily for 6 to 12 weeks, no heart, liver, or kidney disorders were found.
Glycyrrhizin Capsules-Glycyrrhizin (GL) is an important herbal remedy for treating viral hepatitis, since it acts on several pathological aspects of the disease.

Original Herb:

Glycyrrhizae uralensis Fisch (licorice root)

Chemical Composition:

GL consists of triterpenes glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic acid, usually as salts of glycyrrhizic acid and ammonia, calcium, potassium, iron, or barium. The glycyrrhizin capsule we use is a potassium salt of glycyrrhizic acid.

Traditional Use:

Licorice is the most frequently used herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and has been extensively studied. TCM classifies licorice as a sweet, mild herb and uses it to supplement the body, clear "latent heat," regulate stomach functions, expectorate the lungs, and invigorate the spleen. It has been used as an antipyretic, detoxicant, and anti-inflammatory. Many TCM formulas use licorice as a corrective adjutant and harmonizing ingredient. Clinically, it is used for cough, palpitation, stomachache, peptic ulcer, phyogenic infection, and skin rashes.

Pharmacology:

GL has the following pharmacological actions that can be used in treating hepatitis C.

· Anti-viral effects: GL induces the generation of interferon-gamma in test animals and in humans. It can prolong the survival of mice following injection with hepatitis virus MHV. In rabbits, it can inhibit virus proliferation. Seventeen hospitals in China have studied the therapeutic effects of GL on 300 cases of hepatitis B. The clinical curative rate was 44% and the effectiveness rate was 77%, with 41% of the patients seeing their HBeAg serum positive status convert to negative. Treating viral hepatitis with GL can significantly shorten the disease course, accelerate recovery of liver function, normalize ALT and AST, and turn HBeAg to negative in about 40% of patients. Studies in Japan have confirmed these effects.

·

· Protecting and healing liver cells from chemical and biological injuries: GL can alleviate histological disorder due to inflammation and restore liver structure and function from damage due to carbon tetrachloride. The effects include lowering ALT (SGPT): 64% with normalized ALT following administration in a Japanese study and 87% in a study conducted in China. GL can reduce degeneration and necrosis, and recover glycogen and RNA of liver cells. Experimental hepatitis and cirrhosis studies on rats found that GL can promote the regeneration of liver cells and inhibit fibrosis. It can also reduce gamma-globulin and interstitial inflammation in the liver.

·

· Other pharmacological effects: Anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying activities are all important for its use in treating viral hepatitis. Its anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory activities resemble the activities of glucocorticoid, since GL maintains the level of active corticoid in the blood and increases endogenous corticoid by inhibiting deactivation of glucocorticoid in the liver. Further, GL promotes the regeneration of inflammatory tissue in contrast with glucocorticoid, which inhibits regeneration. GL also inhibits the release of histamine from mast cells.

Circulation P Capsule- improves blood circulation, especially microcirculation and blood rheology, thereby ensuring that improved or normalized liver function will be sustained. It promotes liver cell regeneration, suppresses fibrosis, and improves overall health.

Herbal Composition:

Safflower flower, peach kernel, dong-quai root, cnidium root, raw rehmannia root, Paeonia lactiflora PALL root, achyranthes root, Chinese thoroughwax root, Chinese licorice root and balloon-flower root.

Pharmacology:

· Circulation P Capsule improves microcirculation: this formula can noticeably ameliorate acute microcirculation disorder induced by macromolecular dextran in rats. It dilated micro-capillaries, accelerates blood flow, and opens more micro-capillary networks. As a result, it increases blood infusion to the tissues and halts the pathology caused by microcirculation disorder. It can promote phagocytosis of macrophages (Kupffer cells) in the liver. It can clear clotting factors in DIC (diffused intravenous clotting) and stop the progress of DIC. ·

·

· Circulation P Capsule does not prolong PTT or prothrombo time, though it can suppress the clustering of platelets and improve various blood rheological parameters.

·

· Circulation P Capsule. improves phagocytosis of macrophages. It can also regulate cellular and humeral immunity.

·

· Circulation P Capsule can noticeably suppress granuloma (fibrosis activities) formation.

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Traditional Application:

Circulation P Capsule is modified from the traditional TCM formulas Persica & Achyranthes Combination and Persica & Cnidium Combination. Traditionally, these formulas were used for blood stagnancy (also called blood stasis), with the typical symptoms of dark or purplish tongue, cold hands and feet, dark rings around the eyes, liver palm, spider moles, dry and itchy skin, rashes, lumps, pain, and upper abdominal discomfort.

2.     HerbLipido Capsules:

A. Herbal and Supplement Composition:
Hu Zhang (Polygoni Cuspidati Rhizoma), Huang Qin (Scutellariae Radix), Yu Jin (Radix Curcumae), Yin Chen Hao (Herba Artemisiae Scopariae), He Shou wu (Radix Polygoni Multiflori), Ze Xie (Rhizoma Alismatis), Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae alba), Pu Huang (Pollen Typhae), Shan Zha (Crataegi Fructus), Jue Ming Zi (Semen Cassiae), He Ye (Folium Nelumbins), Hong qu (Monascus purpureus Went), Tea polyphenol, and Hexanicotol.
B. Pharmacology of Main Ingredients
Hu Zhang contains polydatin, which can obviously reduce serum cholesterol in animal model experiments. Huang Qin extract can reduce cholesterol level in hyperlipidemia animals. [4]
Yin Chen Hao has lowering serum cholesterol level effects. It also dilates the coronary artery and has fibrinolytic effects. It can specifically lower the level of beta-lipoprotein and reduce arteriosclerosis. [5] The above two herbs were used in TCM to treat chronic liver inflammations.
He Shou Wu reduced cholesterol levels and arteriosclerotic lesions found in animal studies [6,7]. In intestinal tracts of rabbits, the herb reduced the absorption of cholesterol [8]. The lecithin content of the herb could prevent the accumulation of cholesterol in the liver, prevent retention of lipids in the blood stream, and penetration of lipids into the arterial endothelium, thereby reducing the arteriosclerosis [6,9]. Its anti-fibrinolytic activity can prevent arteriosclerosis [9]. When given extracts of Shan Zha to rabbits, it was found that the TG and cholesterol levels were significantly lower than the control group, and the average thickness of atheromatous plaques as well as the number of the vascular lesions were smaller and milder than those of the control group. It facilitated the clearance of cholesterol but did not prevent its absorption [10].
Pu Huang has strong anti-arteriosclerosis and serum lipids reduction effects. Animal studies found that after the hyperlipidemia animals were treated with this herb, their cholesterol and TG levels were much lower than the control group and their arteriosclerosis was much milder than the control group. The cholesterol contents of the stool samples of the treated group were much higher than the control group. It was considered that the anti-hyperlipidemia effect is based on its ability to lower cholesterol absorption from the intestine and also block re-absorption of the cholesterol and bile acid from the bile in the intestine. [11,12]
Ze Xie has been studied both in China and Japan as an anti-hyperlipidemia and fatty liver therapy. It has obvious hypocholeserolemia and anti- arteriosclerosis effects in the rabbit model. It can also reduce the TG content in the liver of rabbits, which were fed high-cholesterol foods in laboratory studies. [13,14] The same effects have been seen in rat models. [15]
Hexanicotol metabolizes in the body becomes nicotinic acid and inositol. Both have gentle and lasting blood lipid reduction actions. Nicotinic acid belongs to the vitamin B family. When used in larger doses, it has blood lipid regulatory effects. It can suppress free fatty acid release from fat tissue and affects the liver's function in absorption of free fatty acid and synthesis of triglyceride (TG). It can dramatically reduce the synthesis of very low-density lipid (VLDL) in the liver and hence reduce the level of VLDL in the blood. It can also lower the level of low-density lipid (LDL). VLDL and LDL are considered as “bad” cholesterol. Its main action is to lower the level of TG. After use, TG can usually be reduced 20 to 30% from original levels. Total cholesterol can be reduced by 10% and high-density lipid (HDL) can increase slightly because it also promotes the synthesis of prostacyclin, which can suppress the clustering of platelets and dilation of small blood vessels. These effects are beneficial for treating arteriosclerosis. Inositol can reduce the fragility of the micro-capillaries and prevent fat deposits in the liver. It can help regulate blood vessel dilation and is an anti-blood vessel spasm agent. [16]
Tea polyphenol is a strong anti-oxidant that can stabilize the product; it has also an important effect in preventing liver cell membrane damage caused by steatohepatitis.
C. Clinical Studies done in China
The herbal formulas based on above herbal contents have been used for treating coronary disease and hyperlipidemia in China. The effects are lowering the serum cholesterol level, decreasing platelet adhesion, and symptom-relief of coronary disease. The effective rate was approximately 70 to 80%. It also lowers the level of TG in the serum.  While used for coronary disease, the EKG improvement rate was 48.8%. [8,9,14] Formula contents in the above herbs have been successfully used for treating NASH. Its effects were not only seen in reducing the serum lipid levels but also demonstrated decreased the serum endotoxin and tumor necrosis factor. [18] Zexie has been used as a single herb remedy for hyperlipidemia and fatty liver, and its potency was found to be similar to Atromide-S but without the side effects. [19,20] In a study of 181 cases treated with Zixie tablet for a one to three months course, 154 of the patients showed a marked decrease of blood cholesterol and TG in 89.6% and 74.7% respectively. Cholesterol was lowered by a mean of 44.84mg and TG by 32.5mg. The efficacy of this tablet was generally similar to that of clofibrate. Patients experienced improvement of symptoms, such as dizziness, disorientating sensations in the head, and chest discomfort. [21,22]
D. Dose and Suggested use:
Every capsule contains 500mg of the extracts of the formula. Take 2 capsules three times a day.
Package: Each bottle contains 90 capsules, 15-day supply.
References
1. Li YM, About Non-alcoholic Lipoidal Liver Disease, Chin J Integra Trad & West Med, 2004, 24(1):11
2. Hu YY, To Strengthen Further Study on Treatment of Lipoidal Liver Diseases by Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chin J Integra Trad & West Med, 2004, 24(1):12
3. Ji Guang, et al., Clinical Study on Treatment of Alcoholic Liver Disease by Qinggan Huoxue Recipe, Chin J Integra Trad & West Med, 2004, 24(1):13-17
4. Qing ZF et al., Pharmaceutics Journal, 77:1303, 1957
5. Zhejiang Medical University, Second Teaching Hospital Cardiovascular Research Department, Treating Coronary Heart Diseases with Yin Chen Hao. Proceedings National Conference on Coronary Heart Diseases, Shanghai, 1979
6. Tongren Hospital of Beijing, References on medicine and health, 1963. p.1
7. Neimenggu Autonomous Region Hospital, Proceedings of the symposium on geriatrics, 1964
8. Beijing Region Coordinating Research Group on Prevention and Treatment of Coronary Diseases, Annual Research Report, 1971
9. Information Department of Hunan Institute of Medical and pharmaceutical Industry. Chinese Traditional and Herbal Drugs Communications, 1977(4):48.
10. Pharmacology, Pathology, and Combined Western and Traditional Chinese medicine Research Units, Jiangsu College of New Medicine, Compiled Information, 1975(1):16
11. Ding T et al., Experimental Atherosclerosis of Rabbits Treated with Typha Pollen, Shanghai Medical Journal, 1980, (8):53
12. Shanghai Second Medical College, Trends on the Studies of the Blood-Stimulant and Stasis-Eliminative Actions of Typha Pollen, Development in Scientific Research, Vol. 5, 1975
13. Koboyashi T., Journal of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan (Tokyo) 1960, 80(10):1460
14. Koboyashi T. Journal of Parmaceutical Society of Japan (Tokyo) 1960,80(11):1617
15. Tadakazu M. Chem Pharm Bull, 18:1347, & 1369, 1970
16. YC, Practical Manual of Medication, Chunghwa Book, Hong Kong, 2002, p.232
17. Clinical Research Dept, Hunan Institute of TCM, Hunan Information on Science and Technology, 1979 (3):5
18. Qi XH et al., Experimental Study of Chitosan with TCM compound Reducing Hepatic-Lipid in Rats, Chin J Inter Tradi & Western Med on Liver Diseases, 2003, 13(5):275-277
19. Wang LW, et al., Acdemica of Dalian Medical College, (1):40,1965
20. Zhongshan Hospital of Shanghai First Medical College, Chinese J of Medicine, (11):693, 1976
21. Wang LW et al., Acta Academiae Medicinae Dalian 1965 (1):40
22. Zhongshan Teaching Hospital of Shanghai First Medical College, National Medical J of China, 1976 (11):693

3.     HerbSom:

HerbSom Capsule is made from the extracts of an herbal formula traditionally used for improving sleep, which has been used in China for hundreds of years.
Herbal Composition:
Corydalis Yanhusao Rhizoma, Zizyphus Spinosi Semen, and Schizandrae Fructus.
Clinical Pharmacology:
The formula has been studied in teaching hospitals in China. Randomized, insomnia-drug-controlled clinical trials have shown that this formula has definite sleep-inducing effects and improves the quality of sleep as well. In a 374 patient study, improvement in sleep was found to be statistically equivalent to that of methaqualone, an insomnia drug. HerbSom formula has much less adverse reactions. It is not habit forming and has no hangover effect. The pharmacological data of these herbs show that they have many beneficial effects on the cardiovascular and neurological systems of the body. These herbs have no harmful effects on the liver. They were used in TCM for liver diseases.
4.     Olivessence Capsules:
Original Herb:
Canarium album (Lour.) Raeusch and the leaf of this plant are used.
Chemical Composition of Active Ingredients:
Oleuopein is the extract of the olive leaf, which is a phenolic compound. Its active ingredient is elenolic acid. The extract used in this capsule contains 18% oleuopein, which is for professional use and is the highest concentration available.
Pharmacology:
¨ In TCM, it is considered to have a bitter, sour taste and mild property. It is used for clearing the lungs and detoxification.
¨ Pharmacological studies found that it has powerful antibacterial, anti-viral, and antiprotozoal effects. In vitro experiments with calcium elenolate, a salt of elenolic acid, demonstrated an effect against viruses, bacteria, and protozoans. When tested with viral cultures, it suppressed the following viruses: herpes, vaccinia, peseudorabies, Newcastle, Coxsacloe A21, polio 1, 2, and 3, vesicular stomititus, Moloney Murine leukemia, influenza, and common cold.
¨ Animal experiments showed that the compound was tolerated very well, with no serious adverse reactions. Clinically, this herbal remedy has been used for HIV infections.

Need To Stay Positive

2005-11-05T21:00:00.000-08:00

Trying to stay positive though was extremely disappointed this week. I went back to work this week and felt fairly well, except for being tired at times, for the first three days. Then, come Thursday, I once again was too sick to go to work, missed Friday as well. Finally starting to feel better again today. One bright spot is my upcoming appt. to consult with Dr. Zhang this coming Tue. Then hopefully, I can start an herbal protocol which will help.

A Bit Of A Flareup Today

2005-10-25T11:33:00.000-07:00

Feeling rough again today, very achy, fatigued. Overall though I’m much better than I was during the volcanic flare up of the viral symptoms, which began about 6 weeks ago when I experienced marked RUQ abdomen pain and tenderness, nausea, vomiting as well as episodes of unexplained vertigo, which lasted for about 10 days. I still have good days and bad days but the RUQ pain and vertigo have almost all but disappeared. I received an appointment today for my first consultation with Dr. Zhang, scheduled for Tue., November 8th.

Percy Takes Stage For Hurricane Relief

2005-10-24T20:25:00.000-07:00

On October 5 at the Chicago House of Blues club Robert Plant and The Strange Sensation joined Pearl Jam for a benefit show for the victims of Hurricane Katrina - with tickets at $1000. Alongside a 45 minute opening set, Robert joined Eddie Vedder and Pearl Jam for versions of Going To California ,Little Sister, Money, Thank You and Neil Young's Rockin' In The Freeworld. Vedder and Plant also offered up a unique duet performing Led Zeppelin's Fool In The Rain - a number never ever performed live before. Videos are available online, the quality is not great, looks to be shot by a member of the audience with perhaps a cell phone camera. Going To California can be seen here and Fool in the Rain here.

Possible Alternative Treatment For Hepatitis C

2005-10-21T22:43:00.000-07:00

I have spent the last couple of days studying the book, “Healing Hepatitis C with Modern Chinese Medicine” by Qingcai Zhang, M.D. Dr. Zhang graduated from Shanghai Second Medical University in 1962, he then worked as a physician at Reijing Hospital in Shanghai, conducting clinical and research work to integrate Chinese and Western Medicine.
In 1980, he was awarded a scholarship, which supported a two-year fellowship at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. In 1984 he worked in research at the Wakai Clinic in Nagoya, Japan. A year later, he received a one-year appointment from the University of California at Davis as a professor.
Beginning in 1986, Dr. Zhang was the primary researcher at the Oriental Healing Arts Institute, where he conducted research on treating AIDS with Chinese medicine, designed herbal formulas for AIDS patients, and wrote two books on AIDS and Chinese medicine.
He started his private practice in 1990, first in Cypress, CA, and then in New York City. He is the founder of the Zhang Clinic in New York. Since 1987, his focus has been viral hepatitis, AIDS, Lyme disease, and autoimmune diseases.

Why use Chinese medicine to treat hepatitis C?
A third of all hepatitis cases worldwide are found in China. Chinese doctors treat most of the world’s hepatitis patients. A survey was done in China to compare Western and Chinese medicine for treating chronic viral hepatitis. It questioned 188 doctors. Among them, 88 were Western medicine practitioners, 80 were Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners, and 20 were like Dr. Zhang, practitioners of integrative Chinese and Western medicine. All 188 doctors agreed that Traditional Chinese Medicine and Integrative Chinese/Western Medicine produce better therapeutic results in treating chronic viral hepatitis than does Western medicine.

What are the clinical outcomes of Dr. Zhang’s protocols?
As of 2000 when he wrote this book Dr. Zhang had treated more than 600 hepatitis C patients. More than 80% have seen their conditions improve. Patients usually see their liver enzyme levels-especially ALT-improve or normalize in about two to three months. After two or three months, biopsies usually showed a reduction of inflammation. All of these things are quantifiable by Western medical lab results. All of this without the side effects produced by Western medicine’s protocol of interferon and ribavirin. Subjective symptoms, such as fatigue, achiness, nausea, and poor appetite, improve within three to four weeks.

In a newsletter written by Dr. Andrew Weil he wrote;
“Doctors in China have a great deal of experience treating hepatitis with Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Chinese studies show that their herbal regime has a much higher sustained response rate than the Western drug interferon, and has no serious side effects…”
This from an M.D. from America trained in Western Medicine.

Dr. Zhang’s book carefully spells out the protocol to be used for each patient’s set of symptoms and severity of abnormal lab results. He doesn’t ignore Western approaches; he uses Western medicine’s diagnostics (lab results, biopsies) together with Chinese medicines herbal treatments. I am willing to give this a try at this point. The only major drawback is the price of the herbs used in his protocols. The protocol I will be using to start this program will have a cost of slightly over $200.00 per month. But after my last bout of illness I now realize more than ever the truth of the old adage, you can’t put a price on your health.

More on Dr. Zhang

2005-10-20T22:25:00.000-07:00

Another interesting link;
Healing Hepatitis C with Natural Approaches

RSS Feed

2005-10-20T20:32:00.000-07:00

  As I said, this blogging thing has opened up a whole new world and I’m constantly learning as I go. For those of you who blog  and would like to add an RSS feed to your blog you should really check out FeedBurner.

  As I said this is all new to me but after exploring it I wanted to give a news aggregator a try. After reading several reviews I settled on BlogExpress. So far I really like it.  BlogExpress is so easy to use. Lockergnome praises it as "BlogExpress stands out as an invaluable tool for those getting started with RSS. "  And the price is right (free).

  By the way, this blog now has an RSS feed. Anyone wishing to subscribe can use the orange XML button on the left hand side over there, underneath “Links”.

Have felt a bit better today.

2005-10-20T16:47:00.000-07:00

  Have spent a good part of the day trying to get caught up on my school work. I’m currently taking an online college course to obtain my Radiological Technologist Fluoroscopy Permit. Have found it difficult to concentrate and study the last few weeks due to illness, thus, have fallen behind in this course work. Oh well, study, study, study.
  While searching for information online yesterday I remembered a website by Dr. Andrew Weil which I use to frequent. Dr. Weil’s books have been invaluable to me for a few years and have helped me with several different health problems. I visited his site and did a search for Hepatitis C which uncovered among other things, Looking for a Liver Cure?  One of the things he says in this article, is, I quote directly;

“I’ve known a number of patients who have reversed hepatitis C using milk thistle in conjunction with another natural remedy, Schizandra (Schisandra chinensis), the fruit of a Chinese plant. Schizandra berries, like milk thistle, are nontoxic and support healthy liver function. I usually recommend them as part of a natural treatment protocol developed by Dr. Qingcai Zhang in New York.”

  Needless to say, this definitely piqued my interest so I immediately googled Dr. Qingcai Zhang and uncovered the following book which he authored, Healing Hepatitis C with Modern Chinese Medicine.
Needless to say I immediately ordered a copy.

Rough Night

2005-10-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

Rough night last night, symptoms returned, flu like achiness, insomnia. Very tired this morning. Don't let anyone tell you that Hep C is a symptomless disease. This common misperception is a myth, as can be attested to by the posts in the following discussion;
Why Do I Keep Hearing This?

BBC NEWS | Health | Websites bolster chronically ill

2005-10-19T00:07:00.000-07:00

BBC NEWS | Health | Websites bolster chronically ill: "Websites bolster chronically ill"

JustBlogIt with a simple right-click.

2005-10-18T19:11:00.000-07:00

JustBlogIt with a simple right-click.: This blogging has opened up a whole new world to explore. Just discovered this nifty little tool;

"What is JustBlogIt? JustBlogIt is a Mozilla / Firefox extension to allow easy right-click posting to a weblog. From any website your new blog post is only a right-click away."

Book Recommendation

2005-10-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

Currently reading a book my Lady found for me several days ago;

Living with Hepatitis C: A Survivor's Guide, Third Revised Edition by Gregory T. Everson, Hedy Weinberg

I highly recommend this book, it covers many of the aspects involved in dealing with this disease in an easy to read understandable language. It answered many of my questions. If your interested check your local bookseller or I know it’s available online at Amazon.com

Helpful Links

2005-10-18T16:12:00.000-07:00

Over the last few days have discovered some very helpful resources on dealing with Hepatitis C. I have added these to the Links section to the left, under Recent Posts and Archives. I will continue to add to these links as I go along.

A Dark Lens

2005-10-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately right now my lens onto the world is a bit dark. I was diagnosed with Hepatitis C around 6-7 years ago. Have had two liver biopsies in the interim the last one almost 3 yrs ago. At that time I was told the biopsy scored a one, on a scale of one to four. Was told that since the damage was minimal it would be ok to postpone interferon treatment in the hopes of the development of other drugs that may be more tolerable and effective. This I readily agreed to since I did briefly try interferon when initially diagnosed around 1998 or 1999. I only gave the treatment about a two week trial and then discontinued it since I found I was unable to work while admininistering the interferon injections. Over the last 5 years I have experienced periods of extreme fatigue, achiness (almost feels like the flu but different) and even RUQ abdomen pain. These symptoms have increased in severity and frequency, so much so that my Doctor has taken me off work for several weeks this past month. This last bout has been so severe I am seriously now considering requesting interferon treatment. I am waiting for a referral to a hepatologist in a metropolitan area near where I live, should be seeing him in the next couple of weeks.