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Sobering News
Like "cgd", I also have been struck by the bad news lately.
For some time, it seemed as if we were defying the odds with one SVR after another. But lately, the numbers seem to be catching up to the group, with one heart-breaking story after another. As someone nearing the end of treatment, this is very sobering. A reminder that no matter what we do -- at least as a group -- our odds of being cured are still only around 50-50.
I take a couple of things away from this. First, as individuals we should do everything we reasonably can to improve the odds, whether it be earlier PCR's, off-label dosing when sensible, extended treatment, more proactive use of rescue drugs, agressive treatment of sides, etc. In short, we should all work to become better Hep C consumers, working with your medical team in a real partnership.
And second, in spite of our best efforts, a certain percentage of us are going to fail to reach SVR, for reasons in many cases unknown to the medical community. It's something we all have to deal with, and especially so when making treatment decisions -- weighing the risks of the treatment drugs against the rewards (and odds) of being cured.
And lastly, those inclined should should send a prayer to everyone involved in hep c research, especially those working on some of the promising new drugs in the pipeline. 50-50 is still the best odds we've ever had -- but we still have so far to go.
My heart goes out to those who recently relapsed. My prayers for their future victory, and for the victory of those treating now or about to treat.
-- Jim
For some time, it seemed as if we were defying the odds with one SVR after another. But lately, the numbers seem to be catching up to the group, with one heart-breaking story after another. As someone nearing the end of treatment, this is very sobering. A reminder that no matter what we do -- at least as a group -- our odds of being cured are still only around 50-50.
I take a couple of things away from this. First, as individuals we should do everything we reasonably can to improve the odds, whether it be earlier PCR's, off-label dosing when sensible, extended treatment, more proactive use of rescue drugs, agressive treatment of sides, etc. In short, we should all work to become better Hep C consumers, working with your medical team in a real partnership.
And second, in spite of our best efforts, a certain percentage of us are going to fail to reach SVR, for reasons in many cases unknown to the medical community. It's something we all have to deal with, and especially so when making treatment decisions -- weighing the risks of the treatment drugs against the rewards (and odds) of being cured.
And lastly, those inclined should should send a prayer to everyone involved in hep c research, especially those working on some of the promising new drugs in the pipeline. 50-50 is still the best odds we've ever had -- but we still have so far to go.
My heart goes out to those who recently relapsed. My prayers for their future victory, and for the victory of those treating now or about to treat.
-- Jim
I look at it that I just lost a batle but I,m not going to lose the war. I hope for nothing but the best for you as you near completion and all those other people also nearing the end of tx.
Yes jim your right. Seems lately alot of sad news, As a stage 4 its been on my mind more the closer i get to my 12 week pcr. But as dodger1 said not much we can do about it. Give it our best shot and hope were in the 50% that do clear. I think from all i've read if things keep going well with these new drugs were only 3 years, maybe 4 from beating this. So for alot of people time is on their side.
I try to think the 50 50 chance is like a glass of water half full or half empty. Half full sounds better. Good luck to you my friend, i do think your odds are better then 50%
I try to think the 50 50 chance is like a glass of water half full or half empty. Half full sounds better. Good luck to you my friend, i do think your odds are better then 50%
Jim, you couldn't have said it better. There has been much sad news on PCRs and relapse, but the one thing here that will never waver is the brother and sisterhood we all share. Some how we will all get through this with the help of new drugs,etc. and the support we get from each other. If we have to move heaven and earth to get to the cure so be it. Just believe it will be found and pray for all those with HVC, the researchers, Doctors and all others involved. More important pray for the one person who is out there now and doesn't know that he or she will soon find the key to unlock the door to a cure for all.
Being a 2B with a HGB of 7.7 and not knowing what will happen next with my treatment or if I will be able to finish, I pray to God for the help and answers for all.
Beagle
Being a 2B with a HGB of 7.7 and not knowing what will happen next with my treatment or if I will be able to finish, I pray to God for the help and answers for all.
Beagle
Good morning beagel. It.s rainin here at 5.35a.m.and I can here the robins cherpin outside. How is it goin today? Shot 11 tonite ha, your almost 1/2 way there. On the procrit, thier raising it tmarrow for your hmg right? I'm sure it will come up, look how it worked for muaka.
Keep your head up. your gonna be fine.
Dyce
Keep your head up. your gonna be fine.
Dyce
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