Life is Good!! Enter "HEP C"...

First Signs:

One day I wake up, realize that I'm 48. So I started running in October of 2011, my plan was to get into the best shape of my life by the time I was 50. I started by getting a dog and running in the morning. Everything was good, but it became apparent after a very short while that I would run into this wall of exhaustion. I pushed against it...constantly being pushed back, then the joint pain...then the rashes...ugh.

So I went to the Dr's in February or March of 2012 to find out why I couldn't handle the added pressure of running, plus I developed a rash on my wrists and legs. The bad news was that I have Chronic Hepatitis C, further testing provided the "Genotype 3", which is supposedly good news.

I accepted the Dr's advice and decided to start the Pegasus/Ribaviron therapy. I'd put off the start date for most of the summer. Told my bosses at work, my friends, and now you. So here we go...

Successful Launch:

I started my first injection on the 21st of Sept, 2012. Two days ago. I decided to do this Friday night at 9pm then taking the pills at 9am the following morning. Great plan and I thought it was going to be a breeze. The shot didn't do much too me, I felt fine... But then the pills the next morning. About 2 hours after I took the pills the wheels came off my super hero bus!!! Remember the worst flu fever you ever had? Add about one more level of discomfort to that. The good news is that I felt better as the next series of treatments went on, leading to now...a very manageable reaction. Just in 3 days I've developed a sense of balance and trust that I will be able to complete the 12 week series and keep running. Let me tell you this, taking the pills Saturday night went against every sort of self preservation I'd ever been taught. I hated that I actually took them and waited for death to come get me. What I think is happening is that the Pegasus shot is going to be the new bastard in my life for next 12 weeks.

I would like to tell you that if you work a Mon~Friday job, start on Friday night and don't plan anything for Saturday or most of Sunday. I feel confident to go to work on Monday.