After I found out that I had Hep C, I informed my roomates of this news. I barely knew, at the time, what Hep C was, nevermind being able to explain it to other people. Indeed, at that time in history, not much was known about the virus, at least not publically, anyway.
I have to admit that I felt an increasing isolation from my peer group due to some comments and questions that I encountered, questions like "is it safe to share utensils with you?" I felt like I, much like Nathaniel Hawthorne's main protagonist, had a large, shameful letter 'H' on my chest, for all the world to see.
That utensil question, asked immediately after I had informed my friends of my positive status, may have been a valid question considering not much was known, in the mid-nineties, about how Hep C was spread. It was, however, ill-timed and unsympathetic.
You're much more than just a letter H. You're a wonderful friend and wife and I'm so glad that you've found your voice, get the word about this disease out.
ReplyDeleteH for hero. It takes a lot for me to look up to someone. But I have great admiration on how you have decided to live life despite the cards you have been given. I am so proud to call you a friend, and to be able to see a peak of what you have been up to
ReplyDeleteWe still have not found each other in person yet. You know I support you totally.i am going to the partners in caring conference at the forks in winnipeg this week.
ReplyDeletejammanora - good to hear from you. I didn't know that there was a partners in caring conference this week until I read your comment. I called the organizers, but it is too late for me to register. Too bad!
ReplyDeleteThank you Dawn and Cort for the encouragement !
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