#BtheVoice Video Library

The B the Voice story bank is a global effort to elevate the voices of those living with hepatitis B. It’s a compliment to the #justB storytelling campaign that focuses on the U.S. Each story is unique and is told by a person living with hepatitis B. Many of the topics covered by the storytellers include stigma, discrimination, access to healthcare and more.

Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

TJ’s story of living with hepatitis B in Nigeria

TJ discovered he had hepatitis B during a required pre-marital examination, despite having been vaccinated years earlier. Though symptom-free, the diagnosis has had a significant impact on his life, particularly in job opportunities where he faces disqualification due to his hepatitis B status. This has led to psychological distress, as the stigma and uncertainty surrounding the virus weigh heavily on him.

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

Fr Benjamin’s story of living with hepatitis B in Ghana

Father Benjamin first learned about hepatitis B through his brother's diagnosis. Concerned about his brother's chronic cough, their family arranged for testing, which revealed that both his brother and their deceased sibling had the virus. While studying in the U.S., he learned more about hepatitis B and tried to find effective treatments for his brother, who was initially receiving herbal remedies. The situation worsened over the years, leading to his brother suffering from liver cirrhosis and eventually passing away. Father Benjamin described the experience as financially and emotionally taxing, resulting in significant stress and anxiety for him and his family as they navigated the challenges of his brother's illness.

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

John’s story of living with hepatitis B in Nigeria

John discusses the lack of awareness and support for those living with hepatitis B in his home country, Nigeria. He shares his experience of discovering his diagnosis after routine blood tests and the challenges of managing the condition, including the high cost of medication. John emphasizes the importance of living a healthy lifestyle, staying consistent with checkups, and maintaining hope, drawing inspiration from others who have lived long and healthy lives with the disease.

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

Amanda’s story of living with hepatitis B in the United Kingdom

Amanda, a 67-year-old ex-teacher, discovered she had hepatitis B in December 2019 after extensive blood tests for her Crohn's disease flagged the infection. She initially had no knowledge of hepatitis B, leading her to a dark and confusing time. Amanda's experience highlights the stigma and misinformation surrounding the disease, as she struggled to understand her diagnosis amidst prevalent stereotypes.

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

Yahaya’s story of living with hepatitis B in Nigeria

Yahaya's journey with hepatitis B began unexpectedly in May 2019, when he went to donate blood for his cousin. After the blood test, he noticed the doctor's concerned expression, which led to the diagnosis of hepatitis B. At the time, Yahaya knew little about the disease, understanding only that it was viral and had two types, one being a "silent killer." This diagnosis profoundly changed his life and how he interacted with others. In March 2022, before marrying, Yahaya ensured that his wife was tested and immunized against hepatitis B. He also took steps to protect his newborn nephew by advocating for early vaccination. Although he faced challenges and skepticism from his family, Yahaya emphasized the importance of acknowledging the seriousness of hepatitis B and taking preventive measures.

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

Francis’ story of living with hepatitis B in Nigeria

Francis was just 16 years old when a hepatitis B outbreak at his school led to his diagnosis. His mother, a medical professional, reassured him that he could still live a full life if he took the necessary precautions. However, the news deeply impacted Francis, leading to a period of emotional turmoil that affected his relationships and his aspirations. Despite his passion for cake decorating, the stigma and challenges associated with his condition made it difficult for him to pursue his dreams. Over time, Francis found the strength to move forward, deciding to live life fully and not let his condition define him. He believes that whatever challenges you face should motivate you to be a blessing to others, and he encourages others to leave the stigma behind and embrace life.

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

J’s story of living with hepatitis B in Nigeria

J discovered she had hepatitis B during a routine antenatal visit while pregnant. The diagnosis was a shock, especially since she had lost two in-laws to the disease. Overwhelmed with fear for her unborn child, she was reassured by medical staff that hepatitis B was not a death sentence and that her baby could be protected through vaccination. This brought her relief, and she focused on ensuring her child’s health. For four years, J has been attending regular clinic visits, monitoring her viral load, and following medical advice. She advises others with hepatitis B to remain calm, avoid harmful substances like alcohol, and maintain regular check-ups with their doctors.

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

Philip’s story of living with hepatitis B in Uganda

Philip learned he had hepatitis B during a routine screening at work, a diagnosis that initially left him in shock and unable to sleep. Over time, through counseling and self-education, he accepted his condition. Realizing the widespread lack of awareness about hepatitis B, even among healthcare professionals, Philip took action by founding an organization aimed at educating communities and schools about the disease. His journey has been challenging, particularly in Uganda, where hepatitis B is often referred to as a "silent killer" due to the lack of knowledge and attention it receives. Philip emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes, such as diet and avoiding toxins, to manage the disease and reduce its impact.

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

Naume’s story of living with hepatitis B in Uganda

Naume discovered she had hepatitis B during an antenatal visit when routine tests were conducted. Initially shocked by the diagnosis, she received ongoing support from her doctor and family, especially her husband. Despite challenges in accessing medication due to financial constraints, Naume remains resilient. She emphasizes the importance of seeking medical advice and the vital role of family support, particularly for married couples, where one partner may be affected by hepatitis B. Naume wants others to know that with proper care and support, living with hepatitis B is manageable.

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

Susan’s story of living with hepatitis B in Taiwan

Susan found out that she had hepatitis B during her pregnancy check-up. Later, her parents and husband were all found to have either hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or both. Luckily, her parents were successfully cured of the infections, and her husband is on long-term antiviral therapy. They all have healthy liver conditions and she hope that everyone with hepatitis B (or C) can have access to treatment. Hepatitis B is the main cause of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Early treatment of hepatitis B can reduce the risk of liver diseases.

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

Abby’s story of living with hepatitis B in Uganda

Abby talks about her journey from initial symptoms to discovering she had hepatitis B. Abby discusses how the diagnosis impacted her life, the lifestyle changes she made to manage her condition, and the challenges she faced, including stigma and limitations on travel. Abby emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups and shares an encouraging message about living a normal life with proper management

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

Susan’s story of living with hepatitis B in Uganda

Susan shares her experience of being diagnosed with hepatitis B during a government testing and vaccination program. Initially, she did not fully understand the disease and took it lightly. However, a subsequent test three years later revealed that the disease persisted, which significantly impacted her. With proper medical guidance and effective medication, Susan's health improved, although the cost of treatment remains a challenge. She emphasizes that hepatitis B is not a death sentence and encourages others to stay strong, follow medical advice, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

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Michelle Liu Michelle Liu

Stanly’s story of living with hepatitis B in Taiwan

Stanly discovered he had chronic hepatitis B during a health check in vocational school, but did not pay much attention to it. Before his military service, his liver function test showed abnormal results, but he had no symptoms and remained unconcerned. It wasn't until he started working that he experienced two episodes of acute hepatitis, with symptoms like loss of appetite and jaundice. After recovering from two hospitalizations, he seemed to be fine. Over the next ten years, a company health check revealed cirrhosis and moderate fatty liver. Stanly then successfully lost weight and eliminated the fatty liver, and has continued antiviral treatment for hepatitis B to this day.

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