#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.
Teresa’s story of living with hepatitis B in Sudan
Teresa shares her personal experience with hepatitis B, which she discovered during a mass testing in Uganda after being displaced due to the South Sudan war. She reflects on the emotional toll, including the stigma and isolation she faced from her community and family. Teresa emphasizes the importance of seeking medical advice, understanding viral loads, and speaking up about hepatitis B. She also discusses the critical need for screening pregnant women to protect newborns, particularly in South Sudan, where awareness and preventive measures are lacking.
Irinam’s story of living with hepatitis B in Nigeria
When life scientist Irianm discovered he had hepatitis B, the diagnosis shook him to his core. As someone who had spent years counseling others on viral hepatitis, he never expected to find himself on the other side. His journey from shock and confusion to hope and advocacy offers a powerful reminder that hepatitis B is treatable—and that listening to those who've lived through it can be life-changing.
Geoffery’s story of living with hepatitis B in Uganda
Geoffrey discovered he had hepatitis B during a routine medical checkup while working in a laboratory during his internship. After confirming the diagnosis with a medical director, he learned that he was born with the infection. Throughout his journey, Geoffrey faced stigma from classmates and colleagues, and spent money on ineffective treatments. With guidance from his doctors, he avoided alcohol and unnecessary medications, which helped him manage his condition without experiencing symptoms.
Alex’s story of living with hepatitis B in Taiwan
Alex found out he has hepatitis B during community screening and has continued to follow up regularly since then. Two years ago, his liver enzymes began to rise, and the doctor recommended starting medication. Alex hopes that Taiwan’s health insurance can relax the number of years of hepatitis B drug treatment and provide doctors with longer consultation time. He also suggests that patients can make more use of community internal medicine clinics for follow-up. Hepatitis B is the main cause of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Early treatment of hepatitis B can reduce the risk of liver diseases.
Will’s story of living with hepatitis B in China
Will discovered he had hepatitis B at age 15 during a routine physical examination and later learned about his condition when he failed a blood test for a job opportunity. Initially indifferent to his diagnosis, he became overwhelmed with emotions when he realized he would live with the virus for life. Hepatitis B has significantly impacted his lifestyle, forcing him to abstain from alcohol and causing feelings of inferiority and fear of stigma. Will advises others with the virus to accept their condition, undergo regular medical check-ups, and maintain a positive outlook through exercise and social interactions. He emphasizes the importance of managing one's health and staying active despite the challenges of living with hepatitis B.
PB’s story of living with hepatitis B in Nigeria
PB, a medical lab scientist, discovered she had hepatitis B in July 2019 during a testing event she helped organize to encourage others to know their status. Shocked by her positive result, PB retested to confirm the diagnosis. Since then, she has been actively promoting hepatitis B awareness, encouraging others to get tested, and even supporting those who lack the resources to seek treatment. Her advocacy is fueled by the loss of a fellow church member to the disease, which has deepened her commitment to helping others.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Rolex’s story of living with hepatitis B in Uganda
Rolex describes his life with hepatitis B in the local language spoken in Uganda. He describes how he first found out about hepatitis B and the impacts it had on his life.
Esther’s story of living with hepatitis B in Uganda
Esther describes her life with hepatitis B in the local language spoken in Uganda. She describes how she first found out about hepatitis B and the impacts it had on her life.
Yasmin’s story of living with hepatitis B in Uganda
Yasmin describes her life with hepatitis B in the local language spoken in Uganda. She describes how she first found out about hepatitis B and the impacts it had on her life.
Bridget’s story of living with hepatitis B in Uganda
Bridget describes her life with hepatitis B in the local language spoken in Uganda. She describes how she first found out about hepatitis B and the impacts it had on her life.