Edwin's Story
Edwin contracted hepatitis B through exposure to blood from his mother during childbirth. Even though he knew she had hepatitis B, he grew up not understanding the serious effects the virus could have on his health. In 2017, during a routine check-up, his doctor informed him that his liver was damaged and that he needed to lose weight, eat healthier, and exercise regularly to prevent cirrhosis. Resolved, Edwin changed his diet, started running, and lost 35 pounds over the following year. Now he trains for and competes in Ironman triathlons to raise awareness and funds to find a hepatitis B cure.
Discussion Questions and Answers:
How did his doctor’s concern about cirrhosis change Edwin’s life? (It made him understand how serious the consequences of hepatitis B can be, inspiring him to lose 35 pounds and train for a triathlon.)
How did Edwin’s experience growing up affect how he looks at hepatitis B? (Because hepatitis B is usually asymptompatic, Edwin and his mother were not aware of how serious the disease can be. Because he was active, strong, and healthy overall, , Edwin felt he was unstoppable.)
What is Edwin’s future goal, and why does he want to achieve it? (He wants to complete an Ironman triathlon to raise awareness of hepatitis B and prove what he can achieve while living with the virus.)