Steve’s Story

English

Steve, a 71-year-old American with Chinese immigrant roots, learned he was living with hepatitis B at age 18 when the American Red Cross flagged his first blood donation. Although he had a normal childhood, he likely contracted the virus at birth or through close family contact, and for years, doctors never suspected the infection. Over time, the virus quietly affected his liver, and he has spent decades managing his health through monitoring, biopsies, and antiviral treatment while facing the ongoing risk of liver disease. His family’s experience—including the loss of a cousin to liver failure and his mother’s struggle with guilt—showed him the emotional and physical impact hepatitis B can have across generations. Today, Steve shares his story to encourage parents to vaccinate their babies at birth and to raise awareness that early protection can prevent lifelong consequences.