Wendy's Story
Growing up in Canada, Wendy had a typical upbringing, considered herself athletic, and was involved in many sports. When Wendy was in college, she found out she had hepatitis B and learned she got it from her mother at birth. Years later, when her mom was diagnosed with liver cancer, it was a wake-up call for Wendy—she realized the importance of educating herself about hepatitis B and committed to living a healthier lifestyle, getting regular checkups, and having her doctor actively monitor her hepatitis B.
Discussion Questions and Answers:
Why did Wendy not learn her hepatitis B status until she was in college? (Her mother may not have known her own status, or, if she did know she was infected, may not have understood the importance of having Wendy tested as a child.)
How did Wendy react to learning that she is infected with hepatitis B? (Because she was athletic and healthy, she assumes that she need not take action; her provider at the time may not have recommended follow up out of a lack of information about how to manage and treat hepatitis B.)
What advice does Wendy give, later in her story, about how people living with hepatitis B should take care of themselves? (She suggests the importance of learning all one can about the virus, being monitored regularly, and being aware that providers are sometimes not up to date about patient care for people with hepatitis B.)