William's Story
Excited by the impending birth of his first child, William decided to plan for his family’s financial future. He was shocked to learn through a required health insurance blood test that he has hepatitis B and spent sleepless nights wondering how he contracted the virus and whether it was a death sentence. After wading through dense layers of information online, he went in for further tests and was reassured by a caring provider that with monitoring, dietary changes, and an active lifestyle, he could live a long life. He realized that knowing where hepatitis B came from wasn’t as important as focusing on staying healthy.
Discussion Questions and Answers:
How did William react to the news that he has hepatitis B? (He was shocked, as he had never heard of the virus. He became very fearful about what the news might mean and sought information online.)
Although seeking information about hepatitis B online can be immensely helpful, what other actions should those who are recently diagnosed take? (Follow-up testing to assess viral load and determine an appropriate approach to care)
Why does William decide that knowing how he contracted the virus is less important than embracing a healthy lifestyle? (He is reassured after talking to his doctor that he will likely live for many years. He is able to re-direct his energy towards what is happening now: his relationship with his family.)