Thanks for the info, I'll check it out

You're hilarious...I'm sure I'd need a lot of suitcases and or steamer trunks for the amount of people we all chat too...thanks for the laugh!

Hi Ruby,

If you go up top and click on Home, you'll see multiple categories there. If you drop down to the Discussions section, you'll see the Post Treatment topic. If you want to talk with the members only, about whatever, you can start a new thread in the Social Area. Our moderator Mike left some good instructions on starting new threads in the Forum Information section. If you need any help with that, let me know and I'll get you fixed up!

If you're going to pick up an extra suitcase or two for the trip, I'll be needing one of those large steamer trunks . I think size is going to be important if I'm going to fit inside!

Hi Tig

I should post on a different thread. Is there a "post treatment" thread? I'm not computer savvy lol

The tests that are up and coming have nothing to do the virus, that I am free and clear of....hmmmm in saying that yes there are continual tests,  ultra sounds, fibroscan (Sept)  etc., all of which I have no concern whatsoever :)

LOL Packing people in my suitcase LOL  Wouldn't it be great to all actually meet and put faces to the names we communicate with here....we all share so much with each other, things others simply can't understand, quite frankly I would hope no one ever would have to again. On a lighter note, looking back we find humour in some of journey and we  all know laughing is a wonderful medicine 

Have a wonderful day Everyone...little drizzly here today

Ruby

Hi Ruby,

That sounds like a great vacation (journey) you're going to embark on. I'm jealous! What a fun check mark on your bucket list. Carry a large suitcase, that way a couple of us can stow away and keep you company! When do we leave? I wish...

It's time to start a new thread in Post Treatment when you get your tests back. You graduated! With honors 

Hi Tig and Canuck

I will enjoy my trip for sure!  I went to the Netherlands for 3 months,  5 years ago and popped over the border to Germany for just a day of shopping but nothing more.  This time I am planning to see as much as I can in 6 weeks.  Several countries are  close even within driving distance so I'm hoping to travel to one of them also...hoping to go to the Czech Republic.  I'm just going to go with the flow and enjoy all of it lol especially the food lol  I will be there for my Bday  definitely am going to celebrate life while I'm there.

Tig, you definitely have us beat with weather in beautiful Florida, I've only been there once but it's a trip that I really enjoyed!  

I will share a few pics, I will documenting this trip to the max!  Live in the moment is my motto from now on.  Crossing things of the ole bucket list.

Ruby

Stay well everyone!!!

Hey Ruby,

I sure like the sound of your plans! You deserve a lovely "away".

Over here, in my neck of woods, I'm just so relieved to see the bursting blinding vibrant green of springs hope and promise.

Big sigh of relief, seemed like a LONG winter eh!

Have you been to Germany before?

Do keep us posted, on all. We will all be thinking of you too!  C.

Hi Ruth,

It sounds like you have some exciting plans and travel ahead of you. What a wonderful way to celebrate your successful battle against the beast! I would love to see the sights and sounds of Germany. Hopefully you can share a few photos and experiences with us after the trip. Have fun, but be safe in your international travels. The tensions are real...

Enjoy your summertime temperatures today! We have you beat down here in Florida. It's supposed to be 91 (33) and the humidity is already rising. Ugh... It was a fast and not as cool Winter here. It still beats shoveling snow, lol! 

Hello Everyone

It's a beautiful sunny day here in my part of Canada, hitting temps of 28c  whoohoo

I've decided to take a trip to Germany to celebrate my bright future    I know I still have somethings that need to be addressed but I've decided to take this 6 week trip and deal with all that at the end of the summer.  I'll be having some tests before I go but I will not be informed of the results until I have enjoyed my  trip and the rest of the summer....summer is my season

I do hope everyone is well and those that are on treatment, I'm in your corner cheering you on!

Blessings to all

Ruby

Hey Ruth,

I remember the joy and then the adrenalin dump. Kind of a big head rush, whew! You deserve this landmark award because you earned it! You paid your dues, Sister! I'm so glad the people in white jackets didn't find you celebrating in a totally acceptable manner, tears of joy! Let them walk a mile in our shoes. It's not easy, but so worth it

The road ahead is clear. Take advantage of this gift and make the most of your Hep free future... So bright you're gonna need shades!!

Thank you, Thank you Thank you  :)

I must admit, even though I had 3 "undetected" reports the ghost of treatment past haunted me, so when I saw those two words "not detected" for the fourth time I was not only relieved but emotional.   LOL it didn't help that I got the good news while shopping and had to get myself together and not actually start to cry.  I looked around and felt I would explode with joy! I did refrain as to not be taken away in a lovely white jacket...white doesn't look good on me lol.

Have a great weekend everyone

WOOHOO MAGOO!!!!!! 

Congratulations and thanks for sharing your most excellent achievement! You battled a formidable foe and kicked it's butt all over the battlefield. All we need to do now is pick up the pieces and have Jimmy fire up the BBQ! Smoked Dragon Wings, ummmm good!! LOL!!

There was never a doubt that you would prevail...  

Ruby,

Arguably "thee" the best day! Hell of a party anyway, and a long time coming too! Nothing like good planning tho. Ain't no better place I would rather be, than right here celebrating with you! You see, I had been brushing up on my dancing moves in anticipation of this party. It's a grand day for dancing! Well done Ruby. I am so pleased for you. Dreams really do come true.  C.

Perfect choice for dancing shoes!  Canuck I must say, you are quite talented in the dancing department lol

Thanks for dropping in and joining me for one of the best days of my life!!

In celebration, these are the dancing shoes I have chosen for your party

And here is a link showing me practicing up a few moves.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smwzk0-Nz0Q

Sorry, had to reduce the pic, size limitations when they are high def photos. 

The dragon is dead!!  I love those sweet letters  SVR!!

Tig56, Thank you for your words of encouragement!  

I must say going for this blood work is very emotional....it's humbling!I will have all blood results on Wednesday as it only takes 24 hours to receive them but it's the CONFIRMATION and knowing I will have those sweet letters  SVR!!!

I know this is not the end but I must say what is ahead seems like a cake walk compared to the past years and knowing that my name will be taken off the government info stating I am cured!!  No more red flags when my name is put in the system  whoohoo!!

Enjoy this sunny day!!

Ruth

Morning Canuck

Not to sound too sassy but I reserved a spot at Club Zero when I took my first pill of Epclusa!  lol  I simply couldn't allow myself to think any other way  :)

Thank you for your supportive and kind words

Ruth

Phoenix, I am elated with your news!!  Congrats from the bottom of my heart!!!

You did it girl!!!

Ruth

Thanks Tig. 0 is my new favorite number!

Hey! congratulations, Liz!! Your test result came in:

Ya, epclusians ARE very cool!  C.

Way cool Jimmy!

How very cool is this thread?

JimmyK

I am awake Canuck! Just posted in the corner.   

Ruby - I know that everything will come back undetected. Mine did as of yesterday.  Oh how far we have come! 

Hey Ruby!,

There you are! So glad to here from you again. Missed ya.

Can't dance, nor sing, but I am sure gunna look forward to your EOT+12 UND party!!! I will think of sumpin special to help with the celebration to come. I think it may soon be standing room only in Club Zero!

I like the sounds of the level of care you have and are and will recieve, pretty dang fine, and only in Canada you say? Whodthunkit! Glad you will get scoped, sounded and fibroscanned, all valuable things that most people seem to have to fight for! 

We are the lucky ones!

Hey, wake up all our other cured and resting epclusians will ya?  C.

Hi Ruby,

So good to hear from you! Good luck on your blood work next week. I have little doubt that you'll go through them with flying colors, nice bright, undetected numbers, lol! All of the tests that we have to go through going forward are just insurance. The risk for any problems is quite low and rare, but we have had a virulent attack on our bodies and it's simply good to make sure it stays eradicated. The damage it has done should improve in many ways, but we have to remain vigilant and keep a watchful eye on these things. It's just good, smart healthcare going forward. If we're going to live a longer life, it might as well be based on quality, not quantity!

Let us know what you find out. In the meantime, I'm going to start polishing my dancing shoes, you should too!!

Hi Everyone 

It's been quite awhile since I've been here, I hope all my fellow Epclusa warriors are doing well and it goes without saying all who are on treatment.

Next week I go for my 3 month blood test after treatment, I can't wait!!

Doctors' appointments will commence this month with an ultra sound and I believe a fibro scan in the mix.  I'm hoping and of course praying that I have not developed esophageal varices. Our bodies are such a wonder but this gal is hoping my body didn't find the need to make this change   

Ruby

***we have been enjoying springlike weather in my neck of the woods and have been for quite some time now...this is my kind of winter 

Excellent result, Ruby, congratulations!! 

Merry Christmas to you, and a happy SVR in the New Year!! 

Hi Ruby,

I'm liking the glow, too! The scope you speak of is an Endoscopy. It's an easy procedure and is one of the simplest to accomplish. Anyone with Cirrhosis needs to have that information in their toolbox of results. I'm curious, have had an abdominal ultrasound recently? I believe your Spleen size will explain a lot of the platelet situation. In time, we are seeing improvements following SVR, such as resolving inflammation and fibrosis reduction. It all takes time, but witnessing that will improve liver function, perfusion through it, resulting in less splenomegaly and an increase in platelets. Reducing Portal Hypertension is key. 

That's a beautiful Christmas message! Thanks so much  It's hard to believe another year has gone by! Merry Christmas to you and yours!!!

You glow girl!!

You also rock.

Merry xmas, and, 2017 IS gunna be a good year!  C.

Thanks everyone for sharing in my happiness.  Tig, yes I have arrived at the station...I love the pic by the way. Next stop SVR.  I have been informed I have to have a scope to check out my esophagus and upper stomach due to my platelet levels.  Our bodies are miraculous machines. In my case since my platelets cannot sufficiently travel through my liver it may have decided to simply make another blood vessel to help out however it's route is not such a great plan.  I will deal with that in the new year, for now I'm just basking in the "undetected" glow lol

Awesome news Ruby! Next stop SVR!  Merry Christmas to you as well. We have a lot to be thankful for!

Oh Ruby, I am so glad to hear this news.  It's quite different when you realize it's behind you.  You've done some very good work here and I congratulate you.  I'm sure glad you are feeling better.  That's going to come in handy!  

Hey Ruby,

WOOHOO!!! 

No more "on your way to zero", you have arrived at the Station!! Congratulations on this awesome milestone. 

What terrific news Ruby and the best way to end 2016!

Just wonderful Ruby!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm hooping it up for ya across the provinces! I am SOOOO glad for you!  C.

First I'd like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and many blessings in the brand new year that's just around the corner!

I will be celebrating my first Christmas in many many years with blood results reading UNDETECTED  

My 12 week results are in.... and reads as my week four and eight results   NOT DETECTED!! whoohoo  I am a very blessed woman!!  I have to say, I'm feeling pretty darn good!!

Those that are still on treatment, hang in there...you've got this!!

Ruby

Thanks Mike for your words of encouragement!  I do know that I will be having blood work in March and can't wait for the next 12 weeks to fly by as the past 12 did. I was told  at that time all the other tests ..fibroscan/ultra sound etc will be scheduled then as well, and further blood testing I believe every 6 months for awhile...I could be wrong on the timing of that.

Hey a huge CONGRATULATIONS  on your SVR!!

Ruby

Okay Mike, did you have your nose somewhere it shouldn't have been? How did the other guy look? Just kidding of course! Sorry to hear about that. Chuck is right, you've had waaaayyyyy more than your share of "stuff" happen over the last few years. I hope the repair leaves you smelling the roses better than ever before...  Take care my friend 

Sheesh Jed!

Whatever have you been up to? - major nose repair! I hope this was fixing an old, old nose injury and not a recent one!

I was just thinking of you today, reading about Ruby's up and coming platelets! And like magic, poof you appear!

Good you share these thing, so others know what can be handled, what we come back from, and how we improve.

You are a walking testament (among quite a few others that come to mind around here) who epitomize great comebacks! 

I am real happy to hear both you and Ruby's platelets have come up some! Good news all 'round (altho, I recall a few of your platelets were rather ovoid! hee hee).

I hope with improved platelets that equates to maybe feeling a wee bit better.  C.

Ruby Red wrote:

---

  Although I will have an appt with her next week to receive my 12 wk VL results  and my final appt with my Doc on the  19th that will be the end with them, except the fibroscan in March when I claim SVR.  Instructions will be sent to my gp for all the scheduled ultra sounds etc after that. 

After all these years it's hard to get my head around that I no longer have to say "I have hepc" and after March the big red flag won't come up if and when I have to see another doc

---

 Congratulations on finishing treatment Ruby. Don't forget you'll also need a viral load test in March so if your current doctor won't be treating you at that time I'm assuming a viral load test will be included with the instructions being sent to your GP. Be sure that if you see another doctor in the future that he/she is aware of your history because you will still test positive for the HCV antibody test but that only means that you have been exposed to the virus in the past (which you have) or chronically infected, then achieved SVR, as you'll know in March.

 I wouldn't be too concerned about your platelets. Mine got down to 50 last year about 3/4 way through my 24 week treatment but they are recovering slowly to 80 at my last test this past July. You'll bleed for a while if you cut yourself so just be aware if this. I had major broken nose surgery about a month ago and bled a lot but I made it through with no problem other than a high tissue bill Lol.

Thanks Tig....you're awesome!!

When my WBC and platelets were very low I had terrible terrible fatigue blah blah etc etc ...but that took me to a hematologist, bone marrow test,ugh!! then back to the hepc which I had decided to let it run it's course after the interferon/riba fiasco.  So GLAD I didn't :)   2016 was a bit of a medical roller coaster but I'm glad I took the ride 

Hey Ruby,

These are exciting times! You have done very well and I have admired your strength and attitude throughout your journey. Your lab values look good and those platelets aren't that bad. Low yes, but improving nicely. Not a surprise anyway. I don't know how you functioned when they dropped to half that. You've been an impressive Warrior. 

                                     You made it  

Thanks Canuck for being the loyal cheer leader!

Yes!! Completed treatment and blood work done.  I must say when my RN, Tammy,  called me on Tuesday and said "last day, your done"  it was a tad emotional. Just fact that the 12 weeks went so fast and whether I wanted to admit it or not there were days that were not that great lol  Tammy and I spoke all the niceties "pleasure working with you and I felt the very same way. Tammy offered if at any time I couldn't make an appt she would come to me!! Who gets that offered to them in today's screwed up medical system? Tammy and my Doc understood my anxiety of treatment past, you know the cruel interferon/riba and the horrendous report of the fail after all that suffering...and yes I mean suffering!  Working with someone who walked with me through this treatment and the end result the expiration stamp has now been removed. She got it!!  Although I will have an appt with her next week to receive my 12 wk VL results  and my final appt with my Doc on the  19th that will be the end with them, except the fibroscan in March when I claim SVR.  Instructions will be sent to my gp for all the scheduled ultra sounds etc after that.  

After all these years it's hard to get my head around that I no longer have to say "I have hepc" and after March the big red flag won't come up if and when I have to see another doc. I'm no longer "contaminated".....someone said that to me once and those words have never left me...UNTIL NOW!!  On part of me wanted to scream from the roof tops.  I know I don't have my SVR but I won't allow my mind to think any other way. 

I am truly thankful for being approved for the Epclusa and the unexpected  quick change from the already approved sov/dak. Hands in air with praise and a thankful heart for that and being an early responder at 4 weeks!!  I have been blessed!!

The first Canuck lol to be approved for Epclusa and now the first to finish lol ...that made me giggle.  I hope and pray others will have the same opportunity as myself to be approved for such a great warrior!

I have over the past months read others claim SVR and I have been so happy for them and of course have felt empathy for others struggling to being approved for treatment and again my heart goes to the ones who have been disappointed in diagnosis and feelings of discouragement. Prayers and encouraging words is all I have to offer.

So thank you again for all your encouragement and helpful information you have given me and others.  There are many of you, too many names to state (you know who you are) You're all a blessing...never forget that!!

FYI: Alt 37  AST 27   GGT 42   RBC 4.97  WBC 5.8  Platelets 91   Pretty Great results as far as I'm concerned.  Platelets are still low but 91 is a far cry from 49 earlier this year!  Even though my platelets are low they are a far cry from 49  which it was earlier in the year  

Forever grateful!

Ruby

Hey Ruby,

Wonderful, that last pill is done. And really wonderful, so is that virus - DONE! We're Zero club class now! Pills vapourized, virus vapourized!

I too am excited you are going for your EOT blood draw! Can't wait to hear your next und!

All us epclusians are so lucky this drug came for us when it did.

Considering all, I am so thankful you did not have to riba, in any regime, again. And very thankful the epclusa came through for you, over doing 24 weeks of sof/dac. The 12 weeks of sof/vel was just your ticket!

Glad you were the first Canuck to kill it "by prescription" too. I hope more of us Canucks will soon be able to access epclusa, first, without having to desperately search for trial drugs, or flunk other drugs first! I am grateful for many things, including your doc, who helped you get the epclusa and who nicely offered you 4, 8, 12 week VL's. Really good.

We've been partying right along with you (right from the start) because we all knew it would work and was working, but, we still get to continue to party-hardy as you get  EOT+12, EOT+24, and waaay more opportunities to savour your cure.

Do let us know how your other bloods fair - ALT/AST/BILI etc., and, whatever happened with your low-ish platelet levels?

When do you and your doc talk about/decide on your "following". When will you get another U/S and fibroscan for instance.

Looking forward to your next post about your UND!!!! C.

Hey you 2,

WOOT! Congratulations on reaching the BIG day! It's hard to believe you could both be done already. Those 12 weeks are over quicker in retrospect than they are beforehand. You both handled this like true Warriors you are, well done!

We'll be waiting for all of those sure to be exciting numbers!! 

Congrats Ruby! It was a short 12 weeks for sure! I took my last one last night. It feels pretty good. I am sure you will still be undetected. No worries there. Keep us posted on how you are feeling as the Epclusa leaves your system. It will be interesting ! Good times ahead!

Hi Everyone

Took my last pill tonight...WOW 3 months seemed to fly by.  Blood tests tomorrow,  whoohoo!!!!   Can't wait to see my EOT results in writing Of course I am expecting it to read "not detected" as the previous 2.  It still makes me giggle how excited I get to have blood drawn

I hope everyone is doing well and standing tall and strong!

Ruby