Lori G.

My name is Lori Gavin and in 2009, I was diagnosed with Hepatitis C. This news hit me like a ton of bricks! Since I was already dealing with Type 1 Diabetes and had a history of autoimmune disorders such as ITP and a malignant melanoma, I knew I once again needed to seek out the best medical team that I could who would understand my unique genetic makeup. I did my own research and in 2010 I found Dr. Donald M. Jensen and his wonderful team at the University of Chicago Medicine.

I had ITP at age 17 and needed several platelet transfusions. At the time, those platelets saved my life, but little did I know that they were contaminated (Screening for Hep C back in the 70’s was not yet discovered) My doctors felt I had a “textbook case of Hepatitis C” and said that the disease can stay dormant in your body for 30-35 years. My treatment was interferon and riboviron, which was as they warned me, “very difficult!” I made it through the 36 weeks of treatment and am now “CURED of Hep C!”

I have my wonderful husband, family, friends, and medical team to thank for keeping me strong and focused on my health. A wonderful support group is a major key to your success. I wish you the best of luck – you can do it!!