Home Methods The Liver VA News

Comments

There are so many possible sources that were routinely encountered it is difficult to name. The Air gun misses leaving blood dripping down the arms and the red rings from the blood of previous troops in the line, The footlocker dumping drill where everyone had the same razor and tooth brush, fingernail clippers, the routine injuries where blood was present, the boxing matches where the gloves were not washed or sterilized between matches. The years I worked in the VA hospital during college. Mine did not show up until I was in college after the service 1985-6 or thereabouts and then it was classified as an abnormal liver enzyme. I was not officially diagnosed until 1997 or so when I was having an ulcer problem.

Comments

My husband, a Vietnam Veteran found out he has Hep C about six months ago. We were refinancing our mortgage and in order to renew our mortgage life insurance they sent in a nurse to do some blood work and the next thing we knew he was being turned down because they found out he has Hep C. He has been going to the Veteran Hospital in Roanoke for over thirty years and not once did anyone tell him this. He stepped on a line mine in Vietnam in May 1970.He is 100% service connected. Why wasn't all veterans tested when Hep C was discovered? He also was exposed to Agent Orange and we have a son that has spinal bifida and other severe disabilities. He is like a four month old child and we care for him in our home. He was not compensated until about 8 years ago.They did not go back and recognize him from birth.He is 28 years old now.We unable to get any kind of housing grant or mortgage life insurance.Our hearts go out to all of you that have to deal with our goverment.They do not look out for their veterans or families.We are just a number.My husband started his Hep C treatment last week but from all I have read it not very successful.Good Luck to everyone.Please feel free to email us at bsktldybe@hotmail.com

Comments

I have a question about Hep C in veterans.Could someone email me.bsktldybe@hotmail.com

Comments

I was in the Army from 1969-1972 basic at FT DIX I've found out of my Chronic HCV after being diagnosed with Type II diabeties, after all my teeth fell out, and several Angio's in my arteries, permanent stomach damage,loss alot of my Eye sight( Diabeties? ), Heart disease. In 1998, Found out of my HCV, been on all the types of treatment for 6 years recently was taken off the RIBA pills & put on 50mcg of PEGINTRON from 150mcg, this is a maint program because I keep relapsing and the Dragon keeps coming back 10 fold after each 48 month treatments. I've been overseas twice received air injectors and since I have AB- Blood, I was involved in straight blood transfuson to needy when this type of blood wasn't available I will never be cured they keep telling me since the Treatment's aren't working I don't know what my faith is anymore. I worked in some major Army Hospitals and was exposed to Hep alot didn't know much of it then. I want to give up on the VA they have denied me so many times it broke my Heart and my families Heart. I will fight them to my end no doubt. I put my own tattoo on in 1967 and got my ass bet from my dad. I never injected drugs in my body. I was needled prick several time during my service in the Hospitals. The VA says it's all Here Say. My doctor said my Liver Biopsy ( 1999 ) showed I had Hcv for 30 years where was I 30 years ago, well I was serving my country that I'm proud?? of 30 years ago. Well help your own USA before you help others It's my Tax dollars more then yours.

Comments

Just this last week I got my decision from the regional office concerning my hep c case.They noted my claim that I had recieved my innoculation under unsanitairy conditions, but found no objective evidence.I was told that , based on known practices throughout the military, my statement lacked credibility,blood was not on personel, inductees,nor equipment(the air gun itself).Additionaly the needles were destroid after each use and shots given by the airgun method do not cause hep c. they denied my claim stating that there were no unsanitairy conditions recieving innoculations while on active duty. If anyone can help me please email me at cg8zr@yahoo.com thank you.

Comments

I f.a.L.ATTENDED BOOT AT GREAT LAKES ILL.1975 HAD THE STANDARD INOCULATIONS THE GUN,FOUND OUT ABOUT THE HEP C IN THE 90'S GET TIRED,GET LOOKED AT LIKE A THING OR A NON-HUMAN WAS A KID THEN, WHEN I WENT IN.NO DRUG USE,NOTHING. V.A. TRIED TO MANIPULATE MY HEAD WHILE ON A TON OF MEDS,HAVE BEEN TREATED LIKE GARBAGE.EXPENDABLE GARBAGE. FAMILY IS IS IN DENIAL.THINK I AM A LAZY BUM.SLEEP ,SLUGGISH,TIRED ALOT.TRIED AND TRYING TO FILE MY CLAIM.SOMETIMES I CAN'T EVEN GET OUT OF BED I FEEL SO TIRED. MESS BACK THEN.A REAL MESS.I ENLISTED ,WANTED TO SERVE MY COUNTRY.AS SO MANY OTHERS IN MY FAMILY BEFORE ME.WAY BACK TO CIVIL WAR AND BEFORE THAT FAMILY MEMBERS HAVE FOUGHT. TO ME NOW IT FEELS LIKE WE ACCIDENTLY CAME ABOARD A PIRATE SHIP.AND ARE GETTIN TOSSED TO THE SHARKS.THE KIDS NEED TO KNOW AS THEY ARE THE FIGHTERS TODAY..STAND UP ,FOR US. IT MIGHT BE YOU NEXT.WE DIDN'T KNOW..NONE OF US..STAND UP .. I SEND MY PRAYERS,TO ALL WITH HEP..WRITE ME ANYTIME..BUTCHYCOOL@EXCITE.COM

Comments

Entered service in 1974 was given usual jet injections in boot camp.went on to be soldier although I can not prove it Iam cnvinced I acquired hcv fro the jet injection!An angel I was not in the army got into my share of trouble.Was diagnosed 1/31/04 with chronic hc Dr. said I had disease for at least 20 to 40 years unfortunately Im advanced stages of liver disease (cirhosis) ptions are few no Ins. not elagable V.A. benifits do to trouble I had in military. there are veterans ot here that get even less help than others. Tring to prove that my problems are military connected would be impossible.So to you honorably dishcharged Veterans I wish you good luck in your fight butjust remember it could be worse at least you have a chance with the V.A. Ive got squat. the best of luck Gregory Wagner 849 Salek Lane Bronson Mich. 49028 gig 55 @ webtv.net welcome to get ahold of me will be checking web site any Vets with hep c Im more than happy to do what I can for you!!!!!

Comments

I was in the army from 1976 to 1982 I did boot camp in fort sill OK, I was in the artilley when I got to fort still we all had to go in and get are pills and shots that we all did not know what for we ask but they do not tell.I remeber when I was in line for my shots there was guys with blood running down there arms and some of them was past out from the shot and or the blood . after I got my shot I had a infaction in the place where I had my shot from the air gun I saw the meds there the next day but was told this was ok .I do not know that with pus comeing out of the hoe from the shot in my arm was ok as they say well I am now 45 and I have hep-c I was never in to drugs nor was I a drinker and I have been married for the last 27 years with my same lady. The army is trying to tell me that I did not get hep-c from them. I was over seas in germany for 3 years. I have now done tx for hep-c two times now once from the va in seattle. And I am still pos with hep-c and I was told by the va that I well have cirrhosis in the next 3 years I am disable now and life is shorter now. I hope the va and are gov can help as we help them back then in are time.

Comments

during my first visit to vamc philadelphia i was tested for hep c and tested pos. according to my med records i didnt have it when i went in. i was never a drug user and i also got 2 tatoos while in thiland.....now all i get is the runaround from the va. any one out their know what i can do? mike hartman us navy veteran e-mail grannypeggypa@aol.com thanks

Comments

I served in the U.S. Marines, 1976-1980, I had the jet gun in boot camp on P.I. I had a tattoo once stationed at my duty station in 1977. I do not know all the causal pathology for being contaminated. I do know it is not a easy fix problem other than providing health care to all infected. I feel better in understanding other ways I may have contracted hep-c, however as usual the gov, will be dragging it's feet to provide solutions in a fractured democracy, where so many issues need to be addressed what number is this one?

Comments

I was in boot camp at NRTC in San Deigo in 1972. I remember the air guns. I also remember the guy in front of me flinching and the blast from the gun spewed blood all over him and the gun. It was not wiped before it was used on me. Nor was it wiped at any time I was in line. I have HCV and cirrhosis. Diagnosed in 1991. Been through treatment 7 times. Still fighting it...donlyons@aol.com

Comments

I was diagnosed with hepatitis in 1992 while on ADT at Ft Leonardwood, Missouri(Feb-Mar). Leland A. Hargrove, P.O. Box 2144, Mt. Lake Park, MD 21550. I had a red rash all over most of my body. It was a very bad experience. Even worse than getting sick is the fact that I have been denied disability compensation from the VA. If you would like more details, write to me at the above address. I have no computer or FAX.

Comments

I have the proof of hepatitus. I got mine while in the service. I was on leave when the yellow jaundice landed me in the hospital. I was told some seashells I picked up on the Island of Crete had the highest rate of hep in the world at that time. Three months later I was jaundiced.I now have confirmed hepatitus c. I found out this past december. I was rushed to the hospital again. My levels are extremely high. I have no insurance, $2500 hospital debt,$350 blood test debt, and need a biopsy and heptologist intervention. I had to put it off. No money. My hepatitus was started while in the armed forces. I recieved numerous air gun injections. None were ever wiped. I had plague series and more injections.So,it's clear, my life threatening blood disease was a result of military service. my service was from 8/71 - 8/74. Army/Airborne (509) Thanks for letting air my condition. I thought I was alone in this. Now I know I am not. I will fight this to live. Thank you. Nick Sevarino e-mail Italyprimo@aol.com

Comments

do you how many people are infected with Spina bifida in 2004?

Comments

in 1974 i was stationed at malmstrom a.f.b., i developed a boil in my rectum, i went to the clinic, had it lanced and a week or two later i became deathly ill , the doctors kept taking blood samples for a week while i was in the hospital the doctors said it was a liver ailment, some years later,i tried to sale blood, but was told that i could not because of a blood disorder in 1998 the va in oklahoma city told me i had hep c , i am to see a dr. in june about treatment steve goodwin

Comments

I feel that there is a lot of ways for a man(or woman)to come in contact with hepc.In basic we all did the monkey bars and some of us had bleeding callouses from those bars.I saw the guys getting injected and never have seen the guys wipe off their guns.Some of the guys used drugs and tried drugs.Some was addicts others were curious.The American Legion that represented me in my appeal(3/25/04)found that in the military law book where there's some question of what is abuse and what is occasional use! jpcrouse@netscape.net

Comments

I believe that I contracted Hep C during inoculations with air jet guns during basic training in the US Army. I was stationed at Fort Knox Kentucky between Jan and March of 1982. I was assigned to 1st Platoon Alfa Company 13 Batallion 4th Training Brigade. If you were also in the company and since been diagnosed with Hep C please contact me KAmos36@hotmail.com Greg Ankerich

Comments

my name is steve burch iam a viet nam vet 1967-1968 usn river mobil tasks force 115 i got out of the service in 1970 went to work as a carpenter. the veterans tested me in 1997 i have hep c with cirhosis welling of the feet they tryed to treat my liver. but after 6 weeks i went off. now i find out that i have type2 diebites i think that a my medical problems are from exposer to agent orange. I rased so much hell that they gave me 100% service connected disibilty for PTSD. but i dont think that is my real problem. if i can help anyone i learn alot about claims. or if anyone has input please contact me at stevewburch@yahoo.com

Comments

since this an election year,and so many of us has been exposed in some form or fashion,why do we not march to washington to express our concerns? i'm willing if the other millions are

Comments

We are marching on DC, June 10 -12, and June 9th, members of the Hep C Movement for Awareness have appointments with Congress, giving them prewritten reports on our (hep c vet) issues and others like social security. click here for more info http://hcvets.com/forum_public/hma/disc.htm

Comments

hi I have been dianozed with hep c by the va ..no i dont do drugs..cant say when i could have contacted it or how va has been watching me every six months since they discovered it...untill seeing this post never knew how i could have contacted it...btw i did two tours in nam.68 and 70..yes i had i dont know how many air gun injections...currently have a 10%skin rash disabilty..but had to fight 10 yrs to win that little bit..appealed my case to washington and asked for a personal hearing and won only because i appeared and had an outbreak at the time..my e mail is charlescph55@aol.com

Comments

I was diagnosed as having HEP C in 1999 when I attempted to change insurance carriers. It was a result of a saliva test. Prior to that time no one ever mentioned such to me; although, I had been diagnosed with diabetes. In April 1999 I commenced the combination therapy treatment (Ribavirin and Interferon) and remained on it for 48 weeks. The results were good; however, due to the discontinuing of the treatment I relapsed. I am about six months into the state of the art treatment of Pegasys and Copegus; this treatment will continue for 52 weeks. I am certain that I contracted this disease while receiving pneumatic air gun injections at booth camp at the Lakeland Air Force Base in TX. Many soldiers were injected and bleeding. We all had to stand in line and the medic went down the line injecting each of us ~ no safety precautions were executed. I have not attempted to submit a claim with the VA; however, I am seeking the required information such that I can commence the claim process. Let’s keep the faith and pray that our government will do what is right.

Comments

hi during my second tour in nam i came down with what to this day they say they dont know what i had i was hospitalized for a week in viet nam with high fever till i recovered and was sent back to my unit..now i have the hep c antibody in my system but they say my body fought the virus and in some cases this happens ..which is good news but i'll live with the antibody forever...well i am still persuring a claim for this as who really knows what will happen with me later..anyway its my contention that i had to get this in the service as i've never did drugs or had any tranfusion that i'm aware of..thank you for your time hopes this helps any studies your doing..my email is charlescph55@aol.com

Comments

HBV DNA

Comments

My husband is a Vietnam era vet.Although he wasn't in Vietnam he did have several exposures to hepc.He is now in his 43'rd treatment of pegasus.I take care of this myself.According to my husband his exposures were during a mock attack on the base in Germany his unit was "set up" to appear wounded for the hospital staff to treat.He and others were bandaged up,covered with expired real blood on their arms ,legs,faces & chest.Also he shared razors.Required removal of an abcessed tooth which left a hole into his sinus cavity.All of this was done in much less than sterile conditions.He did acquire a tattoo on his arm.We went to the VA hospital in Montgomery Alabama.During his interview to see what his likelihood of exposure was he was asked if he had ever used IV drugs or snorted cocaine to which he said no.After he filed a claim for C&P for hepc he was denied ,because the VA said he reported that he had a tattoo,and had snorted cocaine.I was with him during that interview and he didn't say that he had snorted cocaine.I don't know how it will go after his NOD his filed.Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.Please email to kittysue529@aol.com

Comments

I too believe I contracted Hep C in this way. I'm a 39 year old female who served in the military from 1984 to 1992. When I was told that I had Hep C in 1993, I tried to think of how I contracted it. The one thing that stuck out in my mind is when I was recieving a vaccination with an jetgun and the guy in front of me arm was bleeding all I could think of was AIDS!!!!!! Not hepatitis C. I'm now in stage 3 of hepatitis C, 1 stage away from fatal. I have put my case before the VA twice and was denied now I'm trying again. The reason and trying agian the decease is starting to really effect my quality of life. I'm on medication for the third time and it's taking a serious toll on my health. I have two children that I'm the sole provider for. So, I was glad to come cross this site thank you.

Comments

My name is Bill and I was in the navy from 68 to 72. I was diagnoised with Hep C in 2001. I am collecting 100% disability benefits because I am unable to work. Does anyone know how long we're able to collect benefits? I haven't taken any treatments yet- are there any other sucessful treatments besides interferon? If you guys have any answers please e-mail me wtallon@grande.com, thanks.

Comments

how do i get help. the va on jun 17 2004, denied all. i have hep-c , psd, va stated that there is no known instance of hep c due to the air gun ., i need help steve barnes 918-465-3010, wilburton okla

Comments

My husband was drafted during the Vietnam War. He found out he had Hep C about 7 years ago. The VA allowed him a liver transplant in 1996, but the Hep C virus has almost destroyed the new liver. My concern is that our government will still not admit that the Hep C that these men contracted is SERVICE RELATED. The government also only gives most of them a measly $800/month to live off of. Plus, if the government will not admit that their condition is service related, then there is no hope for medical care for the spouses, or children that have contracted the virus from the men/women that served our country. I have found facts on the internet that show there has been an 825% increase in the Veitnam vets that are showing up at VA hospitals with Hep C over the last 4 years. I think this should be evidence enough for our government to at least admit that these vets have a SERVICE RELATED illness. I have also talked to nurses in the VA hospital. They see it all the time, and they also recognize the problem with our government denying all of the facts. I realize that it might take a very long time before our government will finally admit to something like this, but my husband is in the final stages of liver failure due to his service during the Vietnam war, and I would very much like to force our government to quit denying these facts. I am writing to you in hopes that this will help my husband, and the many other veterans that suffer from the same illness. Please feel free to contact me via email at: jharris955@charter.net.

Comments

I would also like to add that my husband kept all of his inoculation records, one of them being for Yellow Fever, which I understand contains the Hep C virus. If you need his shot records, or any other information, I would be glad to send them to you. Any help you can give me would be appreciated.

Comments

Thanks jharris, hang on to that record and make sure you filled out the survey. YF and HCV (hepatitis c) are not the exact same virus, but cousins, so is the west nile virus. Some support the theory that HCV evolved from a batch of YF vaccine gone wrong. Gotta say it's a possibility.

Comments

I am 49. I applied for life insurance and was informed in March of this year that I had Hep C. My dad was in the Air Force from 1951 through 1964. He mysterious died in the VA Hospital at Mather AFB last year. My older sister and I received the air gun shots as children. I do not know how I got HepC, but I have never used drugs, nor do I have tatoos. I feel if the servicemen could get it that way, why not the children as well? Something caused this virus to spread world-wide and in this age group. I am so sick of being looked upon as a IV drug user, or having a STD. People with HepC should not have to defend themselves and be stigmatized with as a "lower class" person because they have a disease that is being "covered up" just like AIDS originally was known only as the "gay disease" so the rest of us felt safe. It is time that we all speak out. I am a college educated female who worked hard all my life and now I get to be treated just like a "leper" because I was infected in some unknown way.

Comments

Note from Tricia: You said a mount full there and I couldn't agree more. You bet we could have contracted this virus from childhood vaccines.

HCV is currently being placed under the CDC Hepatitis C strategic plan. This calls for the merge of HCV with STD and HIV. The CDC can't prove HCV is transmitted by sex and say the risk for a monogamous relationship is small, and don't recommend protection.

But, the CDC did prove HCV can transmit by STDs. We call it transmission by viral proxy and it scares the hell out of us as to what other viruses may also transmit HCV. Instead of addressing the real issues, the CDC has declared HCV an STD and now AIDS will control our treatment and prevention. The reason given to us was the infrastructure is in place.

This year HCV surpassed AIDS deaths and now, most with HIV are dying because of HCV. Patients with HIV co infections, have a 1 in 5 chance of developing diabetes, patients with just HCV have a 1 in 10. But the plan implemented by the CDC will not inform general practitioners to tests diabetics for HCV. At least 500,000 diabetes are HCV + and will be ignored, as will other disease conditions. Talk about getting screwed again.

What can you do? Call your Reps and object! Ask for the studies that show HCV is an STD. Ask what transmission risks were included in the questionnaire. You will see most methods were excluded. You will also see the CDC states there needs to be more research. This make the merge even more insane.

Comments

Hello. My husband was in Vietnam 1st Cav sniper for the U.S. Army 1970-71 untill he was wounded and almost lost his arm. They wonted to remove it then, but he said no. He was flown to Japan and again they tried to take his arm. He refused and they shipped him to Fort Benning GA where a retired Army Dr. was able to repair the damage somewhat. He is 20 % disabled from this. He was given blood in Vietnam, Japan and the U.S. He was home from Vietnam for three months and was hospitalized for three weeks because his kidneys shut down. One month later he had a tumor removed from his right breast. He also was hospitalized for acute peptic ulcer disease with a ulcer crater in the duodenal bulb in 1972. We found out in 1992 that he has Hepatitis C. The biopsy said he has had this for 30 years also. John also has had a heart attack and serious nerve problems . He has been treated for nerve problems, skin problems and ulcers since 1970 sense his return from Vietnam. His doctor in Alabama in 1971 said he had the insides of and 80 year old man. I wonder if the agent orange they threw out in Vietnam destroyed the men's bodies. I was amazed at how well the photos of my husband's before and after pictures of the jungle turned out. One day the background was green and lush, the next day, dry sticks and dead grass. They say the men in tne Gulf War who fought the saudies had something called P.T.S.D. I wonder if this is what the men of Vietnam have had all these years. I get so sad at how they treat my husband at the V.A. hospitals. John had attempted recently to go for a third appointment and was told the Dr.in primary care wasn't in. I was so mad and insisted they see him because he was out of his medicine. He got to go to something called a day clinic. The lady said once we were in the system this problem would not happen again. I asked her just how long does it take to get in the system. His next appointment was yesterday and the Dr. was not told he had appointments that day so he was not at the hospital. This doctor was called and came right on over to the V.A. to see my husband and others anyway. This is a first for us and were very happy that this Dr. cared enough to come. John has been going to this V.A. hospital in Birmingham ,Alabama for 30 years. The men from Vietnam are not drug addicts, drunks, or wife beaters. Most of them are well respected family men. They are hard working men who disserve respect and honor for serving the United States. My husband was lucky because he has a good mind and job that allowed him to work up untill now. His physical condition would not have let him do manual labor all these years. So for this we thank God. I reliaze the Vietnam War was not popular at the time. These men went because they had to. I only wish my husband had of gone to Canada now. At least he would have had a healthy life and lived to be 85 years or so. Death at 52 years is not pleasant to think about and it doesn't look like his future will go any further. We have tried to get help from the V.A. because my husband has been so sick all these years. The newsiest claim has been since Feb. 1992. Almost one year has passed. I just pray he will still be alive before our government decides he can get help. God Bless all you Vietnam Vets. who served so faithfully for the citizens of the United States and South Vietnam. JohnRobAlford@aol.com A wife of a Vietnam Veteran and proud to be a part of his life

Comments

I went to Paris Island and then Twenty-nine Palms in 9/83 and received the jet gun immunizations. I fell quite ill. Then I went home with much less energy. And, rumor was "hepatitis", was going around, although I didn't know how. Went to my doc in the late 80's he said I had non-a, non-b hepatitis antibodies, but not the active disease. A couple of tests in 2000, 2002 said the same thing. I've ALWAYS believed I got it from the air gun! I never engaged activities associated with getting hepC, and I had never been so ill and tired as I was when I became ill at 29 Palms. I'm always so tired (compared to my friends that are my age) and some days, weeks are worse than others. I wonder what will happen in the future. Does anyone know if I have any recouse if I become seriously ill since I was a reservist? Know what the chances are of becoming seriously ill in the future from having antibodies? My doc said having antibodies meant I'd been exposed to it, didn't have the disease and was fine. But, I hear you can get cancer or cirrohsis 10, 15, or 20 years later - or, at least your chances go way up to get those things. What is the truth on this? Damn the gov't anyways. They've always used military folks for guinea pigs. P*sses me off... Any suggestions, advice, etc? Feel free to contact me. thanks, frances@blueneptune.com - 1/18/03

Comments

I enlisted in the Army National Guard Dec 13th 1977. I attended Basic training at Ft Leonard Wood MO from May 10th to July 1st 1978. We received numerous pneumatic inoculations. Blood was flowing freely and I did not see any of the air guns even wiped with a rag. I also recall being instructed to slap and massage the injection areas to prevent muscles fro tightening up. Of course this resulted in the usual horseplay with recruits slapping and punching each others arms, ensuring that the blood was well distributed. In 1989 My Doctor ordered an ultrasound and liver biopsy due to pain and inflamation of my liver. The ultrasound was declared unremarkable and I received a call from the doctor who was scheduled to perform the biopsy. He stated that I tested positive for hepatitis and could not be biopsied until this had cleared up??????? By this time the swelling and pain had subsided and I was told not to worry about it. Four years later I donated blood to the Red Cross and received a letter stating that I tested positive for hepatitis B and C: do not donate blood or organs. Having no idea what HBV and HCV were I went to my Doctor (not the previous one). He had more tests performed and I was informed that I carried antigens for HBV and HCV. Again I was advised: "don't worry about it". I informed my Flight Surgeons in the National Guard and it was noted in my medical records. Feburary 2000 I was Deployed to Bosnia (SFOR 7)and the only thing questioned durring medical screening was if I needed a HBV vaccination. It was decided to be uneccessary since I carried the antigen. After switching health insurance in October 2001 I had a baseline physical performed. I informed the doctor of my hepatitis history and he scheduled the appropriate lab work. When the results were returned I was informed by my doctor "now you can worry"!!! I had another ultrasound performed which showed slight damage. I am currently on a monitoring program and I am now considering treatment as my symtoms are growing progressivly worse. I am still a member of the Army National Guard and have been a full time DoD Technician since January 19th 1990. I had suspicions about the air guns and thought I would have to start from square one to prove them as a possible source of infection. It is a great relief to find that his has already been accomplishe. Thank You, Ricky Coursey

Comments

22 year old daughter of Vet. I have Fibromyalgia, diagnosed at age 16. Dad also has Hep C. What's with the hidden lungworm? Is there any link?

Comments

I have already entered the information about my husband, that has HCV, but I just had to write to say how excited I was to see that our government finally admitted a service related connection, for vets that served during the Vietnam era. Great job!!!!

Comments

At the same time vets were being sent to vietnam they were also being sent to korea. when my husband was drafted part of the guys went to vietnam and part to korea. they were sent thru the same induction procedures, like the injection gun, etc. my husband has acute hept c and in talking to the veterans administrator in burke county, nc. so do a lot of other that were in korea during the same time frame of the early vietnam war. i think it is discremation not to give the korea vets 100% rating along with the vietnam vets. ms. carl page

Comments

From Tricia: All veterans from all wars should be entitled to service connection for HCV. Vietnam was the peak for the spread of this virus and why we focus on it. Until we get the CDC to state that veterans/active military and dependents are more at risk because of military service, HCV will be denied as a service related risk for all wars. The CDC states "no association with military service or exposures resulting from medical, surgical, or dental procedures, tattooing, acupuncture, ear piercing, or foreign travel. If transmission from such exposures does occur, the frequency might be too low to detect." Despite the VA study proving we are 500% more likely to be infected than the general public, they still deny us based on the CDC statement.

Comments

Went to basic 30 sept.71,Ft.Knox, was hit with the jet guns, down the line as others I'm sure, I've tested pos.for Hep.c,geno.type >1a< also to find out also pos for b.,haven,t filed for it yet, becauce iam still have 5 other claims in apeal,PTSD,Both KNEES,Spine Dengenation,ulcers,migane headacks,an other-nerve cond., thats been troble for over 30 years, where does it all stop after basic went Ft. Polk., Then to canel zone,hAD MORE SHOTS an also dental work, Still fighting for my life every sence I had been in an out of service!!I hope this helps my service brothers, it sure hasn't done anything for me yet!!!>mac54@dnet.net< Michael McDonald

Comments

My wife joined the military with HEP C, not knowlingly, but she was aware that something was not quite right. She was 16 when she had what she now knows as fatigue syndrone and several bouts with adominal pains. She served 10 years in the military and separated once we got married....2 months before I retired. From what I can gather I have had HEP C since I met her for now 10 years. With my heavy drinking, the HEPC destroyed my liver. I am now waiting for a liver transplant. My thing is that while my wife was in the military and hospitalized twice (1 week stays), the doctors told her that they don't know what she has and that they have never seen anything like this before. After looking back at her medical records I see that when she outprocessed from the hospital they wrote down E-Coli bacteria. No one discussed this with her. The military, if they checked...if they would have explored her case a little further...I would not have the disease. The MILITARY is a safe-harbor for people with disease. They don't care how much she spreads the disease. I wonder if color and race has a factor.

Comments

My husband, who served in the airforce in Viet Nam died in November 2002 at the age of 54 from Hepatitis C. His liver and kidneys failed. I didn't know him during the years he served in Viet Nam but I do remember him talking about sitting on a hill and watching at they sprayed the area around him and the other personnel with Agent Orange and this happened quite frequently. I do not know if he received the airgun injections. I will never no for sure if this was service related though I believe it was. He was not a drug user but had blood transfusions from an auto accident while stationed in Germany. He was medically discharged with a 60% disability I recently have filed claims for any benefits and doubt I will receive anything as I work and make a minimum income and cannot prove his death was service related. Judy Greenwald widow of Sargent James K. Greenwald God Bless all who have served and are currently serving! jgreen1173@aol.com

Comments

From Tricia: You need to get copies of his medical records Judy. Most vets with HCV that had blood transfusions are automatically service connected. Try to get that SC to 100% especially since he has died. My deepest sympathy for your loss. May God give you strength to hold them accountable.

Comments

To whom it may concern; I'm a 37 yr old DAV. I have had many surgerys do to the injuries accured during my time servred in the USMC. I had many follow up surgeries with the VA hospitals. One which I would call a botched job. I went in the St. Louis VA hospital out paticent ward to have two 2cm cork screw s removed from my left tibia. The srews attached a gortex graft. While the removal of the srews the Gortex graft came apart. A 30 min proceedure turned into a 4 hour operation with two other operation folloe ups to remove the dabre. I don't now what actually happen duing these prodeedures but I do knoe I was ex pose to all types of blood. I ened up with a "Steral Infection" six month later I came of the heart cathider and antibiotics. I also was expose to the " air injection guns" I remember being scliced open by the gun and the medic at the time didn't use anything to treat the cut except for a blood stain cloth that was at his reach. I have never used drugs. I feel I got the Hepatitis C from the guns that were used on me during the time served or from the VA hospital.There is nothing in my past that would otherwise say I contracted the desease. Thank You very Much Eraxpar@yahoo.com

Comments

i am a honorlbly discharged vet who served in the us navy from jully1977 to july 1981 i belive i was exposed to the hep c virus through injections jet injections during my time in the military,i am currently diganosed w chirross and cronic hepititis

Comments

The VA has ignored my claims. I can substanciate symptoms that started during boot camp and progressed to extreme sleep disorders during AIT. It became so severe I was repremanded and punished for falling to sleep during normal daytime hours under all circumstances. According to what I understand if I were in all groups of RISK and one or more of them were instanciated during the service according to military law 'if there is any doubt' the VA is supposed to rule in the veterans favor. This is not so even if the symptoms were there the recognition of the disease did not come about for another 20 years. I witnessed the reuse of a syringe for the innoculation of 10 recruits, I was number 10. The same practice was used in the Navy and my brother remembers asking the technician what was in the syringe, bicylin(sp) 25cc syringes, 2cc to each recruit, .5cc into the air to clear the syringe. It happened to me in 1968 'ARMY' and to my brother in 1972 'NAVY'. I have been the unlucky one. I also remember recruits in front of me bleeding profusely during air gun innoculations. The tech told me to remain extremely still if I did not want the same thing to happen to me. The blood still being on the air gun. I had multiple teeth pulled under gas during boot camp, ordered to shave with 1 razor that was passed around to the entire platoon during training in the field 'bivwac' The least they could do is acknowledge that the risk was there but like others I never went to Vietnam so was not considered a REAL soldier. But I do have a REAL disease.

Comments

I STARTED OUT IN FT DIX WERE I RECIEVED THE SHOT WITH THE AIR GUN I WAS SICK FOR MANY DAYS AFTER WARDS. THEY TOLD ME IT WAS NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT. I SEE NOW THAT I HAVE PLENTY TO WORRY ABOUT BECAUSE WHEN I WAS DISCHARGED IN 1968 THEY SOME HOW MANAGED TO LOSE MY RECORDS AND THEY HAVE NEVER FOUND THEM. THE VA HOSPITAL GIVES ALL THE PAIN PILLS I WANT BUT NO COMPEMSATION, I WONDER IF THEY JUST LOST THEM BECAUSE OF WHAT MIGHT BE FOUND OUT KOWWEREMAN222@YAHOO.COM

Comments

Well thats so good to hear, for I know that is how I got infected, but I said that I couldn't prove it, but now I see that there is hope. thanks Danny

Comments

My name is Frank. I served in the Navy from 1975 until 1979. Boot camp was at Great Lakes Naval Station. I had recieved about 3 or 4 root canals while in the Navy, plus those air gun injections. I remember people in front and behind me bleeding from these air guns. I also remember the barbers with the straight edge razors. I also served on a west coast based cruiser & received all those dreadfull shots when going to southeast Asia. I also did a short stint at the Brooklyn Navy Yard while awaiting discharge. I worked for the master at arms, and I was directed to rid the base of all the stray dogs because the C.O.'s wife & kid were almost attacked by the stray dogs. I was given a tranqulizer dart gun, and we would drive around the base knocking the dogs out & putting them off the base. I was also stuck with those needles a few times. I always wondered how I got Hep-C (type 1A) & B but now, after finding this site, I know. My symptoms first appeared in 1996 as some serious fatigue, and then it became syncope(passing out). Unfortunatley for me I was driving during an episode of syncope! I hit a train trestle of an elevated train in NYC at 50MPH which left me totally & permanently disabled. Then my nightmare began. I did not find out about the Hep-C until 1998, two years later. NYU medical center seemed to have missed HEP-C even thought my AST/ALT levels were abnormal! Everyone missed the HEP-C! All doctors missed the HEP-C prior to my accident! I have every blood test & those ALT/AST numbers just stick out like a sore thumb! My company "Forbes Inc" where I earned $108,000.00 a year tried to fire me, because, all of a sudden I was doing a terrible job! Once I hired an attorney, the tone of their nasty letters changed. This is one of our blue bloods who wanted to run for President of our country. He does not give a damn for one employee, imagine the care he would have for an entire nation. Or sick veterans! I have their ass in court now. In 1998 "CNA" my long term disabililty carrier with Forbes hired an "Independent Medical Examiner" Dr. Andreas Neophytides of NYU(a true medical slut) who said there was nothing wrong with me from the accident. They paid him $1100.00 for a 5 minute "exam" to boot me off their coverage. I guess those rents on Central Park West are quite expensive! He stated that HEP-C, while it has no adverse effects on the human body, was caused by heavy drinking or illicit I.V. drug use. News to me. I was not an alcoholic nor did I ever drugs! What tops it off is he stuck a dirty safety pin in my penis as a neurological test! He asked me if I ever wet the bed, I said yes when I was 4 years old I remember doing it once. He also stated that I was a chronice bed wetter too! I reported the creep to the OPMC. I also have the insurance company's ass going to court now! I could not believe while trying to just stay alive, I had to also defend my honor. After findiong out about my HEP-C I tried the Ribavirin/Interferon treatment from 1998-1999 for six months. No good. My hepatologist said I was also totally & permanently disabled from the HEP-C, because of the drastic effects it has on me. I have been awarded social security but that's not much to survive on. I came across this site totally by accident, I never knew this existed until last week(March2003)! I wonder if anyone has made any progress getting compensation for this. The Disabled American Veterans are helping me, but I was wondering if anyone has seen any results from the government. Other than the government giving all our hard earned money away to foreigners! contact Frank at" trikdacy@optonline.net

Comments

Dear fellow veterans: My name is Bill Tabor, I had served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam era. Following a right knee replacement in July of 2000 ( Service Connected ), I was informed by the PA Dept. of Health that I had tested positive for the Hepatitis C virus. Shocked by the news, I began to wonder how this could happen to me, as I have never used illegal drugs, or had inserted needles in to my body, I never had a blood transfusion, and was always cautious of my lifestyle. After pondering on how I had contracted this disease, I can only come to one conclusion, and it dates back to when I entered the armed forces, and being vaccinated with the "Air Gun" at the "AFEES" station in Pittsburgh, PA, in 1972. I can recall as if it were yesterday, looking to my left, and seeing blood and body fluids running down the arms of many recruits like me, as the medical technician went from one person to the next, and tightly pressing the air gun against the arms of many without cleaning the tip of injector as this repititious activity continued. Back then, I was very young as most of us were, and didn't give much thought to what this unsanitary practice might someday bring to our lives, a terrible illness such as many have come to know ( Hepatitis ). Although arguments have been made by the government, that the usage of the air gun was safe, recent testing and conclusions by credible medical sources indicate other, as a certain percentage of blood/ body fluid can be transmitted from one person to the next by using these air guns as a means to mass vaccinate military personnel. Similar to the Agent Orange argument, where the government has finally given the veteran the benefit of the doubt regarding treatment/ award for said condition, and based on "Exposure" to chemical, those of us who can attest to similar experiences that I have spoke of in regard to being injected by the air gum while in the military, should also be given the benefit of the doubt concerning the illness that many of us have contracted by means of the air gun, and based on our being "Exposed", and by no fault of our own. Yes, it's true, the government can argue the point, that they are not responsible for the Hepatitis virus, or the creation of. However, and in my opinion, they are responsible/ guilty for "Exposing" many vets to this virus, by means of unsanitary procedures and unsafe practice, and resulting in the spread of this virus. In order to win this battle, it is my hope, that all my brothers and sisters who have served in the military, and can attest to the conditions that I have noted, and suffer from this disease, will come forward and tell what you know, as it will take a combined effort to win this fight and be recognized ! Soon, I will challenge the government on this issue, as I intend to file a claim with the Dept. of Veteran's Affairs and present my argument to them. I don't think anything will be easily decided, but, I intend to present them with a strong argument and good fight, and my fight will be your fight also, and I will keep you informed on the status of claim, actions taken, etc. Godbless all, take care and be well.

Comments

On April 10, 2001, I was admitted to the University of Maryland Hospital after discovery of multiple aneurysms to the brain. Before surgery, I was tested for potential blood trasnfussion and the records show the VA tested for Hepatitis but not all the tests. On May 5, 2001, I was discharged from University of Maryland and on 19 June a liver test was conducted which showed that I had Hepatitis B Core. Not until February 19, 2002, did I become aware that I had Hep B and to date, nobody can tell me how this happened. I was also diagnosed with Fibromuscular Dysplasia, a vascular disease that is accepted in Australia as a service connected disease. I am currently under evaluation for service connected at the RO in Baltimore for Fibromuscular Dysplasia, but not Hep B, I did not know of the service connection. I was in service on March 1977 and was a 902X0 (Medic) until discharge from active duty and active reserves on Feb 1986. Please let me know what I should do. Celeste ccdquarcini@aol.com

Comments

My husband was diagnosed with Hep C. He has cirrohis and is on the list for a liver transplant. He was not in the military but he too received vacinations by an airgun. Is there anyway to link the airgun and all these people in their 40s and 50s who now have Hep C? Judi mmttrains@aol.com

Comments

From Tricia:  Sorry to say when the Pharmaceuticals realized how wide spread AIDS and HBV were, they rushed right out and made a new law. The law say's you must report vaccine injury within three years, I believe that's the time limit. Needless to say, it took 20 years before we even knew we were sick. They covered their tracks well.

But, if Veterans are service connected, it will becomes a whole new ball game for everyone that ever received vaccinations through schools and public health and military settings and can prove it.

This is the last avenue to hold our system accountable for all the lives ruined, by a disease that could have been prevented. It might be different if the government representative and employees didn't know how contaminated everything was. But they did. And we can prove it. 

Comments

I recently found out from the VA I have Hepatitis C which I feel was from the shots I had in Paris Island in 68 or from Helping many bloody Marines into choppers for medivac's. Last year the VA told me I was exposed to Agent Orange and cause he to become a Diabetic. Let me know what is in store next year. Victor Cortes 6/30/2002. to reach me my e-mail address is reddog4950@yahoo.com. Semper Fi

Comments

I was in the U.S. Navy from November 1973 to November 1977 and had airgun injections in boot camp in 1973, I have since tested positive for Hepatitis C and B. Never used hard drugs and am interested in information on seeing if the airgun injections could have cause the hepatitis. my E-mail is Oakface@yahoo.com

Comments

My name is Rodney Cordle. I began basic training in the fall of 1976, at Fort Knox, Kentucky. I believe that I was exposed to the Hep C virus from the jet guns here. If there is anyone else who was at Fort Knox during this time who has hep c, please contact me. draftgoof@hotmail.com

Comments

fellow veterans, I have also just found out that I have hep c. I found this web site and was surprised to find out of this possibility. I had never used needles. I have smoked pot, and had unprotected sex over the years. I am devestated that I am now faced with this problem. Last year I watched on C Span a veterans motorcycle rally at the pentagon. They had many speakers, on many subjects, from pow's, to veterans rights. I thought I saw a former miss america talking about hep-c. I really wasn't paying much attention at the time. Now of coasre I can't find out enough. There must be more information out there on this subject [ hep-c contamination] we must find out more. We must band together if the possibility exist's that we were made sick by these past pratice's.

Comments

My name is Charles Morris and I have been fighting the VA for service connected disability sense 1997 and was just turned down (10-01-2002) because my medical records from 1972 do not show that I had Hepatitis C and we all know that Hep-C was not known or detectable until 1991. This worries me that the same government is in charge of our home land security. They need to compinsate out vets for using chemicals on us that would kill the Viet Nam survivers 30 years later. grandwebmaster@satx.rr.com

Comments

I was a door gunner, crewchief on a slick for one tour and the same on a gunship for two tours. We directly supported SOG flying missions accross the fence. We had to medivac our own troops as well as nationals, real medivacs were not allowed in these areas. The exposure to our wounded blood plus having open wounds ourself has seemed to cause a higher rate of HepC than is normal. But we were all injected with the air guns as well. I am rated at 70%, 50% PTSD and only 20% for HEPC. I am in stage 4 cirrohsis. I would be very interested in the aforementioned case you won. Jimdavies@direcway.com

Comments

Hi, Last march I was granted 20 % service conection for hep-c I have this matter in the appeal process at this time. My V S O and my doctor at the V A med center in miami say that I am 100% disabled!! I am sure that you know how slow the D R O in st Pete florida is!!

Comments

I was on active duty from 14 sept. 67 to 15 sept. 70 I have none of the risks for hep-c. such as , tattos or injection of any recreational drugs Upon discharge from active duty. I remember getting shots with the air gun and alot f us guys at that time was wondering why they were shooting use up with bloody air guns.. We asked and was told. "NO matter what you get we can cure" At that time many of us got cold chills running thru us. 321l@usa.com

Comments

My husband was diagnosed with Hep C in 1994 during a routine physical. He did not engage in any risky behavior outlined as methods of transmitting this disease, except he was immunized with the airgun injector when we was called upon to serve at the Gulf War. Ironically, my husbands brother, who he had not had contact in over 15 years, also had Hepatitis C (he passed 2 years ago); he served in Vietnam with the Marines.

Comments

I treat patients at the Louisville VAMC every Friday. This is where I started treating HCV, and I have a special bond to my many patients there. We are fighting this epidemic together. I am a strong advocate for all HCV infected veterans. If you have HCV and want to try to be cured, the VA should try to cure you. Now, many doctors tell patients "you are not a candidate". You were a candidate to fight for our freedom, and you are candidate to be cured of HCV. Fight for your rights, like you fought for you country. I will help you if I can. Dr. Ben Cecil http://hepatitisdoctor.com

Comments

i don't have hepatitis but i have lupus that many namvets have and the va will not give me shit carmelbeach@aol.com

Comments

VIET NAM ERA VET HERE. I WAS VACCINATED MANY TIMES WTH THE AIR JETGUNS AND ALSO HAVE TO THINK ABOUT THE GAMMA-GLOBULIN INJECTIONS THAT I GOT IN JAN OF 1968. I NOW HAVE THE HEP-C VIRUS AND ITS A BATTLE. THANKS A LOT SAM!!!----------------------------------------KEN FISHBUGE@AOL.COM

Comments

At present I have a claim in the v.a. for hep b.The first reply I got back was denied. Then I got a letter to report for an appointment at the v.a. hopital,this is the first time anyone has requested to see me.they denied the first time on just what the v.a. rep. had witten.For 30 years my owe doctor has been checking the blood tests,this is the first time i have filied a claim.the V.A. had this notice on the board for vets to come down to be checked for hep.c.I called them and asked what about hep.b . they said I should file a claim with a vets rep.which is what i did.I was in the Army 70-72 korea,and just like the other letters expressed concern over the air gun injections and the four root canals and other filings I had done while in korea.It seems funny that before we left Fort Lewis wa.the army gave us information about Korea and what to do to prevent catching hepatitis while there. fx7772000@yahoo.com

Comments

My name is Steve A. Payne. They say i contracted HCV gento type 1 During the middle 1970's. I wonder or i am curious of the facts with the courts and so on... Please give more information at stevesplanets2@msn.com or call Hm@770-389-3269 please leave message. Sincerely Yours, Steve A Payne

Comments

Sorry, I was in the marine corps between 1973-1977 and overseas. this is from my last statement seconds ago my address is stevesplanets2@msn.com or hm# 770389-3269

Comments

You have a great thing going here. I am not a vet & I applaud each & everyone of you for keeping this country safe & free. I have hep c & I don't know how I got it I am in no risk groups & can only suppose I got it from the dentist or a shot from a medical providers needle. I have a site for all us Heppers with message boards & scheduled chat every Thursday at 7:00 p.m. Central Time. I hope you will join & become a part of my site. I have some really good people & some good info. & great links. God Bless You All. http://groups.msn.com/HEPCSUPPORTGROUP

Comments

I entered the military in 1977 and was given all sorts of shots with the jet gun never occurred that this might have been the way i contacted my Hep C. I have submitted paperwork with the VA for 100% disability I heard it takes about 6-9 months for determination and they were not very helpful or understanding. I have started treatment am in my fourth month and it sucks. I never realized how much you take you health for granted. I work at the post office and they do not understand why i am sick all the time. I called in sick one day and my supervisor asked me was I dying or what. Real sweet huh.... Have never felt so discriminated against in my life. I have met so many vets that have hep c you would think maybe the government would wake up and realize what they have done. I thank god i did not pass it on to my two children and husband. If anyone feels like talking just email me at judsonsa@aol.com i go through stages of real depression and it sure helps to talk about it with other vets. god bless all of you hang in there sarah...

Comments

What happened in th 60's & 70's?That is when most of us got HCV. The average age of a HCV patient is around 45 to 65.

Comments

I was in the Marine Corp in 71,72.I got all the air gun injections in boot camp (PI) I was also 5 months on the USS St.Louis on the coast of Nam. During that time we had a guy infected with hep, but there was no such thing as c at that time. this guy had to be medivaced and we never heard any more about him. But the next day they injected everyone on the ship with some kind of serum. They said so we don't get the infection. I got sick during that time and it was diagnosed as epididimytis and they gave me tetracycline and it seemed to go away. 20 years later after seeing many doctors to find out why I always felt so bad I found out I had advanced hep c. I have since been through interferon treatment twice. It did not work. other than make me sicker. I eventually had to be transplanted. I have no way to prove where I got infected because there was no such disease when I got infected. I had many complications along the way including collapsed lungs in the final stages. I missed work so much that I got fired from the job I had. three years short of early retirement.27 years. Although I feel lucky to be alive because there were many people in the hosp. with me that did not make it because of the short supply of livers and long supply of patients, I still feel like I was abandoned because I live in a country where you can be fired from your job because it takes so long to get a liver transplant. I feel pretty good today but I am unable to work, and my new liver is again infected because they can't cure hep c. I will need a new liver eventually if I live that long. almost like being a vampire. phantom6000@go.com

Comments

I served in the Air Force from 1963 to 1967. It was common practice to receive shots needed for overseas travel by jet injectors. It seems I had misplaced my shot record [a little card] so I had to receive the shots all over again before going home to the States. Also one of my duties was to load and unload filthy mail bags from aircraft that were also used to transport the dead and wounded. At the time I didn't realize that I could be exposed to blood containments that were sometimes on the floor of these aircraft. Also we had to open and empty every bag containing mail. Also we received mail directly from military personnel, wounded or otherwise. Vietnam was not a very clean place. I served in Bien Hoa and Tuy Hoa and traveled to various places in-between.

Comments

I served in the U.S. Army from January 1976 to January 1979. I learned I was infected with HepC in 1992 after giving blood during an annual blood drive. I'm feeling more exhausted these days than ever. There is nowhere else I could have contracted HepC, but the Army. I received those jet gun immunizations when I was at Fort McClellan, Alabama for basic training in 1976, had a lot of dental work done while in the Army, was treated for food poisoning in 1977, was tested for diabetes in 1977 and had a baby in 1978. The Army poked me with a lot of needles during the three years I was in. I'm not a drug user, never have been. That is why I've been hesitant about coming out about the disease...people think you were a drug addict. My husband is a Vietnam era veteran who received several blood transfusions as he was shot twice while in Vietnam. He served on the front line; an infantryman. handwash@bellsouth.net

Comments

My name is Trudy Coker and my husband Jerry has Hep C and chronic Liver disease. He was a medic in the army and went to Vietnam is 1970. We feel as you do that the jet guns and being a medic are where he received his disease. He has tried the treatment, could not take it. He fights a battle with kidney stones from his malfunctioning liver. He is now getting test results back about tumors in the liver. Praying he has not got liver cancer. Lets keep praying for each other and keep each other informed on steps to take to get help. I have written letters to our politicians what next? Haven't heard anything from his VA claim. I can be emailed at tcoker52@yahoo.com

Comments

I was diagnosed with HCV at the VA hospital around 1997-1998. I was wounded on March 31, 1971 in Vietnam and do not know if I received a blood transfusion or not. The DAV says they cannot find any record, that I did. Many doctors say due to the severity of my wounds, I probably would have received a blood transfusion. Whether this caused the Hep C or not, I do not know. (Was hit by shrapnel in the arm, chest, stomach, (shrapnel still embedded in last 2 mentioned, lung was collapsed) back, buttocks and legs) I am already 100% for PTSD, 30% for shrapnel wounds, 10% for tinnitus. The doctors do not want to give me a liver biopsy because I would have to go off my meds, and that would make me suicidal. I take 4-100 mg of Wilburton, 4 times a day and 4-1mg of Xanax, 4 times a day. I am on the Agent Orange list also, due to exposure to Agent Orange. I was given Ejections from Air Guns in Basic Training at Ft. Campbell, Ky, and or at Ft. Knox. I was 17 years old when I joined the military and was a very, very, healthy young man. I did not shoot up, or snort any drugs. Don Miller 1/1 Cav, America Div 70-71 100% T&P <ptsdyo@rtcol.com>

Comments

I served in the United States Army from 1974-1976. I am a Vietnam War Era female vet that served in the United states through basic training, my military school, than in Wurzburg, Germany. I have had no contact with illegal drug use, or blood transfusions before I entered the military for the first time. There is a possibility that I aquired the HepC from airguns, but, alas, it cannot be 100% determined, and if it can be determined, how? You can contact me @cadorsey@wpcs.com. Thanks!

Comments

USArmy, Combat Medic, Vietnam '69-'70, ten months on line, recently diagnosed with HepC. Am scheduled for Liver biopsy in October. No tatoos, drug use, or other such activities that might have spread the desease EXCEPT the combat duty. I'd like to know what the stats are for combat medical people during Vietnam testing positive for HepC. I can be reached at "scanerne@hotmail.com"

Comments

My good friend Ret Sfc. Wiley Hedge served in Nam 69-70 died 9-18-02 from Hep c. The US Govt. did nothing to help

Comments

I AM WOKKING NOW I AM A VIET NAM VET BUT I AM WORKING I A AM BLOOD WORMING MAN I LIVE ON DEPOT STREET WALDOBORO MAINE 04572 I SEE TO DOLLYS BLOODWORMS IN WISCASSET MAINE I GET PAID BY CHECK I COLLECT FOOD STAMPS IN ROCKLAND MAINE I ALSO PAY CHILD SUPPORT IN ROCKLAND ME.

Comments

entered army in 1978. had many airgun injections there. saw lots of people bleed after recieving those injections. I am now 44 yrs. old and just found out I am a pos and c pos. no history of hard drug use. had very few sexual contacts without protection in the 80"s.

Comments

to billie clark, i also was at ft. gordan ga. in 1978, i was there may thru aug. and believe that is where i got my hep c. i am now 44. never used hard drugs. i was in company e fourth battalion. there was also a man named steven crain, who turned yellow after the shots and went to the hospital, never saw him again. i've got the platoon book, page 9 shows us gettihg our air gun shots.i hope that something is found soon to help us. i know two people recieving treatment and they both are terribly sick from the treatment. i start treatment soon. good luck to you .