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I have received documentation from my doctor that the use of the air injection gun, used for mass inocculations was my prime sorce of my contaction hepatitis-C. I was treated with Interferion & Ribervarion, but had no drop in my viral loads. When I went to the VA Hepatitis-C Clinic at John Cochran Hospital, I was told that all that can be done for me has been done. I was placed on a non-responders list. Since then I have developed arthritis in the joints of my body that using my hands and walking on my feet have become unbarable. Yet when I filed a claim for the arthritis, I was turned down. Even though I have a letter from both the VA Rhumatologist and my own private Rhumatologist that both insist that my hepatitis-c is the sole sorce of my arthritis. Thank You, Lee Bolin 493-50-3705 brenleebolin@msn.com

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I contacted Hepatitis-C while in boot camp in San Diego during the mid 1970's through the use of the air injection gun. This was confirmed by my Hepatologist. I was also turned down during my last C&P exam for having sever arthritis as a resault of my hepatitis. This was even confirmed by the VA's own Rhumatologist and my own private Rhumatologist, but I was still turned down. I have tried the Interferion & Riberviron treatment, but nover had a drop in my viral loads. So the VA Hepatitis-C Clinic said they can't do any thing more for me and placed me on a non responders list. Meanwhile, there is nothing they can do about it. (BTW-My VA hospital told my Congressman that their hepatitis-c clinic is one of the best in the US). This seems a little strange since it is ran by two physicians assistants. Never once saw a real doctor. Thnaks for reading my post. Sincerely, Lee Bolin brenleebolin@msn.com

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My husband was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver two yrs.ago due to hepatitis c. After reviewing his medical history his current physicians stated the only way he could have contacted the hepatitis was through airgun immunizations in his basic training at a Marine Corps boot camp. He has been denied three times by VA. The last denial we received we were told there was no scientific proof he could have received the virus through immunizations. He is in advanced stages, so therefore he has definitely had this for over 30 yrs. according to his physicians.

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I believe I contacted the Hep C virus while stationed in Fort Knox, Kentucky for basic training in Sept 1976. Anyone who was here and also hep c, please contact me. Rodney Cordle draftgoof@hotmail.com

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I am a Vietnam Vet. I was in BearCat in 68-69. I received the air gun shots at Fort Leonardwood Missouri. I have been diagnosed with Hep C and have gone through treatment twice, with the treatments lasting a year each. The second time, I was cleared of the virus, but am continuing to check on it's status. I am interested in the progress of the air gun issue. My e-mail is smoopy2001@yahoo.com.

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Dear fellow Vets. I was in the Army for 15 yrs and two tours of VN. I also pulled two tours in West germany. Well for you guys that have been there and done that too know about all the immunizations that we had to take going overseas especialy VN. you recieved the most for that place!! also take into account that our annual flu mandantory shots each year. All with "the gun". I also have had a drug problem and its in my records.But I wasn't on drugs during all these shots from the gun and before.I can't get Va to treat my hep "C" right away because of my major depression.The treatment causes depression. What scares the hell out of me is my viral count 7,000,000 Ive been told the max is 6,000,000. I have filed for service connection for Hep"C". last week. any info any one can about how I can get through this red tape and get treatment Please!!! contact me. kd5hhd@yahoo.com Thanks Bros Harold Tees

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You may me wrong on the first veteran to be awarded service connection due to the use of the air gun. My private doctor wrote a letter to the VA stateing that "Due to the fact that I don't have any tatoos, and have one sex partner and looking at the history of the jet injectors, it is more likely than not that the injectors were the sole transmission of my hepatitis-C". This was back in 2000. I was awarded a whopping 10% for my hepatitis-C. Through my appeals, it is no rated at a big 20%. I have filed a claim for severe arthritis and have a statement from the VA's own rhumatologist and my private rhumatologist that state yes, indeed, hepatititis-c can cause severe arthritis. Yet, this doctor denied my claim. Just before I saw this doctor, I had an appointment with a psych. doctor. She stated that I was well dressed, had good eye contatct, was polite and answered all her questions the best I could. Right after seeing her, I saw Dr. Towel on Head. He claimed that because of the morphine pump that I have implanted in my stomach to controle my chronic pain, I could barly answer his questions. He then denied my claims for an increase due to severe arthritis, more on the hepatitis-C, erectile dysfunc tion (my testosterone level was 40, = a person who has been casterated), and a claim that my primary VA doctor and my pain specialest filled out stating that I was housebound. If I were driving and had an accident and they found out I have a implanted morphine pump, I would get a DUI. A request for a new C&P exam was made back in 10/2003, bit to date I still have not heard one word about recieving a new exam. SNAFU!

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I entered the US Navy 2 Jan 68. I recieved injections using the jet guns. There was no universal precautions taken and most experienced bleeding from the injection site. I also had several other possible risks from dental work that caused possible blood transfer. We were also used as ginypigs for tests of some drugs. After discharge i was diagonosed with non A / non B hepatitis. In 2003 I was diagonosed with hep C with stage 3 liver disease and started drug therapy July 2004. CDC risk factors rule everything out leaving service connection as the only cause. I am presently planning on appealing my case. Get tested and continue to fight. Treatment makes it difficult but I have just begun to fight. I will not give up. Wild Bill

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8/19/04 I,truly belive that I was infected with hcv by jetinjections.any vets out there,that had basic traning in 1972 at us naval station in orlando FL.and have been diaganosed with hcv please contact me at www.lorash @ bellsout.net.Please go get tested if you havenot done so.Thanking you in advance,greg B.

I,truly believe that i was infected with hcv by jet injections,while doing basic traning in 1972 at the US Naval station in Orlando FL. Any vets out there that received traning doing this time and have tested positive for hcv,Please contact me Greg Brown at www.lorasha @bellsouth.net

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I was a Medic/ Dental assistant during Jan 1962 till Oct 1966, I was subjected to alot of blood exposure and needle/ instrument cuts such as suture needles, bard parker cuts (scalpel). I have allot of suspicios symptoms to match. I am currently in End stage liver disease diagnosed at the VA as NASH disease. I understand that there is alot of misdiagnosis of Hepatitus C as being called NASH disease! I am awaiting a liver transplant at this time, Im also a Type 2 diabetic with sudden onset, and in need of cardiac bypass work. The shots were all from the Injector guns, as a medic we got them all! I am married to the same Woman for 39 years, no tatoos, no IV drug abuse. VA calls it Fatty Liver disease? Archie, Sgt. 820 Med Group tweetty@highstream.net

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I was diagnosed with hep-c 11 years ago, 9 years ago I had a liver transplant, I have been in the process of trying to obtain disability through the v.a. here in Idaho for the last 4 yrs. I have been turned down once and 2 other times because I didn't get my paper work in on time . I'am still trying to obtain disability. In Sept. 1970 at Ft Lewis I was in the hospital for 3 days due to a cut in my wrist , I was told by the attending Dr. that I had lost alot of blood and they had to give me a blood transfusion. My records don't show this and they are perty incomplete according to my own dr. I have gotten word from Madigan Army Hospital that all blood records in the blood bank have been dicarded, prior to 1984. I also was given all my shots as well as everyone ele's with the air gun,s. I have been very lucky with my transplant, Thank God, I've been able to keep on working up to the current time, but now the medication I take for anti-recjetion is deteriating my Kidney's and I also have bone deteriation. I have been told by two different VA hospitals to move to another state as the one I live in is the worst in the U.S. for Vet. to get any help from. I was very happy to find this web. site and the information on the air Guns. Thanks for Starting it. To all those who have Hep C. I wish you the best and pray that God will help each and everyone of You. E.D.W. Idaho.

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my name is Steve Burch and i joined the navy in 1965 went to viet nam dec 1967 and served in viet nam thru 1968 I was a radarman and served on many small boats MFT/115/116 was discarged in 1970. I went on to be a carpenter untill 2001 at the boise VA. was treated for Hep c it was a study by rouch medical co. Is was doing it out/pat the next thing i know iam on the flight deck Boise V.A. they would not treat me any more and put me on phsi/meds. So i tryed to return to work and the interferon some how caused my back ot go out. So I made it to my sisters in Seattle and went to the V.A. rasing Hell and they put me back on the flight deck then sent me to the PTSD program. An I filed for compensation. They give me 100% PTSD. Now i find out that I have type II diabitis and chorrois of the liver I filed for HEP C but because i dont know where i got it but the doctors two of them say i had i for a long time 30 plus that would be viet nam or boot camp. through this hole prosses ive learned a lot about filling claims if I can help anybody contact stevewburch@yahoo.com

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i ask you that one who is hcv patient can he take any exercise and body building etc.

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WELL, MY HUSBAND JUST PASSED AWAY (AUG.29,2002) OF SEVERE HEP C LIVER DISEASE. AND THE VA TOLD ME IT WAS NOT SERVICE CONNECTED WHICH I DISAGREE TOTALLY. I HAVE HIS BOOK THAT HE GOT WHILE IN THE SERVICE SHOWING SERVICE MEN GETTING THOSE INJECTIONS FROM THOSE INJECTORS.HE WAS IN THE SERVICE FROM (1971-1977) AND I THINK TO THIS DAY HE GOT IT THERE FROM THOSE INJECTORS...BUT I DON'T KNOW WHERE TO LOOK FOR HELP....MY E-MAIL ADDRESS IS (cherylchuha557@hotmail.com) IF ANYONE WANTS TO ASK ME ANYTHING OR HELP ME GET INFORMATION ...THANKS CHERYL

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Hello--I am the wife of a Vietnam Vet (66-69) who served in the Marine Detachment aboard the USS Long Beach. He was diagnosed with Hep C in April 2000, has been through 48 week combo treatment, non responder and virus is running rampant again (1.8 million) My husband remembers the airgun injections as many do, with the blood dripping, etc. He also had risk of exposure through dental work done while on ship, and....7 surgeries to REMOVE a tattoo he had done while in the service. Because this would be considered "cosmetic" surgery and that was not allowed, there is no mention of it in his medical records. In his entrance physical, the tattoo is not there. We have pictures with him in uniform with the tattoo, statements from other servicemen he had it and about the surgeries, and a discharge examination that does not show the tattoo. The last biopsy (prior to combo treatment) he had stage 3/4 of fibrosis. Not sure what it is now. Unfortunately, the doc who treated him for HepC is not in support of the Vet. We are seeing a new doc in Oct. 04 and we will see what option are available and, get a second opinion on the length of time since my husband was exposed. We know it was during the 66-69 time frame he served. 1st doc was unwilling to even say it was a "probability" - The first claim has been denied, we are in the appeal process, and using the American Legion for support....he also has type II diabetes which is a presumable illness related to Agent Organge exposure. This was denied also. My husband's health has declined greatly in the past 10-12 years. Now we know why. We wonder what the next 10-12 years is going to bring..but, only can deal with today and keep our spirits positive. Lori LLMo@aol.com

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I was just recently told that I am positive for Hep C by my Dr at the VAMC in Oklahoma City, OK. It has been over 4 monthst since I was informed and still no assessments have been performed. I also have a lesion or nodule on my right lung and the Drs are telling me this takes priority over my Hep C. I have an biopsy coming up. I believe that I contracted Hep C thru blood transfusions in 1972. I had surgery for a bleeding stomach ulcer in which I lost a portion of my stomach and recieved many units of blood. I also recieved Jet gun vaccinations in 1971 during boot camp and prior to going to Germany in 1972. I do have two tattos that were done in 1986 but where done with my gun under sterile conditions. The treatment I am receveing is very poor at the VA here. I could go on and on about their sloppy work. My brother who also served from 1974 -76 has Hep C also and is disabled. I can contacted at Whitewidoww@yahoo.com

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My father contarcted hepatitis C in Vietnam and died recently due to the effects of it. Due to the hepatitics he had cirrhois of the liver and then found out that he had liver disease.

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I was in boot camp in April of 1970.I beleive i contacted Hepatitis there. I came back to Louisville, Ky. I recieved a discharge in November of 1970. I spent most of the summer in the hospital in Louisville. My doctors told me I had serum hepatitis and yellowjondice. I had a bout with this and went to the hospital for 2 weeks, then went home after the jaundice had gone away. Then 2 weeks later I almost died from the hepatitis, I returned to the hospital and spent several weeks there. It was 1997 when I took a blood test at a Methadone center and was told I had hepatitis C. I am currently on the methadone program at the VA hospital in Cinn, Ohio. I have been offered nothing for this condition. If there are others in this area that share similar circumstances, please feel free to contact me. Anthony Damron. sawdoctor@insightbb.com

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My name is Jeff Rubin.I am Dying from Hep C I got while in the Navy 1971-1972.I had jet injectors used on me and 2 surgeries(before there was a thing such as Hep C.Ive been turned down for service connection and my medical Naval hospital records are few(say they were lost in a fire)and the ones I do have have been forged and altered.Can anyone please help me.Im 51 and will need a liver but cannot get one unless Im service connected.My Phone is (California)760-947-5283.My Email is Jcskids87@aol.com..............PLEASE HELP,,,,,PLEASE...............Respectfully....Jeff Rubin

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I voluntered for active duty Aug 73. Boot camp was Orlando, Fla. I seperated Aug 77. I was Dx'd HCV spring of 2004. I filed for wartime service connected disability Aug 2004. Application is pending. I was a corpsman. My first duty assignment was Camp Pendelton, Ca. I was assigned to a hepititus ward. I was there 1 yr. During that time I experienced a accidental needle stick requiring anti-Hepititus serum tx. Pt's then either had A or B. I feel my exposure to Hep C was either there or the air jet innoculations in boot camp. As do many of you, I remember the bloody mess of smallpox vacination and the open wound that followed thru most of boot camp living in close proximity of recruit barracks. My thought is if infected then I wonder how many people I transmitted the disease to thru the course of my enlistment working in emergency rooms while in the military or the thousands I treated after discharge as a volunteer firefighter riding ambulances in the suburban Washington DC area for 8 years. How many other health care workers in the military were thrown in the same lot as myself? fgrouell@comcast.net

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I enlisted in the army in 1974(vietnam era) and went to bootcamp @ Fort Dix NJ, I also recieved the airgun injection inoculations. Since that time I have found out that I have the Hepatitis C virus and severe arthiritis and depression. I am always suffering from chronic fatigue also. I am happy and relieved to know that there is a reason to my contracting this disease and some possible recourse. It has been wreaking havic on my physical and mental processes.

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Hello members, my name is Damon from Houston,Tx.,and i was diagnosed with hep c in 1994. I donated blood at Ft. Hood twice but they didn't catch it until the second time. I received a letter from the Army telling me that i had hepc. I never had a permiscuous sex life nor any tattoos,but i did get a hernia surgically removed at Ft Richadson,Ak. and i remember another soldier running into me with his teeth and slicing my face open to where i had to received stitches. There was some blood exchange. I,ve filed for my d-claim 8 months ago and i have no representation someone please help and guide through this process. My ets date was 10 years ago. averymac1@msn.com

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craigohill@lvcm.com: I served as an artillery observer with the third marines Vietnam 67-68. My Hep C first showed up in 1988 after I had a phyicial done. It was not diagnosed with Hep C but the Dr. said I had elevated enzyme levels. After seeing a Doctor Jan 2000 He told Me I had hep C. I dont have any tats and I have never used needles, I have also been maried 30 years to the same woman. In Nam we were in the bush most of the time my arms and hands had open sores all the time. I figured I probablly got hep C due to contact with wonded. It could have come from other sources but I'm 90% sure I got It In Vietnam.

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I was a medic from 1975 to 1983. We were never taught and rarely used steril techniques. I also received many airgun injections. I retired in 1997 and was diagnosed with Geno type 1, stage 4 Hep c last year during a routine physical. But like many Vets I don't know where to turn to for help with the VA. Daniel F. Jones, 1SG, USA, Retired

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8/20/03, My husband was 101st, 1969-1971,Vietnam. He is S/P liver transplant 4/22/03. He is in the hospital tonight with ? abcess of liver, will know more tomorrow after CT scan. He was hit during front line fire during his tour of Vietnam and had to be taken to Camp Radcliff for injury from shrapnel, had to have a blood transfusion then, he also contracted malaria and was sprayed many times with Agent Orange. He also was hospitalized in Fort Benning, GA after Vietnam with relapse of Malaria,requiring yet another blood transfusion and yes, he was given his military shots with the 'GUN"... He has HEP C which caused his liver to have cirrhosis. He has still not been able to be treated for the Hep C, due to his platelet count being too low, even after transplant. I am very interested in helping fight the VA for ALL Veterans, who have benefits they should be receiving, but not getting yet due to "burden of proof" being laid on the veteran!!! PLEEEEASE!!!!!! We have been battling this since 1997, (Second time around). Ijust will not give up. He did once before in 1989, but not now. We'd love to hear from anyone with any additional information about compensation. We've done everything VA has asked for, plus some and it's never enough in their book..... I'll take it to the top to anyone willing to listen. Check out homepage... Go to Google and type in Billy Bazemore, Music Is For Me.... William "Billy" Wildman Bazemore and wife, Tanya please write to Theshagsinger@aol.com

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In 1981 while in Navy boot camp in Orlando, Florida all of the female recruits received shots via air gun. When I left boot camp to attend school outside of Chicago,Illinois I noticed my eyes were very yellow and I didn't feel good. I just came from bootcamp and was in excellent shape, there should have been no reason for me to be ill. It should be noted it was in the summer time, July 1981. I went to the hospital on Great Lakes and was immediately put in isolation for over a month. Since that time I have suffered from cronic skin break outs, deterated immune system which makes me feel like I am going to pass out. I am having my claim reevalued to finally have the VA state after five years of treatment that my problems have not been cured and are getting worse as time goes on. I was told by the corpman while in the hospital that there were other ladies and men who were infected during bootcamp and were also in the hospital. becarp@yahoo.com

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The reason why I think that I was infected by the air-gun use, is for when I went in , there was no for me to use someone else shaving equipment, for I was just 17 at the time,I didn't have a need to shave,for there was nothing there, I haven't seen cocain or any thing of that nature while I was in the military, I will admit that I did smoke pot, and as far as tatoo's I was told that in my records, I had admitted to having tatoo's, well that isn't so, not only did I not admit it, for I don't have any tatoo's, plus the fact that I was able to find a person that joined the same time and day that I did, and he has the same thing, so I know that this is where I got it from

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Army 1971, vietnam vet, wounded, that caused,loss of rt, lung loss of rt, shoulder muscle and laseration of my sperior vena cava,was given 23tranfusions of blood and blood products, did well until the year 2ooo, started having severe fatigue, nausea, vomiting and joint pain. Iwas tested for hepc and was postive for the antibodies. started interferon therapy in June 2000 and completed treat ment in June, 2001.was genotypte 1a, non respoder,after treatment liver is enlarged and by biopsy f4 fibrotic score possible 2nd round of treatment in Dec may particpate in a clinical trial, looking to get more information about it before i decide, presently only 30%sc for hepc have applied for increase in June of this year. waiting for the decision as we speak, already 100%SC unemployable, however appling for increase for hepc as a matter of principle. I hope you heppers out there keep fighting, uncle sam, and that, dreded dragon that is awake in us 24/7, good luck my e-mail address is gheart2003@comcast,net, i look forward in hearing my fellow vets to see how you are doing God Bless all of you PEACE.

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We need to keep the pressure on our legislators, and on Vets Affairs to FINALLY recognize ALL THE SIDE EFFECTS of dioxin, and to pay hard-earned compensation. Secretary Principi has said that not all combat injuries are caused by shrapnel or bullets, and HOW RIGHT HE IS, BUT those are just 'make vets feel good' meaningless words. We need to demand that VA stop wasting money on useless studies and research, mainly meant to "buy time" for more vets to die, and not have to worry about paying us compensation. The geniuses conducting this "research" continue sucking tax-payer money, fully aware that the data they receive from VA DOCTORS is useless, since these wimpy doctors say their "hands are tied" in being able to write down that this or that KNOWN SIDE EFFECT disease is related to dioxin and the other chemicals we were doused with, including ARSENIC, BROMOCIL, BENZENE, PICHLORAM, etc. Civilian doctors are not much better. They say that, "I don't know that much about chemicals." I have handed them literature which I download, related to these chemicals, but they just set it aside indifferently. I will be glad to email all this data to anyone interested in receiving it, to use in applying pressure to your congressman/senator and the VA to recognize ALL the illnesses, not just cancer, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung fibrosis, liver damage, degenerative joint disease (DJD), cysts on various body organs, wasting (losing strength in lower back, legs and arms),metabolism disorders, etc., all serious and life-threatening diseases. All these are combat-related, and we should be compensated as such. placidos1@msn.com.

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i was drafted into the army in may 1969 and left in may 1971. in that time i received close to 24 auto air-gun innoculations. amazing how those vivid memories returned immediately after being told i had hepc in march. this is the only time i have had a needle put into my bloodstream directly from that of another human. this IS the reason so many of our generation have this epidemic virus. they stole our youth. and now they have stolen our health in what i feel is the prime of our lives. WE MUST GET ORGANIZED...ALL 30 MILLION OF US...AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE. WE HAVE THE POWER...IT IS CALLED A VOTE! jamie antonia

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my father died in durham va in 2000 he died from hcv they operated on him march 10 he died a few days later from chlirosis of his liver the doctor said his liver crumbled in her hand he had hepatitis when i was 17 iamnow 55 they never treated him for hcv they found cancer spots on his liver why didnt some one do something ?now my father is gone his name is wiley nathaniel moore from rocky mount n.c.WHY DIDNT CHECK HIM BEFORE IT WAS TO LATE my name is brenda m jones my e mail address is angelbaby_2681@hotmail.com my street address is brenda m jones 1601 curtis st. rocky mount n. c. 27803 phone>is {252}212_5301 please write me back i miss my dad thank you maybe this will help someone else GOD bless you"ll

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I feel that between the air injection guns used for mass inocloctions or the four surgeries I had on my ear. When you asked for a pain shot they gave it to you with a big chrome dagger that had been refused before. The needles wer so dull that it felt like an ice pick was jabbed into you because the needles were so dull. Also I had heard that just placing the syringed in steam did not eradicare the hepatitis-C virus.

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I was in vietnam in 1970 and received the air inoculations i was diagnosed with hcv about a month ago. Another nam vet told me about a thing he saw on line about a vet getting a service connected disability on this basis. If anyone can help me or have heard about this site please e-mail me at okawolfvb.hawk@verizon.net

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johndonaldson3@comcast.net. Drafted in 1972 out in 1974. No risk life style. Have one tatoo. Had airgun injections. Diagnosed 10/1/03 Hep C genotype 1a stage 4. Will start interferon treatment in January 04. I served in Europe. no intervenous drugs. I must have gotten Hep C from the air guns. I clearly remember being herded through the innoculation lines with the air guns and blood running down the arms of numerous inductees. I thought I was doing my patriotic duty serving my country. I am surprised/ apalled at the reckless disregard for our well being.

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find your genotype for hep c if you have tpye 3 the only place in the world you can hep c genotype3 is in s. e. asia that means vietnam a.o. breaks down immune system multiple ways of transport.v.a. would not type me they knew demand it

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I was in Ft Bragg 1994-96 I had Air injections,and Dental work done I was 17 years old I had two tatoo's I did to myself with a steril sewing needle. I was diagnosed with Hep -C in 1993 I filed a claim two years ago and was denied I recently refiled and I'm waiting for a responce. I also have had psoriasis in witch my skin was open to the elements sinse I was on active duty. If any one can help I would appreciate it. Al Martin Jr. alfredmartin@comcast.net

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I was in boot camp in July 1978 at Fort Dix, whe it came time for the airgun shots I (last name starting with W) was at the back of the line. There were dozens of guys coming back down the line with blood dripping down both arms, and they did not change nozzles or wipe them down, just step up between 2 guys and they blasted you. As you know, if you jump, the air cuts you. I was diagnosed with HCV in 1998. So far numbers are good and 2 biopsies have shown no damage to my liver so I have elected not totreat yet as I hope new and safer treatments are on the way. Brian Wolf 1978-1982 US Army

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I Gilbert Sandoval Lopez  got HEP C. I was in the US Marines in 1972. I got it for rest of my life. I get tired a got. It mess with my head alot.

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I WAS STATIONED IN PANAMA,1942- ONE MORNING IWOKE UP ,LOOKED IN THE MIRROR, MY SKIN WAS YELLOW, ALSO THE WHITES OF MY EYES, HAG TURNED YELLOW, I WENT TO SEE A NAVY DR. WHO TOLD ME TO TAKE ASPRIN AND TO REST, THE DR DIDNT KNOW WHAT I HAD,I RETURNED TO OUR BARRAKS, WHERE MY SQUAD LEADER TOLD ME, TO GO BACK AND TELL THE DR. I HAD YELLOW JAUNDICE, I DID GO BACK TO SEE THE DR, TOLD HIM AND HE AGREED IT WAS JAUNDICE,I NOW HAVE CYSTS ON MY LIVER, NO ONE HAS EVER OFFERED ANY DISABILITY PAYMENT, I HAVE HAD PROSTATE CANCER, A STINT, A PACEMAKER,3 GROIN HERNIA OPERATIONS,2 HEMROIDS OPS, ONE CATROID ARTERY OPERATION,TWO FEET OF MY DECENDING COLON REMOVED, APPENDIX OPERATION LOST SIGHT IN LEFT EYE,POOR CIRCULATION IN BOTH LOWER LEGS, NOT MUCH FEELING IN MY FEET I WILL BE 81 YRS OLD ON 1 JAN 04.MY BOWELS WONT WORK UNLESS I TAKE LACTIVES EVERY OTHER DAY,MY NAME IS GYSGT EUGENE H. YOUNG USMC RETIRED. 9 DEC 1941 TILL 06 62 MY PH# 228 897 8042 I LIVE IN THE AFRHG. THATS THE ARMED FORCES RETIRMENT HOME, GULFPORT MS, ADRESS IS 1800 BEACH DR. ROOM # I944 GULFPORT MS.39507 I PAY TO LIVE HERE, HAVE NO SAVINGS OR ANYTHING OF VALUE. TIME IS GROWING SHORT FOR ME ANY HELP YOU CAN GIVE ME WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED, MY ONLY CLAIM TO THE UNUSUAL IS JEE HARVER OSWALD WAS ASSIGNED TO ME FO ONE MONTH TO PULL MESSDUTY, IN CAMP PENDELTON CA. RESPECTFULLY GENE YOUNG EUGENEYOUNGMS@WEBTV.NET

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When I took my retirement physical prior to retiring I was found to be hepc virus antibody positive. Since I have no drug history or have not had a blood transfusion I suspect it could only come from the airguns that I was injected with in basic training.

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My name is Gordon Branham, I was in the Army from 1969-1971 I was wounded in Vietnam, in March 3rd, 1971, I had my right lung removed, and I lost a massive amount of blood, I was transfused with approxiately 30 units of blood and blood products, I was doing well until 1999, when I started feeling more fatigued than normal, I went to see the Dr. and they told me to lose some weight, and you have one lung what do you expect. I went to see a GI Doctor, who took my history, and saw that I had a large amount of blood transfused, he ordered blood test, and they showed I was postive for the hepc virus. My Genotype is 1a, I had a liver biopsy, that showed that I was a f4 on the fibrotic scale, which also means I have chirrios I will be seeing my GI Doctor on December 12th, to talk about going on tx. I will keep you informed of my progress.

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My name is Gordon Branham, I was in the Army from 1969-1971 I was wounded in Vietnam, in March 3rd, 1971, I had my right lung removed, and I lost a massive amount of blood, I was transfused with approxiately 30 units of blood and blood products, I was doing well until 1999, when I started feeling more fatigued than normal, I went to see the Dr. and they told me to lose some weight, and you have one lung what do you expect. I went to see a GI Doctor, who took my history, and saw that I had a large amount of blood transfused, he ordered blood test, and they showed I was postive for the hepc virus. My Genotype is 1a, I had a liver biopsy, that showed that I was a f4 on the fibrotic scale, which also means I have chirrios I will be seeing my GI Doctor on December 12th, to talk about going on tx. I will keep you informed of my progress.

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VET IN NEED OF HELP? TELEPHONE 301-2770615 AS IDO NOT HAVE E-MAILADDRESS. HAVED FILED SUIT IN FEDERAL COURT. WITH ALL THE DOCUMENTED FACTS FROM THIS SITE AND MUCH MORE INCLUDINGSHOT RECORD DD 214. AS I DO NOT HAVE THE PROPER DISCHARGE TO RECEIVE COMPENSATION.IT WAS MY ONLY OPTION.IN 1968 IN BASIC TRANNING FORT BRAGG N.C..MY COMPLAINT WSA DISMISSED IN THE LOWER COURT.APPEALED TO THE COURT WAITING FOR THE RULING AFTER DEC 9TH.. WHAT HELP OR SUPPORT MIGHT YOU ALL HAVE OR ADVICE.THE DOOR IS OPEN.ADDRESS 5805 42ND AVE HYATTSVILLE M.D. 20781

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My name is Tim Fitzgerald, US Marine Corps 1973-1976. I was in admin and did 13 mos in Okinawa and the rest at Lejeune. My wife recently made me go to the doctor for a check up due to my age. As she did in 2001, a blood test showed elevated liver enzymes but a doctor in Nebraska didn't pursue it. Recently moving to Virginia, my new primary care physician didn't like the elevation of the liver enzymes on that blood test and the fact that a major complaint of mine was being tired so she tested me for hepatitis c. It came back positive with active virus in my blood. I was never an intervenous drug user nor do I have any tatoos. She asked me if I was in the service and ever received injections with the air gun,and waited in those long lines with many other fellow Marines. She floored me. She also tested me for hepatitis b. That came back positive also but with no active virus. My recent liver biopsy came back as stage 3 and genotype 1. The doctors seem to feel this has been going on for probably close to 30 years. My wife came across this web site and couldn't believe the number of vets who have this illness. How many others are out there not even aware that they are sick such as myself until recently? I am requesting assistance at this time on what to do and where to go in the VA. With the DOD and VA always denying problems that have arisen over the years with vets I can only assume all of us who have hep c are in for a fight. I have a liver specialist in Richmond, but I'm sure the cost of the treatment I am to start will bleed my wallet. I am open to any suggestions and advise from any one. I've got a great deal of damage to my liver now because of a lack of information to all of us vets who served our country. It took all this time and an ambitious doctor to even test for this! I'm not willing to give my life now because of hepatitis c. I have two boys, one who's been out of the Marine Corps for two years and one going in. If it is these air guns, why are they still in use? This seems to be an illness that can be controlled to protect our service men and women, and it needs to start now! My wife who I've been with for almost 30 years was tested and she is negative. My email address is wynnefitz@cox.net. Timothy Fitzgerald Fredericksburg, VA

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I went into the Army 1/30/67 I went to nam in 4/68 and came back in 01/69. I received innoculations by air jet guns. I can remeber going through a line that had a corpsman on My left with regular syringes and one on the right with the air jet guns. I can remeber Them repeadly telling Us to not move or We will bleed. A soldier 2 up in front of Me either moved or the corpsman messed up but He shot blood on the air gun and the corpsmans hand. They gave Him nothing to wipe the blood off with and went on to the next Man then Myself. Their was blood on the gun yet when they gave Me My shots. After wondering where I got My Hep c from for almost 10 years I now feel I know. I have no other of Their at risk markers so I have filed claim and I am waiting to hear how the VA is going to blow this one off. My Hep C doctor is a very Prominant physician( He treated Naoimi Judd and put Her into remission) He tells Me He has read a lot on Air injectors and has NO doubt that I got it from them and He is preparing a statement to that effect. So Maybe I can beat them. I will not give up easy this time. Good luck to all My Brothers and Sisters that are fighting the VA and never give up. Skip Underwood 88th s&s bn DS Pleiku RVN

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I came into the service in Nov.21,1975. I went to Orlando,Fla. Company 3031 I was cut by the airguns in boot-camp. (After that I learned to lean into the gun.) I received 55 units of blood in 1967(11 y/o) and I had a reaction to all that blood. I have HCV Type 1. But know one knew. I found out in 1998 I had it. I had no idea that you could get HCV from airguns. I was also a Hospital Corpsman.

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I was in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri from Dec.72 to Feb. 73 for basic training. Todays date is Dec 30, 2003 I am into my seventh week of treatment I believe I got Chronic Hepatitus C from the inoculations from basic any one else at FLW during these times e-mail me at y03superstarr@hotmail.com My name is Charles E. Starr

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I was a Navy Hospital Corpsman who worked at the US Naval Hospital in Roosevelt Roads Puerto Rico from 1973-1975. The Naval Hospital had so many Hepatitis cases at that time it had to set up a separate Hep unit. Myself and several corpsman who worked in that unit were diagnosed with "Non-A, Non-B " Hep. and later that DX was corrected when the test for Hep C was available. Our cases probably originated with needle sticks and contact with blood-borne pathogens. michaelrobinsonus@yahoo.com

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My husband was in the Army during 1971-1974 (Vietnam era). We found out about 12 years ago he has hep c. I am certain he got the virus in the Army as he has no IV drug abuse, blood transfusion history. I am an RN in intensive care and am well aware about modes of transmission as well as what is to come. He has cirrhosis from the hep c (for about 4 years), and since last summer has shown symptoms of cirrhosis. He has missed a lot of work, and is unable to perform his regular duties. He was hospitalized over the summer due to complications, and was not working for a good part of the summer. We are trying to get benenfits from the VA. We keep getting denied (third and last appeal just filed in December, 2003). The Disabled Vets are assisting us. I have done reasearch and printed articles out to send to the VA on air injector guns and hep c. A few months ago I sent away for his medical records (entry and discharge) in the hopes they did blood work which would show no hep on entry, and hep on discharge. Of course I have heard nothing from the military. I am writing my congressmen today to see if they can offer any assistance. If anyone out there has any recommendations, please feel free to email me (superfred29@aol.com). Thank you

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alfordjr@hiwaay.net I was an infantryman in the Viet Nam war 1970-1971. I was wounded and medivac'd home. I don't recall how much fluid(plasma or blood)was transused into me. But I do know that it was some. A few months after discharge, I was hospitalized for kidney failure and cysts on my kidneys. I also had to have a tumor removed from my left breast. No reason for these ailments was ever found. In 1971 I was also was given quaaludes for sleep and tranxene for nerves. In April 2002 I was diagnosed with PTSD, but the VA would not accept that my illness was service connected until they diagnosed the PTSD. So none of my old records were considered. In 1997 I was diagnosed with chronic active hepatitus c, genotype 1. A liver biopsy was performed and I also have cirrhosis. The test also showed that I had had the disease for 30-35 years. I was asked to be in a drug trial to test interferon and ribavirin combination therapy. I did this horrific treatment for six months but the virus came back stronger than ever. After the FDA approved the combination treatment, the VA administered another twelve months of the therapy. After six months the virus broke through and again it was stronger than ever. I filed for hepc service connected disability in 1997. My case was denied and I was labeled a drug abuser or a homosexual. Because the VA said that those were the only ways to get hep c. I appealed the ruling, but again was denied. I have been married for over 25 years and we have four children. Neither my wife nor any of my children have hep c, which clearly indicates that I had it long before then and it is not as contagious as it is claimed to be. (only through bodily blood or blood products. I was an extremely active young adult, but now I am not. I cannot drive or walk around due to the effects of the hepc. My wife found your website and now I am going to re-file my claim for s/c for hep c. Thank you for your time. John

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I am the wife (32 years) of a very ill HepC Vietnam Vet. He is in the final stages of liver failure and we are just hoping that he will be placed in the liver transplant list and get a working liver. My husband was 17 at the time he enlisted to go fight for this country. A child in my mind. While in Korea he went to the village and got 3 tattoes the old fashioned way, with a needle and jar of ink. The needle did penetrate through the skin. The same bottle of ink was used for many customers with the needle being dipped into the bottle for more ink. These tattoes were done in other than sterile condtions. The people in the village were using water contaminated by sewage for growing crops, washing clothes, cooking, etc. The blood created by the entry holes from the needle was simply smeared away with a "rag". His exit interview does state the addition of the tattoes while in Korea. This is fortunate. In addition, he also recieved the shots at entry to bootcamp with the injectors, had dental work completed on base, used other vets razors during bidwhack?, etc. It is unfortunate that he did not know to list all these risks on his claim. He did not know he was infected until extreme fatigue set in in 92 and then tested postitive. I tested negative in 1992 when my husbands results were positive. Recently, after 2 negative test results-one returned stating that I was positive. It looks like I have it know. I have no one to hold responsible at this time. HOw about children born with Hep C, transmitted by the infected veteran parent. Who pays for this? I am alarmed that your site takes the position that tatooing doesn't transmit Hep C or that is is minimal. This may be true with modern day equipment in the United States,with proper sanitation and health department inspections, however, I think the evidence would show otherwise if the methods and equipment used to give the tatooes are considered. I also read where the CDC was doing a survey or study trying to come to a comclusion that tatooing is at minimal risk. My thoughts that they are were doing this so the United States Government won't have to pay HepC claims to Vets who got the disease this way. The CDC is completeing the study not based on actual labratory testing but obtaining the information based on the "risk factors" LISTED by the people who are being tested. They say few people have listed tatooes. I suspect this is because many people did not think about it before answering. Especially because it is normally 20-30 years before one knows they have the disease. One fact for sure is that the day my husband was tested and the results came back positive we knew nothing about this disease. The Doctor gave my husband a couple of choices to pick from and asked him what group he fell into too. Of course he didnt even mention tatoos, toothbrush, razor, air-gun injection, etc., because he wasn't told these were known risks. I recall my husbands choices stated by the Doctor were sex, iv drug-use, gay sex, promescuity, etc. I have read that up to 40% of people infected don't fit into the known risk groups. Thank God my husband didn't drink alcohol as they say this is like pouring gasline on a fire. It wouldnt surprise me at some point if the VA found a reason to deny claims calling drinking misconduct or contributary negligence. If 6-8% of Vets tested positive for Hep C they surely will be looking for ways to rule againse. So where does that leave us. I think all Veterans should be given the benefit of the doubt till the proof is in. Our veterans, especially war period veterans enlisted to go fight for the good old USA and if so die for our country. Who knew they would end up so sick with such a terrible disease that's ultimate result is premature death?

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I am the wife (32 years) of a very ill HepC Vietnam Vet. He is in the final stages of liver failure and we are just hoping that he will be placed in the liver transplant list and get a working liver. My husband was 17 at the time he enlisted to go fight for this country. A child in my mind. While in Korea he went to the village and got 3 tattoes the old fashioned way, with a needle and jar of ink. The needle did penetrate through the skin. The same bottle of ink was used for many customers with the needle being dipped into the bottle for more ink. These tattoes were done in other than sterile condtions. The people in the village were using water contaminated by sewage for growing crops, washing clothes, cooking, etc. The blood created by the entry holes from the needle was simply smeared away with a "rag". His exit interview does state the addition of the tattoes while in Korea. This is fortunate. In addition, he also recieved the shots at entry to bootcamp with the injectors, had dental work completed on base, used other vets razors during bidwhack?, etc. It is unfortunate that he did not know to list all these risks on his claim. He did not know he was infected until extreme fatigue set in in 92 and then tested postitive. I tested negative in 1992 when my husbands results were positive. Recently, after 2 negative test results-one returned stating that I was positive. It looks like I have it know. I have no one to hold responsible at this time. HOw about children born with Hep C, transmitted by the infected veteran parent. Who pays for this? I am alarmed that your site takes the position that tatooing doesn't transmit Hep C or that is is minimal. This may be true with modern day equipment in the United States,with proper sanitation and health department inspections, however, I think the evidence would show otherwise if the methods and equipment used to give the tatooes are considered. I also read where the CDC was doing a survey or study trying to come to a comclusion that tatooing is at minimal risk. My thoughts that they are were doing this so the United States Government won't have to pay HepC claims to Vets who got the disease this way. The CDC is completeing the study not based on actual labratory testing but obtaining the information based on the "risk factors" LISTED by the people who are being tested. They say few people have listed tatooes. I suspect this is because many people did not think about it before answering. Especially because it is normally 20-30 years before one knows they have the disease. One fact for sure is that the day my husband was tested and the results came back positive we knew nothing about this disease. The Doctor gave my husband a couple of choices to pick from and asked him what group he fell into too. Of course he didnt even mention tatoos, toothbrush, razor, air-gun injection, etc., because he wasn't told these were known risks. I recall my husbands choices stated by the Doctor were sex, iv drug-use, gay sex, promescuity, etc. I have read that up to 40% of people infected don't fit into the known risk groups. Thank God my husband didn't drink alcohol as they say this is like pouring gasline on a fire. It wouldnt surprise me at some point if the VA found a reason to deny claims calling drinking misconduct or contributary negligence. If 6-8% of Vets tested positive for Hep C they surely will be looking for ways to rule againse. So where does that leave us. I think all Veterans should be given the benefit of the doubt till the proof is in. Our veterans, especially war period veterans enlisted to go fight for the good old USA and if so die for our country. Who knew they would end up so sick with such a terrible disease that's ultimate result is premature death?

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I don't know if I was infected with Hep C while on Active Duty in the U. S. Navy, but I was medically discharged after serving seven years (Vietnam Era) for a serious colon bleeding disease. After my honorable discharge, I suffered a serious bleeding episode from my colon and was admitted to a VA Hospital where I received 5 units and 4 units of transfused blood prior to 1980 (two separate occasions) I believe this treatment of a service connected condition was where I most likely was infected with Hep C (I am a Category One VA Service-Connected Patient for the Colon Disease)Would this warrant also service connection for Hep C as I did not have any other risk factors, with the exception of Air Gun Jet, dental work,Colonoscopes, etc. Please advise. By the way VA REFUSED treat me for Hep C and I had to get drug treatment at a private clinic and the treatment worked. I am now virus free. Thanks, TheOrchard2@Aol.com

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I went to (Air Force) basic training in 1978. We were all inoculated with air guns. I was diagnosed with HCV in June of 1999. I've been on treatment twice and haven't cleared the virus. Does anyone know how to find out if there are others who were in my basic training flight have HCV? There must be others. It is the only way I could have contracted this disease (djmarquette@earthlink.net)

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Dear Sir, I was so happy finding your web page. I have had hepatitis c now for 32 years. I got it in boot camp in 1971, and presently I am waiting form my appeal with the va. I have been very sick for several years now. If you get a moment please look up in you search on the internet Scott Rose mosaic artist and look under beauty tips or look at the hepCconnection web site listed under beauty tips. The AP did an article about me and the service and hepatitis. Please read it, some people say they get the site easy some say they cannot find it. My thyroid went out a few months but I was finally able to get to a specialist who put me on thyroid pills I think it has made a world of difference having my thyroid funtioning somewhat again. The hep c has been terrable. I have had severe bone loss in the verterbra in my back, my kidneys cloted up terrible, thought I was dead. Everything started falling apart about 20 years after I was infected. When I was in boot camp in SanDiego I had a bad reaction to a jet injector innoculation and a few weeks later I was on an eight hour leave and got a tatoo of an American Eagle with USN in a banner on it. I don't know if it was the tatoo or the injector shot, but my eyes got yellow and I felt like I had the flue real bad. I only had a week left in training before a two break leave, so I mostly healed up on leave at home. The yellow in the eyes stayed for about three weeks or four weeks and went away. The flu like symtems also went away. So I figured it was just a taste of the California flu, I was wrong. I have been trying to get information for my claim with the VA, I am suppose to hear from an ajudacation officer and my attorney on a three way call. I haven't got a call yet, the va says they think around March or so maybe. I hear maybe alot from that direction. I hope they hurry up, I have been waiting for a rateing for many years now. I was discharged from the service on an Honoralbe Discharge under medical conditions, I dislocated my knee in the line of duty and had to put it back together myself (my doctor thinks I have a triumantic stress problem from doing that), but I have never recieved anything for my crippled knee either. You guys are great, I really needed to read what you had to say today. It tied up alot of loose strings for me. I have alot of the symtoms you mentioned in your articles. I won't take up any more of your time, but thanks. Sincerely, Scott Rose

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Dear Sir, I was so happy finding your web page. I have had hepatitis c now for 32 years. I got it in boot camp in 1971, and presently I am waiting form my appeal with the va. I have been very sick for several years now. If you get a moment please look up in you search on the internet Scott Rose mosaic artist and look under beauty tips or look at the hepCconnection web site listed under beauty tips. The AP did an article about me and the service and hepatitis. Please read it, some people say they get the site easy some say they cannot find it. My thyroid went out a few months but I was finally able to get to a specialist who put me on thyroid pills I think it has made a world of difference having my thyroid funtioning somewhat again. The hep c has been terrable. I have had severe bone loss in the verterbra in my back, my kidneys cloted up terrible, thought I was dead. Everything started falling apart about 20 years after I was infected. When I was in boot camp in SanDiego I had a bad reaction to a jet injector innoculation and a few weeks later I was on an eight hour leave and got a tatoo of an American Eagle with USN in a banner on it. I don't know if it was the tatoo or the injector shot, but my eyes got yellow and I felt like I had the flue real bad. I only had a week left in training before a two break leave, so I mostly healed up on leave at home. The yellow in the eyes stayed for about three weeks or four weeks and went away. The flu like symtems also went away. So I figured it was just a taste of the California flu, I was wrong. I have been trying to get information for my claim with the VA, I am suppose to hear from an ajudacation officer and my attorney on a three way call. I haven't got a call yet, the va says they think around March or so maybe. I hear maybe alot from that direction. I hope they hurry up, I have been waiting for a rateing for many years now. I was discharged from the service on an Honoralbe Discharge under medical conditions, I dislocated my knee in the line of duty and had to put it back together myself (my doctor thinks I have a triumantic stress problem from doing that), but I have never recieved anything for my crippled knee either. You guys are great, I really needed to read what you had to say today. It tied up alot of loose strings for me. I have alot of the symtoms you mentioned in your articles. I won't take up any more of your time, but thanks. Sincerely, Scott Rose

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Hello: (codestar72003@yahoo.com) I've receintly completed 48 weeks of pegasys chemo theripy in treatment of HepC, Geno 1B. My memory is not up to par as yet. The treatment has left me with arthritis and numbness and tingeling in my fingers and toes. During treatment My teenage daughter and I lost our home to a greedy partner because I wasn't capable of defending our rights in court. I was lately denied disability from the VA, their reasons were that I was a drug addict and had too many tattooes. I may have experimented with drugs in the military in the early 70's but I am not and never have a drug addict! I did however receive 17 airgun shots in a 2 hour period in preporation for a "Show of force" tour on the other side of the world in 1972 abourd a guided missle destroyer. I did not nor do I now have a tattoe anywhere on my body. I do have broken bones that ache from the military though. I swear, In my parusal of the internet during my treatment I saw awards given for tattoed Veterans with Hep C and Drug related as well, If you can remember any of these I can copy for my apeal I'd apreaciate it. Thanks.........Chris

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I served 12 years in the US Army. I entered basic training in May 1987. I realize that I am probably younger than most Vets posting here but I really believe time will change this as vets are tested. My employeer(previous) has a strict policy on medical exams. I felt great with no symptoms. I went through the physical and was immediatly terminated due to high liver enzymes AST 220 Alt 440. I then went to my family doctor and tessted positive for hep c. I made over $120,000 a year before this happened six months ago. I have lost my home, my car and now live in a mobile home. I am unemployed. I have never used "illegal drugs" have been with the same woman (my wife now) since I was 12, I am now 36. I have never had a blood tranfusion. When I told my doctor at VA that the only way I could have contacted HEP C was through the military "air gun shots" He rushed me out of the office and I hadn't been able to get an appointment since (4 weeks ago). Strangley, I was admitted to the hospital for 4 days three weeks after receiving the shots with "unexplainable" high fever. This was the only time I have ever been in the hospital.

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Served in US Army May 1987-1999. Desert Storm Vet 36 years old Hep C positive. No illegal drug use, no blood transfusions, no tattoos. No prostitutes. NOTHING but “airgun shots” on my record. I also got very sick 3-4 weeks after receiving shots in basic training. No symptoms, had extremely high liver enzymes on routine physical. Later tested positive for Hep C. Noticed on my ETS physical (three years ago) there was no liver tests performed...??? Not going through treatment until I can hopefully be treated by VA. I have no job or insurance. Full time student. If you want to send e-mail please do so at jpinge@excite.com.

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I have a cluster of medical problems which could be related, however, a "conclusive cause & effect" relationship has been elusive. I have Hepetitis C and stage one cirrhosis of the liver; a rare auto-immune disease, polymyositis; diabetes; and heart disease (with double bipass surgery) and I'm 50 years old. I've just become 100% disabled from my work as a training & implementation manager for the State of Oregon. I'm now unable to afford health insurance and the VA has awarded me 20% service-related disability (diabetes). I am a Vietnam Vet who had oral surgery in country (and in the States while still in the Army) and was innoculated with air guns. I was a participant in a CDC Agent Orange study in 1984 which revealed elevated liver enzymes at that time (consistent with Hep C). Contact Info: Gregory Enns Silverton, Oregon ennshouse@yahoo.com

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Feb.10,2004 update to my previous statement: My name is Scott Rose email:legendsofstone@wmconnect.com I had commented on your web site about a week ago and I asked anyone who wanted to read an atricle from the hepCconnection in Denver to do so. The article was written by Mark Lusky AP, www.hepc-connection.org/newsletter/10-12_03/destinie.shtml I hope you all had a chanch to read it. Well the government is finally getting around to my appeal I guess I have 60 days to submit any further evidence to support my case on service connected hepatitis c, the case is going to be re-opened at Ft. Harrison near Helena,Montana at the regional office. I just wanted to add something that my be of some importance to some of you who have been trying to dig up all the necessary items to make the case well grounded. Reciently I was able to obtain the coroners report on "Terrible Terry the Tattoo Artist". Terry had a mobile tattoo service in the late 60's through the 80's and speciallized in beautiful military tattoo's. He traveled to many military towns and bases from San Diego all the way up to Washington, mostly around the coastal sites. I got a tattoo of a beautiful eagle with a banner around it with U.S.N. inside the banner,beautiful colors of blue and red ect. A friend of mine from the Marines got a dagger tattoo with a banner around it that said "Death before Dishonor". Well it appears from the autopsy report cause of death heart failure and at the time of his death he had been a know heroin user for over 30 years and his liver was inflamed with cirrosis and in plan flat out english Hepatitis C. So if anyone out there reading this statement recieved a tattoo from Terrible Terry there is a serious connection to chronic Hepatitis C. It would appear he had gotten so sick towards the end of his days that he also recieved SSI for Hepatitis C. I am sure he did not know at the time he was giving everyone he tattooed Hep C, but back in those days they did not have any testing for Hep C, not until the 1990's. He did not intentionally give thousands of people Hep C and the people who did get military tattoos from him did so, not out of misconduct but because they were proud to have such beautiful artwork of their service to our country so everyone could see they were the American Armed Forces. I know the eagle I have on my shoulder means alot to me, many memories good and bad. It is a rememberance to me of a time in my life, a passage of my life when I was willing to lay my life down for my loved ones and my country if I had to. I did not know at the time it was a tattoo of Death and suffering furthur down my life line. I did not know it was a death sentence. It was an accident of nature, just like the Jet Injectors, they were an accident, not intentional-but it happened. Thank you for your time, I know how precious time is. I hope this information will help someone tuned in, we all must stay tuned in and stick together and the government will have to listen to the ones who protected this great country of ours.

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paplaw@hotmail.com Date: 02/13/04 On September 17, 2003 I received a positive decision from the VARO in Roanoke in regards to my claim for disability of HCV and related illnesses including cirhossis. I did this withou having to appeal any negative decision from the VARO, yes the VARO said yes on the first try. Of course this came from years of fighting with the VA over a previous claim thought to be unrelated. What I learned is that you have to be responsible for your own case management. Get the doctors to write thier opinions in VA legal terms not medical terms. If the code says "constant" do let the doctor write "continual" because the VA reads the code in an objective and subjective manner. Research former BVA and COVA opinions on HCV and after service diagnosis. Make sure your dcoumentation meets this criteria. The DVA, VFW, etc. are good for questions, but are too overwhelmed to really get as personally involved with a case as the Veteran can and should. I found during my first go with my non-HCV claim that after the final BVA decision, my lawyer was my best friend. Her 20% was well worth I, and she wrote one of the most magnificent briefs. My doctor told me what was medically wrong and how he believed in his medical opinion the disease was transmiited. I provided the "legalese" and he wrote a brilliant letter. The VARO did not have a leg to stand on. Especially since he was an adjunct on the residency training program at the VA Medical Center. This claim was granted 100% total and permenant twenty-seven years after my discharge. This result was a direct result of my research and dilligence. Do not rely on anyone else. I convinced the VARO with my Doctor's help that my HCV was a result of air-jet innoculations in 1978-1979. However, I had to scour my medical records for symptoms to support this and show my doctor. If I could succeed then all Veterans with true service-connected HCV can suceed. I will answer a few questions each by e-mail( I hate typing) or will phone if number is provided. I will not, however, do your work or resarch. Please remember, I too am very sick and can not dedicate my life to your claim. Best wishes to all. Patrick

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I would like to thank Mrs. Lupole and her people for this site and posting my information at " Save Dr. Cecil's Clinic".Most of us with Hep C have had no help recieving treatment.I was force to seek treatment outside Lexington,Kentucky's VAMC.I found treatment elsewhere and now that I am virus free hopefully I can help someone else.I believe the University of Kentucky and Lexington's VAMC have a no-treatment stance,recieved $40,000 from the Veterans Administration last year for my High Risk Hep C,and spent none of it on me.Now I understand what is happening here.What I don't understand is why we still have U.K doctors?The Va Office of Inspector General's 2000 Assement Review of Lexington's Va Medical Center shows that the University of Kentucky billed us for services not rendered.Billed us for doctors that were not present at our hospital.No one has been charged and I can find nowhere our money was repaid.A vetern with a discharge under honorable conditions is eligible for treatment at your local VAMC.A civilian with Hep C is also.If I can help anyone please contact me.I do not open E-mails from anyone I am not familiar with.You are welcome to call or mail me first and then we can communicate online.There is treatment for those of us with this monster.I am past the guilt and shame I first had and if I do not help others I am as the people the withhold treatment from us. Michael Reeves 209 Broadview Dr. Lexington,Kentucky 40505 859-252-6213 days 859-252-6008 eenings

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I am a 100% Service-Connect Vietnam Veteran. I was diagnosed with PTSD, Panic Disorder, and I do not know what else? I was diagnosed with HCV in 1992. After coming home for Vietnam in 1970, in 1971 me and two friends went to donate blood! I was told that I had "a non-classified form of hepatitis!" My two friends were ok, they never had to go to Vietnam! When I was told this, I asked the Dr. what this meant? He said that it was a form of hepatitis which Medical Science did not know what it was! That was all he could tell me. I had no symptoms and was not sick so I did not seek Medical help. In 1992 I had a General Medical Physcial at a VA Outpatient Center and had routine blood-work done. The next time I saw my General Dr. I was told that I had Hepatitis C! I ask the Dr. how bad it was? I stated that I was not sick! The Dr. told me that my liver panel tests were elevated and not at the normal levels! I asked him how much were the liver panel tests elevated? He told me about 20% to 30% but that they varied from one to another! I was also told that now was the time for me to take Interfon Treatment! I asked the Dr. what this treatment was all about, and he told me. I turned the treatment down becaause of the many "Life-Threatning," side effects!!!! Then acouple of years later I moved from that State to another State, and went to another VA System. At this VA Out-Patient Center I was re-tested for HCV! To my surprise I was told that I did not have HCV! They tested me 4 times within a period of six months! I them saw a General Dr. with that VA Center and I told him what had happened, he then ordered more blood tests and this time the blood tests went to a private lab, as this Dr. was located in a private building in my home town and not at the VA Out-Patient Center, but he was still working for the VA System! This was setup for mostly older Vets, but since it was closer to my house I was allowed to go there for treatment! When I saw the Dr. again at my next appointment, he told me that the results of my blood tests were back and that I did indeed have HCV! I asked him about my ALT, AST, and Virul Load levels and he said that he only had info. showing that I had Hepatitis C, and that my liver panel tests were elevated showing inflamation in my liver! Then acouple of years later I moved again to another State! So, I had to go to the Local VA Hospital and check in and the whole 9 yards! When I saw the General Dr. that they made an appointment for me with, I asked her about the HCV! That VA System did more blood-work and comfirmed that I had HCV. I was again offered "The Poison!" I refused the liver biopsy and Interferon Treatments! I have found a wonderful "Life-Saving Web Site!" It is all natural treatment for HCV and there are no side effects! There are many persons who have been totally cured of HCV and their blood-work is on file! This is a "Non-Profit Organization!" The person who runs this had cancer and HCV, spent a lot of money taking all of the treatments that his Doctor's told him to take, and ended up bed-ridden and was told that he would die soon! They gave him up for dead! Well, this man is alive today and free from Cancer and HCV! He has written a book about his experience and how he discovered all of the natural elements he took to get well! Now this man is busy helping others who are sick with HCV to get well! There are many testimonies on his web site and blood tests included! Several have been HCV "Non-Detected," in a few short months! Then there are the horror stories of what Interferon and Pegatron has done to destroy people's health and lives! This is a "Non-Profit Business!" If anyone who has HCV is interested in getting well, then visit this web site! www.hepatitiscfree.com

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Ray Howard 71/75 Ray2Vet@aol.com non-combat But had air injector guns used, was cover with someones else blood on arms and neck, had human waste spilled on me a number of times went on S--t detail putting it in a 2 1/2 ton and unload to burn,used razors of other, had abcess teeth drain on 5/6 times ,had cyts drained and o ring put in neck for them to drain on more than once , in my heart and feeling I know the hep c I was told of 2/2003 can from my time in US Army Now about to start on the shoot program if I can stand it Good luck Brothers with those with Hep God Bless if this should not be presumed service-connected nothing should but we do not have a voice and the group is large Later

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July 6, 2003....I'm only too happy to try and help. My name is Nadia Alvarez. My husband was a Marine in the Vietnam War from 1971 thru 1974. Serving both in the Asian Theatre and state side. He never questioned his country while serving her. He was very proud and honored to have served. The pain, heartache and hell that our family has suffered and continues to suffer is injust. It proves that the Vietnam War is far from over. The difference between now and then is geographically. Our vets at least had a chance in Vietnam, here with the VA they have NO chance. They have been given a DEATH sentence...HEPATITIS C. It's appalling to watch how the vets are treated when walking into a VA facility. The VA has the gall to place signs stating that each vet will be treated with RESPECT, ACCOUNTABILITY, INTEGRITY and PROFESSIONALISM. That in itself is a JOKE. I'm so sick of hearing and reading that the VA is "fulfilling a grateful nation's promise to those who have served." Murderers, rapist and animals are treated better than a VETERAN. Why, you must be wondering am I so angry with the VA. My husband was treated in the private sector for HCV. Unfortunately we lost our health coverage and had no other choice but to go to the VA. NEVER once was he offered treatment for his HCV. We were told that he was doing fine and it was just a matter of monitoring. (July 2002) Being a paper keeper and well versed with Hepatits C, I began to request all of his records. Liver Functions were very questionable. And then there's the AFP levels. I was told that having a 143 AFP was only slightly elevated, nothing to worry about. (0 - 8 ref range) I can't begin to stress enough that all of you need to demand for this test to be performed. It can mean life and death. The RUQ pain was only gallstones, again nothing to worry about. Needless to say, I raised hell, got a US Senator and US Congressman involved in order to have my husband treated or at least diagnosed properly. If you've ever been treated in a VA System , you know what a joke that can be. Once again, I raise hell and finally a liver biopsy is done..... nothing to worry about, just a small "hotspot" there in your liver, it's probably an amebia you picked up in Vietnam and we're just now able to see it. I continued to demand that more test be done. A liver biopsy was performed and "normal liver biopsy." (Dec 2002) As I watched my husband get sicker I continued to demand more test, February 21, 2003 a death sentence was given, HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA (Primary Liver Cancer) due to HCV. My husband was finally refered to Oncology in April 2003. Needless to say, my husband lost his life,(May 29, 2003) all thanks to the VA. FAILURE TO DIAGNOSE, FAILURE TO PREVENT SURGICAL INTERVENTION, LATE DIAGNOSIS, DIMINISHED CHANCE AND MISDIAGNOSIS. Did/Has my husband ever recieve SERVICE CONNECTION for HCV.....NO.... I have tried for almost 7 years and each time I'm given a different reason as to why the claim is denied.(The most recent on May 6, 2003, stating that a VA doctor had put in his record that it was his opinion that the HCV had to have come from a blood transfusion. Funny thing is, my husband has NEVER had a blood transfusion.) I have supplied the VA with their own records that connected my husband's HCV to his time in the service. My husband has been gone for a little over 5 weeks now. I promised him that his and other vets deaths would not be in vane. So therefore, I plan to continue my crusade against the VA. I plan to hold them accountable for the death of my husband and all other vets who have passed from HCV and for those whom are LIVING with HCV. The VA and our government should be held accountable for placing each wife, husband and child at risk. Each family should be compensated from the time HCV was diagnosed andgiven 100% service connection. For those vets whom have passed, the VA should service connect each one as well and compensate thier surving spouces and children. This deadly disease should be an automatic presumptive disease. Each VA doctor should be held accountable for his/her performance. It's unacceptable that a VA doctor can not be held accoutable for ANY type of wrong doing. As to the VA having funding. Have you walked into a VA facility and seen the waste or the employees just sitting on their lazy rears? The VA itself is responsible for wasting and the lack of funds. In conclusion....It's my belief that the VA and our government is refusing to acknowledge or accept responsibilty for HCV, the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, etc of our veterans. Thye're hoping if they wait it out long enough they'll all be DEAD.