(NAPSI)—Gregg Allman—Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and founding member of the Allman Brothers Band-began to feel very fatigued a little over a decade ago. After a visit with his doctor, Allman received unexpected news: He’d been living with chronic hepatitis C for years.

Allman waited to get treated, and-when he was treated—his treatment failed. He ultimately had to have a liver transplant. It was a long road for the rock legend, but he received strong support from friends, family and his fellow musicians. He also talked to other people with chronic hepatitis C.

“In the beginning, I didn’t tell anyone because I wasn’t sure what people would think, but then I decided to share it with my friends and family,” said Gregg. “I was surprised and grateful for all the support I received. It was amazing to me how many people came forward to say that they had chronic hepatitis C, too.”

Now, just one year after his surgery, Allman is doing well both personally and professionally. He’s once again writing music and touring the country, and he’s chosen to lend his voice to the Tune In to Hep C campaign, a national public health initiative sponsored by Merck and the American Liver Foundation, to educate people about the disease and the importance of taking action.

Take Action: Doing Nothing Is Not An Option

Allman’s message is clear: If you think you might have chronic hepatitis C or if you’ve already been diagnosed, it’s important to talk with your health care provider about your options.

“I hope others can learn from my experience. I want to inspire people to take action and encourage them to take the next step. It’s not always an easy one to take. I’m glad I did it. Doing nothing is not an option when you’re living with chronic hepatitis C.”

Approximately 3.2 million Americans have chronic hepatitis C. It is the leading cause of cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and if left untreated, it can lead to end-stage liver disease and liver cancer.

For more information about chronic hepatitis C and the Tune In to Hep C campaign, visit www.TuneInToHepC.com.

 

INFC-1016529-0000 11/11

On the Net:North American Precis Syndicate(NAPSI)