User:Banch1965/sandbox

The Hep C Nomads Forum is a free internet resource for those infected with, or affected by, the Hepatitis C virus. Founded on the second of December 2007 by Hep C veterans John and Chrissie Semple and working in association with both the British Liver Trust and the Hep C Trust (UK), it serves to provide information, support, encouragement and hope to any person whose life has been touched by HCV or HBV. It is necessary to register on-line to join the Hep C Nomads which can be done in full anonymity depending on individual choice. Members are known by their nick names and generally upload avatar images to personalise their space in the domain.

Despite originating in the UK the Forum continues to attract members from a range of English speaking countries worldwide and its global membership continues to grow daily.

The Forum is also active in the area of campaigning on issues surrounding HCV awareness at all levels, Government, Media and the public at large.

Perhaps the most significant public event organised through the Nomads was the 'Wedding of the Year' - see link for details:

[1]The Times Online

In addition during the summer of 2008 a series of 'heppers' picnics were arranged across the UK bringing those affected together and to spread awareness to the wider general public through the distribution of information, leaflets and free hugs. The Forum continues to actively organise social events serving the dual purpose of uniting those affected in a positive and caring environment whilst continuing to spread the message that HCV is a serious, treatable, condition which many people at large remain unaware of. The sobering statistics for the very low diagnosis rates (cite stats.) against the large demographic likely to be unknowingly affected illustrate the vital importance of the aim of the Forum, and its members, in combating stigma and ignorance related to HCV infection, transmission and treatments.

The Nomads have their own publicity poster which can be feely printed and used from the link below:

[2] Nomads Poster

Hepatis C knows no boundaries and cuts across all social, economic and racial groups yet the discovery that you may be affected can be a frightening and lonely experience. Treatment success is improving significantly but the process can be lengthy and not without a range of difficult side-effects. For anyone currently on anti-HCV medication there is a wealth of support and knowledge available from the Forum and its dedicated volunteer membership, which at the last count included three doctors (two of whom are practising HCV Consultants), one dentist and and at least two Hepatitis C nurses.

The Forum is free, unmoderated and open to all comers. In addition to discussions of conventional treatment it features a 24 hour chat room, a 'Herb Garden' for those interested in or going down alternative treatment paths, nutritional advice and a concise reference section featuring the results of the latest accredited scientific studies. There is even an Hep C Singles area for those seeking partnership or romance. In addition the Forum has occasional guest speakers - including doctors and other experts- who will answer specific questions from members.

The HepC Nomads Forum promotes individual support groups worldwide and could help anyone seeking more information on the issues surrounding the condition make contact with people near them, and welcomes submissions from all groups and organisations active in area of support and awareness.

The site is located at [3] The Forum