L-R: Gracing the seminar were Janet Pearl (Actor's Fund), Crayton Robey (ADRLF), Nirah Johnson LMSW( Dept. of Health Community Projects Specialist), Graham Murray (Guest Speaker) and Cara J. Dav id (ADRLF)

A day of awareness goes a long way, especially after the success of ADRLF’s “Do You Know Your Status? A Hepatitis Awareness Training Seminar” held last Friday September 23, at The Dorothy Ross Friedman Residence in New York.

Facilitating the seminar was Nirah Johnson, LMWSW, Community Projects Specialist of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

Ms. Johnson kicked off the event by outlining the current state of hepatitis in the United States, where 4.4 million Americans live with the disease, making it the leading cause of liver cancer. In New York, about 108,000 persons are infected with Hepatitis B alone. While numerous efforts are made in developing vaccines and treatment, liver transplant still remains to be the best remedy. However, to date there are 17,000 people on the liver transplant waiting list, and only very few are given the opportunity to have this procedure.

Ms. Johnson gave a brief and concise overview of the liver’s function as the body’s filter and warehouse, and how it can be damaged and inflamed by toxins, fats and other stressors. She exposed a dangerous truth about our livers– that the liver, in some instances,  can take in up to 75 percent damage before showing any external symptom, such as soreness and jaundice.

While there are different types of hepatitis, Johnson explained that Hepatitis A can be prevented through vaccination. Hepatitis B and C, however, can become chronic and fatal, especially for people with weak immune systems.

Following Johnson’s informative session, volunteers shared their experiences of loss; some had lost loved ones to liver cancer. These testimonies beautifully complimented Johnson’s biological discussion, providing personal accounts of the battle against cancer.

Ms. Johnson closed the seminar by repeating the call for awareness – reminding us that the advocacy against liver cancer starts with each one of us taking the bold step to be fully informed and screened.

If you missed this seminar, make sure to stay updated with ADRLF’s upcoming events. Take on the challenge – Be informed against liver cancer. “Screen. Vaccinate. Don’t Hesitate.”

-Toni Bacala