Illinois Chapter - Spring 2007 LIFE Newsletter

Illinois
Chapter
20458_ALF Newsletter.qxd
Alfred Baker, MD
John Brems, MD
S. Martin Cohen, MD
Scott Cotler, MD
Amanda DeVoss, PA-C
Steven Flamm, MD
Daniel Ganger, MD
Jeffrey Goldman, MD
Donald Jensen, MD
Alan Koffron, MD
Mary Kozlowski, RN
Nancy Leone, RN
J. Michael Millis, MD
Ken O’Riordan, MD
Nikunj Shah, MD
Kathleen Shortridge, RN
David Van Thiel, MD
James Williams, MD
Monique Williams, RN
Rockford Yapp, MD
Hon. Jesse White
Estella Alonso, MD
Chari Aweidah
Andrew Enschede
Pat Gaddis, RN
Dennis Gleason
William S. Hackney, III
Mary Ellen Hanrahan
Michael Kardas
Roberta Kramer
Thomas J. Layden, MD
Patrick Lynch, MD
Michael B. Manuel
J. Michael Millis, MD
Nancy Reau, MD
Michael Reschke
David A. Sherman
Carolyn Smeltzer, RN, EdD
Giuliano Testa, MD
Frank J. Uvena
Charles R.Walgreen, III
Elizabeth M.Weil
Rockford Yapp, MD
Hank Zemola
National Helpline 800-GO-LIVER (800-465-4837)
180 N. Michigan Ave. Ste 1870, Chicago, IL 60601
tel: 312-377-9030 | fax: 312-377-9035
www.illinois-liver.org
Co-Chairs
Giuliano Testa, MD
Pat Gaddis, RN
Donald M. Jensen, MD, President
Daniel E.Weil, Vice President
John B. Schwemm, President Emeritus
Page 1
Medical Advisory Committee
9:50 AM
Board of Directors
3/14/07
Non-Profit
Organization
US Postage
PAID
American Liver
Foundation
Jacqueline A. Dominguez
Executive Director
Elyse E. Barson
Community Events Manager
Brandon M. Combs
Program Manager
Allison R.Warner
Administrative & Events Assistant
Staff
Ana Grzybek
Adrienne Houghton
Christine Kelly
Rebecca Long
Rohit Satoskar, MD
Karin Schwab
Clayton Schaefer
William T.Warmouth
Ashley Webb
Laura Wilson
William S. Hackney, III, President
Jill Sperling, Vice President
Lucia Girolamo, Secretary
Michael Gleason, Treasurer
Junior Board
2
5
6
7
Junior Board Comes of Age
Chicago Wolves
Upcoming Events
13
2006 Education Highlights
15
16
Membership
Board & MAC Listing
Clinical Trials Insert
15
Liver Centers
Kids Section/Support Groups 14
10-12
Special Marathon Section
Walk/Run The Next Generation 8-9
4
Board of Directors
Christopher Kennedy Lawford:
Hepatitis C Symposium
3
Nutritional Health and
Liver Disease
In This Issue
For more details on
the Run For Research
Team see Special
Marathon Section
on Page 10.
Continued on page 2
Sigal, from the New York Weill Cornell Medical Center, and colleagues at the Mount Sinai School of
Medicine in New York, tested their theory in 65 patients from a liver transplant program, who had HCVrelated cirrhosis.
Dr. Samuel H. Sigal and colleagues theorize that diabetes predisposes a cirrhotic patient to hepatic
encephalopathy and its exacerbation by increasing ammonia levels as a result of delayed emptying of contents of the stomach and slowed intestinal motility contributing to bacterial overgrowth. Constipation
often precedes the development of hepatic encephalopathy.
Hepatic encephalopathy is a complication of cirrhosis of the liver. Toxic substances like ammonia that
accumulate in the blood and impair the function of brain cells are believed to be contributing factors.
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - In patients with cirrhosis of the liver due to infection with hepatitis C
virus (HCV), the presence of diabetes is associated with earlier onset and greater severity of liver or
"hepatic" encephalopathy, according to results of a prospective study.
Diabetes May Worsen Liver Encephalopathy
National
News
Clinical Trial Research:
Marathon weekend festivities were kicked off at the Health and Fitness Exposition held at McCormick Place on
Friday, October 20th & Saturday, October 21st. The Exposition included: packet pick up, runner's services &
information, 60 participating charities, including an ALF booth, and over 150 exhibitors featuring the newest
designs in running apparel as well as the latest developments in sports, fitness and nutrition.
Continued on page 10
For the sixth year, The American Liver Foundation, IL Chapter's Run for Research Team was one of sixty charities affiliated with the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon. With over 90 runners hailing from the west coast to the
east coast, the Run for Research Team, not only created awareness about liver diseases, liver health and organ
donation, but raised a record $150,000 to help fund liver disease research.
By: Elyse Barson
2006 Run for
Research Team
Raises Record Funds for Disease Research
Liver Information
For Everyone
American Liver Foundation
Illinois Chapter
3/14/07
9:50 AM
Page 3
The Illinois Chapter is extremely excited
about our next endeavor to fulfill our mission! On Wednesday, May 2, 2007, we will
be traveling to Springfield, IL to advocate for
increased awareness and funding of hepatitis
programs and support. We are inviting all of
our membership to participate on behalf of
people with viral hepatitis. For more information, please call Brandon at 312-377-9030 x13
or email brandon@illinois-liver.org.
May 2nd is
Viral Hepatitis
Awareness Day!
PAGE 2
Serum carotenoid levels can be obtained as a costly blood test and are not typically ordered because it is seldom covered by
insurance. However through a method know as Raman Spectroscopy, carotenoid levels can be measured non-invasively. A
device is used to shine light through the skin (typically the palm of the hand). The light interacts with carotenoid molecules
in the skin causing them to vibrate and thereby reflecting back light at a greater wavelength. The device is able to read the
amount of reflected light and generate a quantitative analysis of the body's skin carotenoid level.
Continued on page 3
The liver has a role in our body's "waste management system" that detoxifies harmful substances and is a key contributor to
our immune system. The capacity to regenerate along with the ability to function even in a diseased state is remarkable.
Still, the cell structure is dependent upon essential levels of antioxidants to off-set the large numbers of free radicals present
in our bodies.
Although free radicals are the by-product of cell metabolism, our environment exposes us to many more. Pollution and food
additives are the biggest contributors. Aside from the ever-growing problem of obesity, the processed foods we consume outweighs our intake of the nutritional foods rich in antioxidants. This affects all body systems and organs, especially the liver.
Free radicals are unstable molecules that seek to bind with other "stable" molecules, making them unstable. This process is
known as oxidative stress. The resulting damage affects the way cells replicate. When the DNA, or the genetic code of the
cell becomes abnormal, it can set the foundation for diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. It also
impacts the immune system and lowers the body's defense against attacks from bacteria and viruses. Free radicals also contribute to the aging process.
Human studies for the past 25 years have shown that 5-9 servings of foods rich in carotenoids can help prevent chronic disease. Carotenoids are naturally occurring organic pigments found in plants. Blueberries, tomatoes, squash and other darkcolored fruits and vegetables have high levels in various forms. When consumed, their antioxidant properties protect cells
from the harmful effects of free radicals.
It is common knowledge that eating at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day is good for the body. A healthy diet
affects our growth down to every cell and helps to maintain a healthy immune system. We accept this as fact, but recent
technology has provided a way to measure nutritional status in a non-invasive way.
Dr. Stuart Hui, DC, ATC/L
Kelly Hofmann, RN, MSED
Measuring Nutritional
Health and Liver Disease
These findings "emphasize the importance of optimizing diabetic control,"
Sigal's group writes in the American Journal of Gastroenterology. They
caution that their study included only cirrhotic patients with HCV and so
it "should not be interpreted to imply that the presence of diabetes is
invariably associated with hepatic encephalopathy."
Sigal and colleagues found that diabetics had significantly more severe
hepatic encephalopathy, at earlier stages of liver dysfunction, compared
with nondiabetic subjects. However, the investigators discerned no relationship between cirrhosis severity and hepatic encephalopathy.
Eleven (17 percent) had no evidence of hepatic encephalopathy, 33 had
mild hepatic encephalopathy, and 21 had severe hepatic encephalopathy.
Twenty patients had diabetes, including one (5 percent) who had no
hepatic encephalopathy, seven (35 percent) who had mild hepatic
encephalopathy, and 12 (60 percent) who had severe hepatic encephalopathy.
Clinical
Trials Research: Diabetes
continued from page 1
20458_ALF Newsletter.qxd
University of Illinois-Chicago
Medical Center
840 S. Wood Street, MC 787
Chicago, IL 60612-7323
312.996.3800
Transplant Surgeons:
Michael Abecassis, MD
Alan Koffron, MD
Rush University Medical Center
1725 W. Harrison, Suite 306
Chicago, IL 60612
312.942.8910
Hepatologists:
Joseph Ahn, MD
S. Martin Cohen, MD
Gastroenterologists:
Mark Demeo, MD*
Ali Keshavarzian, MD*
John Losurdo, MD*
Karen Sable, MD**
University of Chicago Hospitals
5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC 4076
Chicago, IL 60637
773.702.2394
Hepatologists:
Donald Jensen, MD
Smurti Mohanty, MD
*also sees patients at the Oak Park office
A=Aurora; E=Evanston; LF=Lake Forest
**has offices in Highland Park and Skokie
Transplant Surgeons:
Forrest Dodson, MD
Transplant Surgeons:
J. Michael Millis, MD
Giuliano Testa, MD
Gastroenterologists:
Alasadi Rameeez, MD
Michael P. Jones, MD
Terrence A. Barrett, MD
Peter J. Kahrilas, MD
Alan L. Buchman, MD
M. Rosario Ferreira, MD
John E. Pandolfino, MD
Ikuo Hirano, MD
Christian G. Stevoff, MD
Colin W. Howden, MD
Arvydas Vanagunas, MD
FOR PEDIATRIC MATTERS:
Children's Memorial Hospital
2300 Children's Plaza, Box 57
Chicago, IL 60614
$250
$100
$50
$25
[ ]$50
Email (optional):
)
/
/
–
–
[ ]Other $
PAGE 15
Please return this form to ALF-Illinois Chapter, 180 N. Michigan Ave. Ste 1870, Chicago, IL 60601 or fax to 312.377.9035.
Phone: (
Institutional Membership
Signature:
Exp.Date:
Card Number:
–
[ ] MasterCard
Name As It Appears on Card:
[ ] VISA
[ ]$250
[ ] American Express
[ ]$100
Please charge my gift to my:
[ ]$25
Corporations, Businesses, Notfor-Profits, etc…
Hepatologists, Surgeon’s, GI’s,
Primary Care Physicians, etc…
Physician Membership
Nurses, Social Workers,
Dieticians, etc…
Professional Membership
General Public
Individual Membership
Please accept my contribution of:
Please note: This reference list is for
informational purposes only. The
American Liver Foundation (ALF)
does not, under any circumstance,
recommend particular medical professionals or treatments for specific
individuals. The ALF does not
engage in the practice of medicine.
The ALF Illinois Chapter makes
every attempt to continually update
this reference sheet. Please know it
is not inclusive of all Illinois' hepatologists and/or gastroenterologists.
Rush University Medical Center
1725 W. Harrison, Suite 306
Chicago, IL 60612
312.942.8910
Pediatric Gastroenterologists:
Randolph M. McConnie, MD (A, E)
John D. Lloyd-Still, MD (LF)
Richard H. Sandler, MD (LF)
Pediatric Gastroenterologists:
Ranjana Gokhale, MD
Stefano Guandalini, MD
Peneet Gupta, MD
Barbara S. Kirschner, MD
Pediatric Hepatologists:
Ruba Azzam, MD
University of Chicago Hospitals
5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC 4076
Chicago, IL 60637
773.702.6418
Pediatric Gastroenterologists:
B. Li, MD
Suzanne Nelson, MD
Timothy Sentongo, MD
Pediatric Hepatologists:
Estella Alonso, MD
Karan Emerick, MD
Humberto Soriano, MD
Ricardo Suparino, MD
Peter Whitington, MD
773.880.4354
of the
Illinois Chapter
Local Hepatologists - ALF Medical
Advisory Committee Members
Dr. Jeffrey Goldman
Dr. Patrick Lynch
Elmhurst Clinic
Dr. Rockford Yapp
Advocate Good Samaritan
Transplant Surgeons:
Enrico Benedetti, MD
Jose Oberholzer, MCD
Howard Sankary, MD
Hepatologists:
Scott Cotler, MD
Tom Layden, MD
Nikunj Shah, MD
Gastroenterologists:
Russell Cohen, MD
Charles Dye, MD
Ira Hanan, MD
Stephen Hanauer, MD
Laura Harrell, MD
Sunanda Kane, MD
Jeanette Newton-Keith, MD
Karen Kim, MD
Joseph Kirsner, MD
David Rubin, MD
Carol Semrad, MD
Irving Waxman, MD
Charles Winans, MD
Nancy Reau, MD
Helen Te, MD
Gautham Reddy, MD
Become A Member
Select your membership
level from the list below.
Northwestern Memorial Hospital
675 North St. Clair
Suite 15-250
Chicago, IL 60611
312.695.5620
Hepatologists:
Andres Blei, MD
Transplant Surgeon:
John Brems, MD
Gastroenterologists:
Rani Chintam, MD
Sohrab Mobarhan, MD
Khondker Islam, MD
Thomas Schnell, MD
Michael Klamut, MD
Stephen Sontag, MD
Jack Leya, MD
Edwin Zarling, MD, FACP
Hepatologists:
Sonu Dhillon, MD
Loyola University Medical Center
2160 S. 1st Avenue
Maywood, IL 60153
708.216.0364
Gastroenterologists:
Juan Engel, MD
Marc Fine, MD
Hymie Kavin, MD
Mani Mahdavian, MD
Dean Silas, MD
Gastroenterology & Liver Disease
Specialists (at Lutheran General)
1875 Dempster, Suite 410
Park Ridge, IL 60068
847.318.9595
Hepatologist:
Ken O'Riordan, MD
Hepatologist:
Daniel Ganger, MD, FACP
Steven Flamm, MD
Richard Green, MD
Laura Kulik, MD
Josh Levitsky, MD
Mary Rinella, MD
Chicago Area Liver Centers
Central DuPage Liver Health Center
25 North Winfield Road
Winfield, IL 60190
630.933.5483
3/14/07
9:50 AM
Page 5
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7. stores energy by like a battery.
6. stores Iron and other vitamins
and minerals.
5. makes bile to help digest food.
4. manufactures proteins for
your body to stay healthy and
grow.
3. is essential to your overall
wellness!!
2. is the only organ that can
regenerate.
1. is the largest organ in the
human body.
The Liver:
Winfield
Day: First Thursday of Each Month
Time: 7:00p.m. to 8:30p.m.
Contact: Kelly Hofmann, 630.399.5709
Location: Central DuPage Hospital
25 N.Winfield Rd
Quad Cities
Day:Third Tuesday of Each Month
Time: 6:30p.m. to 8:00p.m.
Contact: Brandon Combs, 312.377.9030 ext.13
Location: First Evangelical Lutheran Church
15th Ave. & 13th St. Moline, IL
PAGE 14
Urbana
Day: Second Wednesday of Each Month
Time: 6:00p.m. to 7:30p.m.
Contact: Penny Shonkwiler, 217.239.7827
Location: Carl Forum
602 W. University, Urbana, IL
Springfield
Day:Third Monday of Each Month
Time: 7:00p.m. to 9:00p.m.
Contact: Don Hunt, 217.789.2182, Ext. 111
Location: Springfield Department of Public Health
1415 East Jefferson, Main Floor Conf. Room
Maywood
Day: First Monday of Each Month
Time: 6:00p.m. - 7:30p.m.
Contacts: Susan Long (708.216.5454)
Location: Loyola Medical Center, Outpatient Center
Third Floor, Urology Waiting Room
2160 S. 1st Avenue, Maywood 60153
Decatur
Day: Fourth Tuesday of Each Month
Time: 6:30p.m. to 8:00p.m.
Contact: Debra Durbin, 217.423.6988, Ext. 1328
Location: Macon County Health Department
1221 E. Condit
Rockford
Day:Third Thursday of Each Month
Time: 6:45p.m. to 9:00p.m.
Contact: Brenda Erwin, 815.391.5100
Odd Months: Harlem United Methodist Church
8401 North Alpine Road
Even Months: Brooke Road United Methodist Church
1404 Brooke Road
If you are interested in starting a support group in
your area, please contact the Illinois Chapter of the
American Liver Foundation at 312.377.9030.
Online Support Group
If interested in the online support group with
ONLINE MESSAGE BOARD, send an email to
brandon@illinois-liver.org.
PBCers
Contact: Ivette Williams, 773.779.7602
or e-mail idw87@aol.com
Fairfield, IA
Day: Monday Evenings
Time: 7:00 PM
Contact: Robert, 641.233.0105
Location: New Life Community Church
500 W.Washington St. Fairfield, IA
Northwest Indiana
Day: Fourth Thursday of Each Month
Time: 6:30p.m. to 8:00p.m.
Contact: Linda Zych, 219.836.3477
Location: Community Outpatient Center
9660 Wicker Boulevard, St. John, IN
Support Groups
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A
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T
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Arlington Heights
Day: First Monday of Each Month
Time: 7:00p.m. to 9:00p.m.
Contact: Brandon Combs, 312.377.9030 ext. 13
Location: Northwest Community Healthcare
Room 1-6 (Across from Auditorium)
800 W Central Rd
L
M
W
C
B
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U
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K
H
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S
the underlined words
ALF Kids
Word Search: Find
20458_ALF Newsletter.qxd
Note:
We presented this material for several
ALF support groups and at the Town
Hall meeting held at Rush University on
September 25, 2006. The opportunity to
check nutritional status with a biophotonic scanner was available. People
responded with a strong interest and
motivation. Several made immediate
changes in diet and some began taking
supplements to increase antioxidant levels. Considering the non-invasive measurement and recommendations for
nutritional changes and supplements,
the potential for further research is evident. Patients who are compromised by
advanced liver disease and/or the side
effects of viral treatments can benefit
from building and preserving cell structure and integrity.
Lawford went on the interferon protocol,
which is quite similar to chemotherapy,
for eleven months. He injected himself
once a week, taking another antiviral,
ribavirin twice a day orally. The medication caused him to lose twenty pounds,
feel like he had a bad flu 24/7 and
depression to the point of contemplating
suicide.
Unfortunately the tests concluded that
he had hepatitis C and a presclerotic
liver with bridging fibrosis. Lawford
needed to undergo treatment if he had
any hope of eradicating this potentially
deadly virus. He went through a period
of doubt and resistance to treatment,
and because of rumors that his condition
was untreatable, he felt quite hopeless.
Lawford explained that over the years,
physicians continued to give him a
renewed sense of his good overall
health. Any prior tests for hepatitis had
come back negative. After going for a
physical in Beverly Hills, one physician
insisted that he be tested for hepatitis c
and undergo a liver biopsy.
in his teen years. In time, Lawford contracted hepatitis A, B and C. Although
Lawford has maintained sobriety for the
past 20 years, it was not until 2001 that
he learned of his hepatitis C.
Source:
Carsten and Burke "Nutritional
Significance and Measurement of
Carotenoids" Current Topics in
Neutraceutical Research Vol. 2 No. 2
pp79-91,2004
Measuring carotenoid levels can be a
strong motivator for increasing fruits
and vegetables in daily diets. For
patients with liver disease, sparing liver
damage and supporting the immune system can provide a better quality of life
and perhaps delay potential effects of
end stage disease and transplantation.
Scores range from 10,000 and below to
50,000 and above. A typical American is
in the range of 18,000. A person with a
high antioxidant level is in the 50,000
range.
PAGE 3
Nutrition Continued:
In spite of his seemingly idyllic childhood, his early life was marked by the
tragic assassinations of his two dear
uncles, Jack and Bobby. He soon succumbed to the drug scene of the 1970's
Born into privilege, son of famed Rat
Pack actor, Peter Lawford and Patricia
Kennedy, sister of John F. Kennedy,
Christopher Kennedy Lawford grew up
with presidents and movie stars as close
relatives and personal friends. He
recalled Marilyn Monroe teaching him
how to do the twist in his living room at
the age of 6. He also shared fond memories of his uncle's announcement of
candidacy for president.
Dr. Rockford Yapp,
member of the
American Liver
Foundation Illinois
Chapter's Medical
Advisory
Committee, and
Christopher
Kennedy Lawford,
actor and author, came together at a free
public symposium sponsored by Roche
Pharmaceuticals and coordinated by the
ALF, IL Chapter on December 13th at
the Hyatt Regency, Chicago to discuss
Hepatitis C.
By Elyse Barson
Kelly Hofmann is a RN and coordinator
for the Winfield ALF support group and
an educator for the American Liver
Foundation Illinois Chapter.
630.399.5709
kellyhof@ameritech.net
Dr. Stuart Hui is a Chiropractic
Physician and Certified Athletic Trainer
specializing in Sports Medicine and
Nutrition. He practices in Naperville and
Elgin and has a special interest in helping patients with liver disease and side
effect management.
847.833.9354 Dr.shui@gmail.com
The ALF strongly recommends consulting your physician regarding any dietary
modifications.
Despite some rocky roads, Lawford feels
privileged to use one of his family's
greatest strengths, their commitment to
public service and to make a difference.
in the lives of those that struggle with
addiction and suffer from hepatitis C.
Lawford discussed his surprise at the lack
of public awareness and understanding about hepatitis A, B and C. He
shared that he initially wrote his book,
Symptoms of Withdrawal: a Memoir of
Snapshots and Redemption, to begin a
career as an author. However, he quickly
realized what a powerful mouth piece
and an advocate he could be for those
affected by hepatitis C and addiction.
Audience members were touched by his
experiences and welcomed the opportunity for a question and answer session.
Despite his extreme discomfort, he
recalled the treatment being a life changing experience. His daily yoga routine
really helped him through this particularly tough time in his life. While he was
fortunate to be cleared of the virus in
only four weeks, he still had to endure a
difficult process to sustain an effective
response.
Public Program Proves that Famous
are Not Immune to Hepatitis C
3/14/07
9:50 AM
Page 7
PAGE 4
In an effort to provide education and resources to a diverse population in Chicago,
the Illinois Chapter partnered with the Chicago Defender newspaper. The Defender
is a trusted source of information for the African American community. They have
challenged African Americans to collectively loose one million pounds over the
course of one year. The Illinois Chapter identified this as a chance to provide liver
wellness information and education at an event where participants are concerned
about their health and wellness. Every month since July, the ALF has hosted a vendor booth at this event providing information, resources and referrals for screenings
to participants. Check us out in May 2007 for the final installment of our partnership with the Chicago Defender and their Million Pound Challenge. See if the community was able to meet the challenge with the help of the ALF.
Are you interested in learning more
about local research?. Check out the
Educational Programs on our website,
www.illinois-liver.org, to review
research articles (layman explanations
for the general public) authored by
the experts on our Medical
Advisory Committee.
Our chapter website,
www.illinois-liver.org, offers
breaking news from around the
globe. We add new content weekly.
We encourage you to use our accredited website as a resource for all of
your liver information.
We are continually searching for professionally networked
Directors and are open to nominations. As is natural for notfor-profit organizations, our director positions are strictly volunteer. Directors do not receive any form of financial compensation. As a matter of fact, they are our most generous donors
in terms of personal dollars and contacts. They are truly helping us make a difference.
We're excited to announce that Dan Weil
will assist Dr. Jensen in the position of
vice president. Mr. Weil, and his wife Liz,
joined our Chapter Board approximately
seven years ago. An example of Mr. Weil's
impact on our success includes chairmanship of our Golf Classic, quadrupling the
event net revenues and securing our first
ever event sponsorship. Mr. Weil is also
the chair of our nominating committee
and spends many hours interviewing
potential board candidates.
Rest assured, we won't be left without an outstanding successor. For the past two years, Dr. Donald Jensen has served as
vice president of the Board. He assumed the position of president on January 1, 2007. Dr. Jensen has been one of our most
ardent supporters for many, many years; encouraging his colleagues and patients to use our resources. We look forward to
further growth especially as he simultaneously serves on the
American Liver Foundation National Board of Directors.
The Illinois Chapter Partners with the
Chicago Defender for the 2006 Million
Pound Challenge
Unbelievably, another two year
cycle is coming to a close. It is
with sadness that we recognize
the culmination of the two year
presidency term of Dennis
Gleason. Mr. Gleason has provided exemplary leadership during
his tenure. He has been instrumental in bringing our events to
new heights and is responsible
for the recruitment of many of
our outstanding Directors. He has
gone as far as demonstrating his
commitment to the Chapter by involving his entire family in
our initiatives-you will find Karen, his wife, a familiar face at
all of our events; he's garnered support from his daughter,
Susan, from as far away as Boston; and his son, Michael, is a
very active member of our Junior Board of Directors. We are
thrilled by the fact that Mr. Gleason will continue to remain
active on our Board.
The Illinois Chapter is tremendously grateful for the enthusiasm, expertise, and dedication of the Directors of our Board.
Each and every member shares a strong sense of responsibility
for our mission of research, education and advocacy for liver
wellness and for those who are affected by liver diseases. They
are largely responsible for the success of our fundraising,
working diligently to populate our events and bring new life
to our organization.
Illinois Chapter Thanks
Dennis Gleason for Two Great Years
20458_ALF Newsletter.qxd
In addition,
guests had the
option of choosing to attend breakout
sessions that allowed for discussion of a
specific topic in a small group led by
medical professionals. Topics included:
Nutrition & Liver Disease presented by
Judith Fitzhugh, Transplantation &
Living Donors, presented by Giuliano
Testa, MD, University of Chicago
Hospitals, Alternative Treatments &
Chinese Medicine, presented by Kelly
Hofmann, RN and Stuart Hui, DO,
Caregivers: Caring for your Loved Ones,
presented by Susan Long,
LCSW, Loyola University
Medical Center, Depression &
Chronic Illness, presented by
Aida Mihajlovic, MD,
NASH/Fatty Liver, presented by
Smruti Mohanty, MD,
Murphy, RN who
shared the Power
of Humor &
Healing.
We hope to see you at our
next Town Hall Meeting.
Check our website for
updates: www.illinoisliver.org or call
312.377.9030.
Attendees expressed positive feedback
through a program evaluation. Guests
were quite impressed by the variety of
topics presented and their opportunity to
discuss questions and concerns with premier liver specialists at no charge.
Attendees were also excited to learn
more about the American Liver
Foundation, IL Chapter's mission and
the benefits to becoming a member of
our organization. Others were eager to
continue their dialogue about liver-related diseases and inquired about joining
one of the Illinois Chapter’s twelve support groups.
University of Chicago, Viral Hepatitis
presented by Josh Levitsky, MD,
Northwestern University.
While eating, 150 attendees listened to
participants from University of Chicago
Hospitals, University of Illinois Medical
Center, Cook County, Loyola University
Health System, Rush University Medical
Center and Northwestern Memorial
Hospital battle over the latest liver-related disease topics.
The evening, sponsored by Premiere
Advocates, which
included: Roche
Pharmaceuticals
and Schering
Plough; Partner Advocates: Damer &
Cartwright Specialty Pharmacy and
Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy; and
Participating Advocates: Axcan
Scandipharm and Gilead began with a
brief networking session between medical professionals, industry partners and
volunteers; followed by a savory four
course meal.
The 2006 Academic Debates, in memory
of Rush University Medical Center
Fellow Kevin Schaefer, was held on
Thursday, November 30th at the Hotel
InterContinental, Chicago.
PAGE 13
Topic #3: Transplantation
Should We Use Marginal Donors for
Otherwise Good Risk Patients with
HCC, Beyond Milan Criteria?
Topic #2: NASH/Fatty Liver
Using Medication to Treat Fatty Liver
Disease: Are we there yet?
Under the direction of mentor, Dr.
Bashar Attar, fellows Dr. Steven Keilin
and Dr. Cory Halliburton from Cook
County discussed advantages of treatment while under the direction of mentor Dr. Sonu Dhillon, fellows from
Loyola University, Dr. Ashish Arora and
Dr. William Levit illustrated disadvantages of treating.
Such Topics Include:
Topic #1: Hepatitis C
Mild Disease on Biopsy for Genotype 1 Treat or do not Treat?
Under the direction of mentor, Dr.
Nancy Reau, fellows Dr. Nidhi Singh
and Dr. Rohit Satoskar from University
of Chicago discussed advantages of
treatment while fellows under the direction of mentor Dr. Jamie Berkes from
University of Illinois, Dr. Eric Kallwitz
and Dr. Samuel Tesfay illustrated disadvantages to treating.
Members of the audience posed compelling questions to
presenters. Fellows
were forced to think
critically about their topics and formulate educated concise answers. They all
did a phenomenal job synthesizing complicated data to form their arguments.
Congratulations to all.
Debate winners
were: Topic #1 Treat, University of
Chicago, Topic #2
- No, Loyola
University and Topic #3 - No,
Northwestern Memorial Hospital. All
participants received a cash prize for
their efforts.
Under the direction of mentor, Dr.
Forrest Dodson, Resident Dr. David Lee
from Rush University discussed advantages of treatment while under the direction of mentor Dr. Michael Abecassis,
fellow from Northwestern, Dr. Paul
Alvord illustrated disadvantages of treating.
Chicago
Area Fellows Battle Over Liver Disease Topics
By: Elyse Barson
The program featured keynote speakers
Nikunj Shah, MD, University of Illinois
at Chicago, who presented Liver Disease
Research Updates, John Brems, MD,
Loyola University Medical Center who
discussed the Development &
Progression of Liver Cancer and Joan
This free program was open to liver disease patients, caregivers and the general
public. Guests enjoyed a complimentary
continental breakfast while networking
with partners and medical professional
industry.
Cancer caused by hepatitis C? Is it possible that smiling and laughing help alleviate symptoms of a chronic disease? What
better place to ask questions than at the
"Exploring Liver Diseases Town Hall
Meeting," held at Rush University
Medical Center on Saturday, September
30th.
What causes fatty liver disease? Is Liver
By: Elyse Barson
Public Education:
Town Hall Meeting Explores an Array of
Interesting Topics
3/14/07
9:50 AM
Page 9
John McWhorter
Keith Klebacha
Aureo Celaya
Jose Oberholzer, MD
Justin Catches
2:58:49
3:08:15
3:14:13
3:18:30
3:18:34
PAGE 12
Karin Martens
Kesha Quigg
Missy Matsas
Michelle Platts
Carrie Dugan
3:39:33
3:54:40
3:54:48
4:02:09
4:05:44
The Illinois Chapter staff looks forward to
meeting additional members of the Dutch
community in Chicago, and working closely with them to help
create awareness about liver related diseases both locally and
internationally.
No matter what country you choose to inhabit, liver diseases
do not discriminate. While the ALF, IL
Chapter has made great strides in creating
awareness and raising funds for disease
research, there is still much to be done.
During a brief speech, Andrew capitalized the importance of
the Dutch giving back to their adopted communities.
Although the Dutchrunners come from The Netherlands, (and
many expect to return there) it is important for them to give
back to their adopted home community, and take an interest
in those issues that affect all of us. Executive Director of the
ALF, IL Chapter, Jackie Dominguez, graciously accepted a
symbolic check from all of the Dutchrunners that amounted to
more than $8,000 to help fund liver disease research.
On the eve of the Marathon, IL Chapter staff was invited by
the Netherlands Club of Chicago and the NetherlandAmerican Foundation Dutch Chicago Business Exchange to
attend a pasta dinner at the Standard Club.
A few years after his diagnosis and recuperation from the disease, Andrew met Jackie Dominguez, Executive Director of the
ALF, IL Chapter. He learned of the opportunity to participate
in the Chicago Marathon and raise funds for disease research
as part of the ALF's Run for Research Team. Andrew decided
that running with his healthy liver would be a great return to
the world of endurance sports in which he participated prior
to his illness, but more importantly a way to create awareness
about liver related diseases.
own in almost all cases. Patients are advised to reduce the pace
of their daily activities to match their loss of energy as well as
maintain a balanced diet with plenty of fluids.
Top 5 Fastest Men & Women
Hepatitis A is likely to occur wherever hygiene may be a problem. Symptoms of Hepatitis A can occur 2-7 weeks after infection with the virus. Low energy is the most common symptom. Medicines are not used to treat infection because the
symptoms are usually mild and the disease goes away on its
Andrew's charity of choice was quite
appropriate. As a result of travels to
Cyprus, he had developed hepatitis A.
A member of the Club and Exchange, Andrew Enschede,
recently ran the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon as part of the
ALF's Run for Research Team. In addition, several other club
members formed a group called the Dutchrunners who ran
and raised funds for worthy causes. Dutchrunners, Andrew
Enschede and Karin Martens, raised more than $7,000 to help
fund liver disease research. In addition, Karin qualified for the
Boston Marathon.
With more than 500 members, the Club
and the Exchange have developed a
strong presence in both business and
social spheres. They organize events that appeal to a variety of
audiences. Such events include: community volunteer activities, cultural events, intramurals, the Dutch American Heritage
Day party, business lunches, symposia and even a running
team - the Dutchrunners.
There are numerous Dutch people living in and around the
Chicago area- and they are very active. Many of them are
members of the Netherlands Club of Chicago (www.dutchclubchicago.com) and the NetherlandAmerica Foundation Dutch Chicago
Business Exchange (www.dcbex.com).
You don't have to travel abroad to enjoy a taste of Dutch culture. Just look out your window, it's available in your own
backyard!
By: Elyse Barson
The Dutch Connection - A Substantial Gift to the Illinois
Chapter from Dutch Chicagoans
20458_ALF Newsletter.qxd
* Participate in regularly scheduled meetings
* Volunteer at the organization's community
fundraising events, health and fitness
esposItions, educational programs and
other activities.
* Coordinate a Junior Board-organized
fundraising event.
* Contribute innovative ideas to help promote
fundraising and awareness of liver diseases, liver health and organ donation.
The Junior Board is an integrated part of
the ALF Illinois Chapter and are dedicated to
helping fulfill our Mission.
Guests munched on appetizers and enjoyed lively music provided by a DJ. Not only did we raise awareness at this event,
we also raised $1,630 to help fund disease research. Join us
next year for the 2nd annual event-it promises to be a great
time! Stay tuned for details.
More than 80 young business professionals gathered with the
Illinois Chapter Junior Board for the Inaugural Summer
Soiree held at Lucille's in Lincoln park last August. Everyone
came together to learn more about the American Liver
Foundation and ways they could get involved and make a
difference in their community.
Sizzling Fun with the Junior Board at
their Inaugural Summer Soiree
This year, the ALF Run For Research Team had over 100 members who have so far raised in excess of $138,000. As is true
with almost every event that the ALF now sponsors, the members of the Junior Board were there, literally every step of the
26.2 mile way. I cannot begin to fully express my deep and
sincere appreciation to each and every member of the Junior
Board for all that you have done to make our Junior Board a
resounding success this year and for laying the groundwork to
continue that success for years to come.
Now, as the year comes to a close, we on the Junior Board can
look back and reflect on just how far we've come. In fact, I am
pleased and proud to report that the Junior Board not only
met, but exceeded, almost every one of its recruitment, participation and fundraising goals this year. We've recruited three
new Junior Board members, begun the annual tradition of a
Junior Board Summer Soiree and through all of our efforts
we've contributed over $16,000 in much needed fundraising
dollars to the ALF. And we're not done yet. The Junior Board
is already discussing increasing its size, creating, organizing
and managing even more Junior Board events and making an
even bigger impact on the ALF next year. It's truly a thrilling
time to be a part of the Junior Board and witness its true
potential.
PAGE 5
I've been volunteering in various capacities with the ALF ever
since. Last year I was elected to the ALF's Board of Directors
and asked if I would consider guiding its relatively new Junior
Board of Directors. I met the existing members of the Junior
Board and witnessed first-hand their dedication to and passion
for the ALF and again my decision was made. With the help of
About four years ago as I prepared to
run my first marathon, I was
approached about running for a
charity. I had never really considered
running the marathon for charity but
the more I thought about it the more
sense it made. I was training and
running anyway, why not help someone else along the way. My search
started with some well-known names
- all of which had hundreds of runners, unknown staff and considerable corporate backing. And
then I came across a smaller charity with just a few runners, a
local staff and that little something extra - that charity was the
Run For Research Team of the American Liver Foundation Illinois Chapter. I'd never been affected by liver disease, didn't
personally know anyone who had been affected by liver disease and didn't know much about liver disease. In other
words, I had no connection whatsoever to the American Liver
Foundation. However, once I met the dedicated and passionate
staff, led of course by the indomitable Jackie Dominguez, my
decision was made. That first year, I was one of 39 runners
that raised a little over $40,000 for liver disease research.
the indefatigable Carolyn Watkins, our main support line at
the ALF, the Junior Board immediately embarked upon a mission to create its own character and chart its own path. We set
lofty but achievable recruitment, participation and fundraising
goals. We developed Junior Board events in addition to the
main events offered by the ALF. We set out to increase awareness of liver disease, the ALF and the Junior Board among a
younger demographic.
Junior Board Comes Of Age
By William Hackney
,Jr. Board President and member of the Board of Directors
3/14/07
Page 11
this season. It is no coincidence that their opening day festivities included an opportunity
for Wolves' fans to donate to the American Liver Foundation, Illinois Chapter. The Chicago
Wolves organization has been a loyal partner of the Illinois Chapter for many years, and
dedicated their opening night to liver wellness.
The Chicago Wolves Hockey Team took the ice on Saturday, October 14th for the first time
Chicago Wolves Hockey Team is Loyal
to Illinois Chapter
9:50 AM
07:00 PM
07:00 PM
07:30 PM
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01/03/2007
01/05/2007
01/06/2007
01/09/2007
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01/17/2007
01/19/2007
01/20/2007
01/21/2007
01/23/2007
01/26/2007
01/27/2007
02/02/2007
02/03/2007
Score
Score
Houston Aeros
@Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights
@Milwaukee Admirals
Peoria Rivermen
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins
Hamilton Bulldogs
Toronto Marlies
@Peoria Rivermen
San Antonio Rampage
Toronto Marlies
@Iowa Stars
@Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights
@Iowa Stars
@Manitoba Moose
@Manitoba Moose
Opponent
02/05/2007
02/07/2007
02/09/2007
02/10/2007
02/11/2007
02/17/2007
02/18/2007
02/23/2007
02/24/2007
02/25/2007
03/03/2007
03/04/2007
03/07/2007
03/10/2007
03/11/2007
D ate
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Time
@Toronto Marlies
@Hamilton Bulldogs
@Hamilton Bulldogs
@Toronto Marlies
Syracuse Crunch
@Houston Aeros
@Houston Aeros
@San Antonio Rampage
Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights
Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights
Hamilton Bulldogs
San Antonio Rampage
Houston Aeros
Milwaukee Admirals
Peoria Rivermen
Opponent
03/14/2007
03/16/2007
03/17/2007
03/23/2007
03/24/2007
03/25/2007
03/28/2007
03/30/2007
03/31/2007
04/06/2007
04/07/2007
04/13/2007
04/14/2007
04/15/2007
D ate
07:00 PM
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03:00 PM
07:00 PM
07:30 PM
06:00 PM
07:00 PM
07:00 PM
07:00 PM
07:00 PM
05:00 PM
Time
Peoria Rivermen
@Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights
Milwaukee Admirals
@Iowa Stars
@Peoria Rivermen
Peoria Rivermen
Manitoba Moose
Milwaukee Admirals
@Grand Rapids Griffins
@Milwaukee Admirals
Grand Rapids Griffins
@Milwaukee Admirals
Iowa Stars
Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights
Opponent
57th Street and Lake Shore Drive
Exhibit: January 17 – April 29, 2007
Regular priced tickets: $23; $19 seniors, $12.75 for children
www.msichicago.org.
PAGE 6
Using the ground-breaking preservation process called plastination, BODY WORLDS 2— the second of three anatomical exhibitions by licensed physician and anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens—showcases more than 200 real human specimens and more
than 20 new full-body plastinates that focus on the locomotive, nervous, respiratory, digestive, cardiovascular and reproductive
systems. The exhibit will run through April 29, 2007. To ensure an enriching experience for all, children under the age of 13
must be accompanied by a responsible adult, parent, guardian or school chaperone while in Body Worlds 2.
As a friend of our organization, you and up to four guests can take advantage of a special discount on tickets to BODY
WORLDS 2. Simply go to www.illinois-liver.org and the coupon is located on the front page of our website.
The American Liver Foundation, IL Chapter has partnered with the Museum of Science and Industry to spread the word about
the Museum's exhibit, Gunther von Hagens' Body Worlds 2: The Anatomical Exhibition of Real Human Bodies. This awe-inspiring
exhibit offers Museum guests another amazing opportunity to investigate the mysteries of human anatomy and physiology.
BODY WORLDS 2 is the sequel to BODY WORLDS which had its Midwest debut at the Museum of Science and Industry in
2005.
Don’t Miss a Second Chance to See Body Worlds!
Time
D ate
have won five division titles, one regular season title, and three league championships. Special thanks to Courtney Mahoney,
Director of Community Relations and Game Operations. She is a pleasure to work with and realizes the importance of creating
awareness about liver disease, liver health and organ donation within the community. She is truly helping us to make a difference.
The Chicago Wolves play at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL for the American Hockey League. Founded in 1994, the Wolves
If you are a hockey fan or simply looking for a family friendly outing, we encourage you to attend a game and cheer the Wolves
to victory. Lets join together to thank the Chicago Wolves for their continued support.
The Chicago Wolves are a community oriented organization. They have generated large
sums of money to support the Illinois Chapter's mission and continue to support our organization by participation in our community events. They sponsor a foursome at our Golf Classic, year after year Skates has entertained children and families at our
Walk/Run and they have given fans an opportunity to support us and learn about organ donation at specific games throughout
the season.
20458_ALF Newsletter.qxd
Summer Edition 06 | PAGE 11
The truth is that we were unaware of the American Liver Foundation, IL
Chapter. It was at the 2006 LaSalle Bank Shamrock Shuffle Health and
Fitness Exposition. when we received a squishy liver in our race goodie
bags that we learned of the ALF, IL Chapter, its mission and our opportunity to run the Marathon and raise money to help fund liver disease
research. It seemed like fate had drawn us together.
In honor and in memory of our Dad, Richard Gustafson, we had decided
to challenge ourselves and join the Run for Research Team. Our Dad
passed away in March of 2006 from Primary Liver Cancer caused by
hepatitis c.
Laurie, Melissa and Rick Gustafson
Chicago, IL
As a result of my illness, I became involved with the ALF, Illinois
Chapter. I ran my first Marathon ever on Sunday, October 22nd as part
of the Run for Research Team. By raising funds for liver disease research,
I have created awareness about my disease and the ALF.
PSC is considered a rare disease and the cause is unknown. It is believed
to be related to genetic and immunologic factors. It is not associated
with an unhealthy life style, such as alcohol or drug abuse. PSC may
occur alone, but in approximately 70% of patients it is associated with
intestinal diseases particularly ulcerative colitis. How PSC progresses
with each patient is unpredictable.
I have Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC). It is a progressively slow liver disease for which there is no cure or a specific treatment. In time, I may need a liver transplantation.
Reese Peck
Naperville, IL
Few who knew my Mom will ever forget her positive energy, endless
optimism, love for others, and her absolute selflessness. On October
22nd, I ran the Chicago Marathon with the ALF's Run for Research
Team in her honor and memory. While this was the second marathon
that I ran in her honor, it will be the first in which my goal was to raise
money for the charity that played a significant role in her treatment.
In September of 2003, my
Mom, "Gigi", passed away as a result of complications from liver disease
at the young age of 67. After contracting hepatitis c from a blood transfusion in 1984, she managed the disease for 19 years before it ultimately
destroyed her liver function and took her life.
David Gwyn
Potomac, MD
A Few Faces of the 2006
Run for Research Team
Run for Research Team Members were
invited to join The LaSalle Bank Chicago
Marathon's Executive Race Director, Carey
Pinkowski, and Group & Charitable
Programs Manager, Kristina Olkowski, at
Sidebar Grille, located on North LaSalle
Street, on Tuesday, September 19th. Team
Members mingled and enjoyed complimentary appetizers and beverages.
Team Social Event
Run for Research Team Members were
invited to join ALF, IL Chapter employee
and Oak Park running club member,
Allison Warner for a 13 mile fun run on
Saturday, September 9th
that began at North
Avenue Beach.
Team Fun Run
5th Year Run for Research Team Member
and top fundraiser, David Brown, led an
audio conference to discuss effective
fundraising strategies on Tuesday, August
21st. Together with Suzanne Muchin,
David has generated over $50,000 to help
fund liver-related disease research.
Team Fundraising Workshop
Volunteers:
Thank you to Elsa Chua, Doug Doolittle,
Robert Herskovitz, Reese & Robin Peck
and Allison Warner who educated guests
about liver disease, liver health and organ
donation.
The IL Chapter participated in the 2006
LaSalle Bank Chicago Distance Classic
Health and Fitness Exposition at the
Hilton on Friday, August 11th and
Saturday August 12th. Our participation in
the Expo allowed us to create awareness
about liver health, organ donation and
successfully recruit runners for our Team.
Many Run for
Research Team
Members used
the race on
Sunday, August
12th as a training
run for the
Marathon.
LaSalle Bank Chicago Distance
Classic Half Marathon
Team Tid Bits...
3/14/07
9:50 AM
Page 13
Richard Bergman
Megan Conner
Doug Doolittle
George Gatto
Kelli Hutchens
Steve Irwin
Kevin Prim
Cheryl Westrick
$1,500
Robert Harland, MD
David Heekin
Jill and Steve Sperling
Jeremy Sullivan
Tip Walker
Suzanne Vince
$2,000
Stacy Conway
Katherine Dudaryk
$2,500
Gina Bailey
Carrie Dugan
Don Sawyer
$900
$1,000
Michael Burns/Team Cermak
Justin Catches
Corey Friedman
Cindy Gates
Henry Gentile
M.J. Guerin
Kelly Hofmann
Barbara Janszen
Keith Klebacha
Kevin Maloney
Meredith Marks
Karin Martens
John McWhorter
Patti Moffett
Jose Oberholzer, MD
Alison Oliphant
Michell Platts
Kelly Pollock
Kesha Quigg
Brad Rourke
Jamie Schmidt
Keith Wolfe
$3,000
Elsa Chua
Mike Gleason
Laurie Kogen
David Walker
All of our Team Members contributed to exceeding our fundraising goal for this
event. However, many went above and beyond the minimum pledge goal…
Thank you to our dedicated volunteers for
making the 2006 marathon weekend a
great success: Dr. Jennifer Beverlin, Justin
Catches, Elsa Chua, Michael Gleason,
Carol & Jim Grimm, Dr. Jennifer Guddall,
Emily Harlow, Bob Herskovitz, Carol James, Michael Kardas,
Rebecca Long, Robin & Reese Peck, Shelley Rodriguez, Clay
& Nicole Schaefer and Jennifer Tedjeske.
Marathon route to provide continued support to
runners during those last few miles. Both ALF
staff and volunteers spotted Run for Research
Team Members in their blue singlets and rallied
them to the finish line with inflatable hands, signage, cow bells and pom
poms.
Thank You to the Run for Research Official Team Sponsors:
Nick Brewer
Robert Herskovitz
$3,500
Reese Peck
$4,000
David Brown & Suzanne
Dave Gwyn
$5,500
Andrew Enschede
Bobby Weil
$6,000
Team Miles for Smiles: Alan Gottleib,
Howard Nevins, Tim McPhillips
$9,000
Carol & Jim Grimm
$12,000
TOP Fundraisers
At mile 22, crowds of spectators lined the curb
side of what once used to be considered a
remote area at the southern end of the
On a brisk Sunday, October 22nd, runners
and their loved ones were invited into a
much needed heated tent, provided by the
ALF, located in the McDonald's Charity
Village in Grant Park. The tent included a
secure gear check and refreshments donated by Clif, Gatorade,
Hinckley Springs and Whole Foods. In addition, complimentary massages were provided for Team Members by Dr.
Jennifer Guddall and Dr. Jennifer Beverlin, from the
Millennium Wellness Group. Photographer Michael Kardas, of
Kardas Photography, captured the spirit of running the
Marathon on behalf of a charitable cause.
2006 Run for Research Team Raises Record Funds for Disease Research
Run for Research
20458_ALF Newsletter.qxd
Our Upcoming Events
PAGE 7
Celebrating Life Spring Benefit and Abstract
Competition 2007
Join us for a peek into the future of ALF! Honor
our community leaders and medical professionals
at the forefront of the fight against liver disease.
Come for an evening of cocktails, hors d’ouerves,
reception, and see the exciting presentation of the
abstract competition. For tickets and more information, contact Carolyn at 312-377-9030 x14
04/24/07
Nursing Management Series: Hepatitis B
Exploring Treatment Options
Further Explore Hepatitis B Treatment Options at
this 1 AMA PRA credit hour program. Join us for
dinner and the presentation. This program is intended
for medical professionals. For more information,
please call Brandon at 312-377-9030 x13.
04/21/07
Viral Hepatitis Town Hall Meeting
Our Annual Hepatitis Town Hall Meeting is back
once again and this time more inclusive, with discussions on hepatitis A, B, and C. Come listen to
Chicago’s premiere hepatologists and transplant
surgeons discuss viral hepatitis, treatments, nutrition, and much more. This program is intended for the
general public.For more information, please call
Brandon at 312-377-9030 x13.
03/31/07
Liver Disease: Beyond the Basics for the Primary
Care Physician
The Illinois Chapter is proud to offer our 2nd
Annual liver disease educational program for the
Primary Care Physicians. This 4 AMA PRA credit
hour program will feature University medical professionals offering informative presentations about
today’s most pressing disease states. This program is
intended for medical professionals. For more information, please contact at 312-377-9030 ext 13.
02/24/07
April: NASH Update
June: Hepatitis C Treatment Update
Topics are:
Join us on the first wednesday of each month at noon
for a new Audio Conference. This program is intended
for medical professionals.Contact Brandon,
312.377.9030 x13 for more information.
Learn Audio Conference
ongoing
Golf ClassiC
Join The American Liver Foundation, IL Chapter
for a round of golf at
The 10th Annual Golf Classic
on Monday, July 16, 2007 at
The Highland Park Country Club.
Golfers will enjoy lunch, 18 holes of golf, (scramble/team format), golf contests, raffles, free gifts,
and an evening reception including awards, cocktails & dinner. Proceeds fund research, education
and advocacy for liver wellness and for those who
are affected by liver-related diseases. For more
information contact: golf@illinois-liver.org or 312377-9030 x15
07/16/07
Viral Hepatitis Awareness Day
The Illinois Chapter of the American Liver
Foundation and the Chicago Hepatitis Task Force
are proud to present the Viral Hepatitis Awareness
Day at the Illinois State Capitol Rotunda, 2nd &
Capitol, Springfield, IL. Join us at 8:30am for
Breakfast and Networking, followed by a 9am presentation, and at 9:30am meet with the legislators. If
you are interested in attending, we may be able to
assist with you travel, talking points & contacting
your legislators. For more information, contact
brandon@illinois-liver.org or call 312-377-9030
x13.
05/02/07
3/14/07
9:50 AM
Page 15
Brianne Bassett
Don Myles
Non Stop Dance Productions
Skates the Wolf
Our top finishers
cruised back in to
enjoy the party and
awards. Congratulations to our top walkers, Belkys Moreno
(29:45) and Felipe
Gardner (38:58) and
The scenery
was calm
and the
walk went
quickly.
Upon everyone's return,
they were
welcomed with goodie bags filled with
treats, and lunch provided by Moo and
Oink. Entertainment was provided by
our new DJ "The Don" and a return performance from the hip hop dance group
Non-Stop Hip Hop Productions. They
added just enough"funk" to the
event to keep people moving
afterwards. Our pet station was
hosted by Dr. Kim Meyers of the
Berwyn VCA where participants
stopped by and picked up their pet
goodie bags. Our kids station was hosted by our own ALF volunteer/magician
Oliver Corpuz and a new attraction for
the kids was our 4 in1 Crayola moon
jump! After the Walk, kids could jump
the day away and play with their new
friends while adults could spin the prize
wheel and win something cool to take
home and enjoy. Let's not forget the
sponsor tables where you picked up a
squishy brain, another treat provided by
our new sponsor Sm@rt Technologies,
who were on hand to help you learn
more about their IT services
PAGE 8
Victoria Benda
Michael Kardas
Willie the Wildcat
Ozzie, Kane County Cougars
Dr. Kim Meyers
The Liver Man
The Moo & Oink Mascots
Seems like a lot right? Well it was and
where else in Chicago can you get this
much family fun packed into one crisp
fall morning all for a good cause? Due
to the hard work of our teams and participants, we raised
more than $64,000AWESOME work! It
takes a lot to plan an
event like this so join
us in thanking our
sponsors. Stay tuned
into ALF, we have
something coming that
will help you Walk "It"
Off with the American Liver
Foundation in 2007 as we enter the next
generation of Liver Wellness! Get those
teams together and I'll see you again
next year!
Congratulations to everyone who helped
out and we thank you all for your diligence and efforts-we can't have this success without your participation.
our top runners who coincidentally are
married Darren (17:57) and Amy Olsen
(23:03). We had a record breaking 39
teams register and amazing teams won
the "Amazing Feet" award: Team Bifero,
Jordan's Journey and Loyola 4 Livers.
They each raised between $2,500 and
$4,999 for the event. Cheri Mauer was
our "Supreme Sole" for the second consecutive year! She was the individual
raising the
highest
amount with
more than
$4,020 in
donations
turned in for the event.
Special Thanks to:
Margaret Shortridge, Fox News Chicago, Emcee
Illinois Chapter Junior Board of Directors
Miss Pre-Teen Illinois ~ Catherine Olsen
A bigger
stage and
more
entertainment is
what we
had in store for you if you were looking
for more fun. We started the day with a
high energy breakfast sponsored by
Jewel Foods. They provided plenty of
fruit, bagels and water to kick start your
day while a new sponsor, Clif Bar, provided plenty of power boost with samples of their new
Shot Blocks and
Mojo Bars. Our
emcee, Fox
News health
reporter
Margaret Shortridge, joined us again for
the event ushering in new faces and old
friends. After a quick and healthy breakfast everyone gathered by the start line
to hear a beautiful rendition of the
national anthem performed by Brianne
Bassett. This kicked off our warm-up
with trainer Don Myles of X-Sport fitness and new to the family, Miss PreTeen Illinois, Catherine Olsen. She
helped us start the race after our countdown by sounding the race horn.
It's not just your average Walk event, the
5K Liver Wellness Walk Run event is a
power packed day of health and liver
wellness where you can find music,
entertainment and fun at every turn.
This event helps raise awareness and
funds for liver disease and liver wellness.
On October 14th at Montrose Harbor,
1,000 participants, some with their dogs,
showed up to help us celebrate a new
location and new fun.
By Carolyn O. Watkins
Welcome to the "Next Generation"
of Liver Wellness
20458_ALF Newsletter.qxd
Cheri is both competitive and driven and she wants to see
PBC erased from our future. She hopes her grandchildren and
others never have to deal with this and she is focused on
helping find a cure. The 5K Liver Wellness Walk/Run event is
Cheri's outlet to help and we welcome her enthusiasm and
spirit. When you see her and Annie on the Walk trail say hi
and know that she is joining others as they take strides
against liver disease.
receive the honor of
"Supreme Sole" being the
highest individual
fundraiser at the event.
In 2005 Cheri won the
award and was surprised,
stating that she would be
back in 2006! As promised, Cheri came back
stronger winning the award for a second year with more than
$4,000 in donations from friends, family and local businesses
in her area. She definitely makes fundraising look easy and we
truly appreciate her efforts in helping us reach our annual
goal as well.
American Airlines
Astellas
Axcan Scandipharm Inc.
Café Caterers
Chicago Police Explorers
Chicago Wolves
CLIF Bar
Coca-Cola
Damer & Cartwright Pharmacy
Dunkin' Donuts
East Bank Club
Excedrin
Fox News Chicago
Gift of Hope
PAGE 9
Heartland Food Corp.
Hill's Prescription Diet
Hinckley Springs Water
HSR Financial Corporation
Idenix Pharmaceuticals
Illinois Secretary of State
Jewel-Osco Foods
Kane County Cougars
Lenora's Kitchen
Marshall High School
Make-A-Wish Foundation
Moo & Oink
New Balance
Pepsi Americas
Pet Supplies Plus
Pharmacare Specialty Pharmacy
Roche Pharmaceuticals
SM@RT Technology Services
Snyder's of Hanover
Sour Punch
Special Events Management
The Mix 101.9 fm-WTMX
The Prime Group, Inc.
VietNow
Vitner's Chips
Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy
X-Sport Fitness
Join us in Thanking our Wonderful Sponsors!
5K Liver Wellness Walk/Run October 14, 2006
Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic liver disease that causes slow, progressive destruction of the bile ducts in the liver.
In turn this interferes with the excretion of bile, creating inflammation. This causes scarring and leads to cirrhosis. Women are
affected ten times more than men. While scientists and physicians have known about PBC for over 100 years, the basic cause is
still unknown. Treatments are available to alleviate symptoms, but there is no known cure.
Focus: Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
Cheri has not let this disease slow her down! She has been
committed to doing something about it and it takes shape at
the ALF annual 5K Liver Wellness Walk/Run. Cheri, her husband Bob, and Annie (her Miniature Pincher) have joined the
Walk for the last two years and she has worked hard to
Cheri was diagnosed with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC)
liver disease in July 2005. She is in stage 3 of 4 and lived with
the disease for 20 years without even knowing it. PBC is a
slow progressive destruction of the bile ducts which destroys
the liver. Continued liver inflammation results in scarring
and eventually leads to cirrhosis in the later stages of the disease. It can only be detected via a LFT liver function blood
test and a biopsy determines what stage a person is in. Cheri
is currently in stage 3 of 4 stages of this disease, a disease
that never goes away.
Do you ever wonder what motivates people to win? Is this
competitive spirit in their genes or are they driven by some
other factor? In most cases, we can track the path they choose
to glory and while we have plenty of "winners" at the Liver
Wellness 5K Walk/Run, there is a "sole" winner that stands
out-Cheri Mauer.
By Carolyn Watkins-Vazquez
Behind the Liver Wellness Walk:
The Making of a "Supreme Sole"
3/14/07
9:50 AM
Page 17
Peg Intron plus Rebetol vs. Pegasys plus
Copegus for HCV patients with genotype 1
who have never been treated with any interferon or ribavirin product.
Two different doses of Peg-Intron plus Rebetol
will be compared to standard doses of Pegasys
plus Copegus.
Contact: Mary Kozlowski, RN @ 312-503-0125
PEG-Intron Maintenance Therapy vs. an
Untreated Control Group for Prevention of
Progression of Fibrosis in Adult Subjects with
Chronic Hepatitis C with Hepatic Fibrosis
(METAVIR Fibrosis Score of F2 or F3), who
Failed Therapy with PEG-Intron plus Rebetol
To assess the safety and efficacy of PEG-Intron
0.5 ug/kg weekly as maintenance therapy vs. an
untreated control group in adult subjects with
chronic Hepatitis C with hepatic fibrosis
(METAVIR Fibrosis score F2 or F3) to determine if longer maintenance therapy with PEGIntron will retard or reverse the progression of
fibrosis, thus preventing the development of
cirrhosis.
Contact: Noreen Osman @ 312-503-0122
PEG-Intron as Maintenance Therapy vs. an
Untreated Control Group in Adult Subjects
with Compensated Cirrhosis (METAVIR F4),
Secondary to Chronic Hepatitis C, Who Have
Failed to Respond to Therapy with Any Alpha
Interferon Plus Ribavirin
To assess the safety and efficacy of PEG-Intron
0.5 ug/kg weekly as maintenance therapy vs. no
treatment for the prevention of disease progression in adult subjects with compensated cirrhosis secondary to chronic hepatitis C, who failed
to respond to therapy with any alpha interferon
(including pegylated interferon) plus ribavirin.
Contact: Noreen Osman @ 312-503-0122
PEG-Intron Plus Rebetol for the Treatment of
Subjects With Chronic Hepatitis C Who
Failed to Respond to Previous Combination
Therapy (any alpha Interferon Treatment in
Combination with Ribavirin)
Patients who were non-responders or relapsers
to any type of interferon (including pegylated
interferon) and ribavirin with METAVIR F2, F3,
or F4 to be treated with pegylated interferon
and ribavirin. This study is one part of a two
part program which first offers PEG-Intron plus
Rebetol to patients with METAVIR F2, F3 or F4
who have failed alpha interferon plus ribavirin
therapy. The second part of the program identifies non-responders and offers them entrance
into a maintenance therapy study.
Contact: Noreen Osman @ 312-503-0122
Hepatitis C
Northwestern University
Naïve HCV >85kg (187lbs study)
Inclusion Criteria
To be eligible for this trial, patients must have
documentation of the following:
"Age = 18years
"Body weight = 85 kg
"Serologic evidence of CHC infection by an
anti-HCV antibody test (current or historical)
"Evidence of hepatitis C genotype 1 infection
by molecular assay
"Serum HCV RNA quantifiable at =400,000
IU/mL by the Roche TaqMan HCV Test
"Chronic liver disease consistent with CHC
infection on a biopsy obtained within the past
24 calendar months as judged by a central
pathologist. For patients with incomplete/transition to cirrhosis or cirrhosis, a biopsy within
36 calendar months before the first dose is sufficient. A maximum of 20% of patients with cirrhosis or incomplete/transition to cirrhosis will
be permitted to enroll in the trial.
"Patients with cirrhosis or incomplete/transition
to cirrhosis must have an abdominal ultrasound, computerized tomographic (CT) scan,
or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
without evidence of hepatocellular carcinoma
(within 2 months prior to randomization) and a
serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) <100 ng/mL
"Compensated liver disease (Child-Pugh Grade
Hepatitis C
Contact: Monique L. Williams, RN, BSN,
Senior Research Coordinator, Section Of
Hepatology, (312) 563-3919 office
Rush University
PEG-Intron/Rebetol vs PEG-Intron/SCH
503034 With and Without Ribavirin in
Chronic Hepatitis C HCV 1 Peginterferon
alfa/Ribavirin Nonresponders: A SCH 503034
Dose Finding Phase 2 Study (P03659)
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the
safety and effectiveness of an investigational
protease inhibitor when it is combined with
pegylated interferon and ribavirin, for refractory
patients.
Contact: Kim Sipich @ 312-503-0121
CPG10101 Combination therapy for the treatment of hepatitis C: a phase 1B open-label,
randomized trial of CPG10101 alone, with
interferon, ribavirin, or interferon and ribavirin in the treatment of relapsed HCV subjects
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the
safety and effectiveness of an investigational
drug called CPG10101 (Actilon- a toll-like
receptor 9 antiviral agonist), when it is combined with pegylated interferon and ribavirin,
for patients who have relapsed during previous
treatment attempts.
Contact: Noreen Osman @ 312-503-0122
Clinical Trials
20458_ALF Newsletter.qxd
If you have any patients who may be interested
in participating or you have any questions
regarding the study, please do not hesitate to
contact Dr. Helen Te, Dr. Smruti Mohanty, or
The University of Chicago's Liver Study Unit
was established in 1971 to improve the treatment of patients with liver diseases and to
encourage teaching and research about liver
disorders. Listed below are the trials in which
we are actively enrolling patients.
University of Chicago
Exclusion Criteria
Patients with any of the following will not be
eligible for participation:
"Willingness to give written informed consent
and willingness to participate in and comply
with the study requirements
"Infection with HCV genotype 1 mixed with a
genotype other than genotype 2 or genotype 3
or infection with an indeterminate genotype.
Patients with indeterminate or mixed genotype
1 subtypes will be allowed.
"History of having received interferon alpha
(IFN), PEG-IFN, ribavirin, viramidine, levovirin, or investigational HCV protease or polymerase inhibitors at any previous time, or any
other systemic antiviral therapy with established or perceived activity against the hepatitis
C virus =3 months prior to the first dose of
study drug
"History of having received any investigational
drug =3 months prior to the first dose of study
drug or the expectation that such drugs will be
used during the study. Patients enrolled in this
study cannot be enrolled in another study for
either research, diagnostic or treatment purposes.
"Patients who are expected to need systemic
antiviral therapy with established or perceived
activity against HCV at any time during their
participation in the study are also excluded
"Positive test at screening for anti-HAV IgM Ab,
HBsAg, anti-HBc IgM Ab, or anti-HIV Ab
"History or other evidence of a medical condition associated with chronic liver disease other
than CHC (eg, hemochromatosis, autoimmune
hepatitis, metabolic liver disease, alcoholic liver
disease, toxin exposures)
"Females who are pregnant or breast-feeding
"Male partners of females who are pregnant
"Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) <1500
cells/mm
A clinical classification only)
"Negative urine pregnancy test result (for
females of childbearing potential) documented
within the 24-hour period prior to the first dose
of study drugs. Additionally, all female patients
of childbearing potential and all males with
female partners of childbearing potential must
use two forms of effective contraception (combined) during treatment and 6 months after
treatment end
"Willingness to give written informed consent
and willingness to participate in and comply
with the study requirements
A national registry of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, which will evaluate the etio-
Hepatocellular Carcinoma
A Study to Describe the Antiviral Effect of
Entecavir (ETV) in Blacks/African Americans
and Hispanics with Chronic HBV Infection
who are Nucleoside/tide- Naïve. Inclusion criteria: Age 18 years and older, HBe Antigen positive or negative, nucleoside/tide- naïve, ALT 1.3
to 10 x ULN. Exclusion criteria: History of
decompensated cirrhosis, co-infection with
HCV, HIV or HDV, Alcohol or drug abuse within last 12 months.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C (Treatment naïve):
A Phase 2 Study of a HCV polymerase
inhibitor prodrug in combination with
Pegylated Interferon and Ribavirin for HCV
treatment naïve patients. Inclusion Criteria:
Age 18-65 years, HCV genotype 1, HCV RNA
level>50,000 IU/mL and liver biopsy w/in past
2 years. Exclusion Criteria: Previous HCV treatment, Cirrhosis, decompensated liver disease,
alcohol or drug abuse within last 12 months.
Hepatitis C (Treatment Non-Responders,
Naïve and Relapsers):
A Phase 1, Double-blind, Placebo Controlled,
Dose-Escalation, Multi-Center Therapeutic
Trial of the Safety, Immunogenicity and
Efficacy of GI-5005; an Inactivated
Recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Vaccine Expressing a Hepatitis C Virus NS3Core Fusion Protein, in Patients with Chronic
Hepatitis C Infection. Inclusion Criteria: HCV
RNA level>1000 IU/mL, age 18 or older, liver
biopsy w/in past 2 years, negative scratch test
to S. cerevisiae. Exclusion Criteria:
Decompensated liver disease, including portal
hypertension, varices, ascites, cirrhosis,
encephalopathy, HCC, HCV treatment w/in 3
months prior to screening, diabetes.
Hepatitis C (Treatment naïve):
A Phase 4 Study of High Dose Induction of
Pegylated Interferon With Ribavirin for
Patients with Hepatitis C who have never
been treated before. Inclusion criteria: Age 18
years and older, HCV, Genotype 1, weight>
85kg, liver biopsy within past 2 years.
Exclusion criteria: Previous HCV treatment,
Decompensated liver disease, Alcohol or drug
abuse within last 12 months.
Hepatitis C
Dr. Donald Jensen at (773) 702-2395 or Katie
Wherity, R.N, BSN at (773) 702-4477.
(Continued)
Clinical Trials
Hepatitis C Virus Kinetics after Liver
Transplantation: Impact of Living Donor Liver
Transplantation and Pre-Transplant Antiviral
Therapy
Phase 2, Randomized, Dose-Ranging, Openlabel Study of the Safety and Tolerability of
Consensus Interferon-Alpha (CIFN) plus
Interferon Gamma-1b (IFN-? 1b) with or without Ribavirin (RBV) in the Treatment of
Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C who are
Non-responders to PEG-IFN-? (2a or 2b) plus
RBV. (CLOSED FOR ENROLLMENT AND
WILL REOPEN SOON.)
Available for patients (all genotypes) who have
not responded to pegylated interferon (PegIntron or Pegasys) and ribavirin. Patients will
be randomized into cohorts with differing doses
of daily CIFN, thrice weekly IFN-gamma 1b,
and daily ribavirin. If there is a > 2log drop in
viral load at week 24, the patient will be continued on the treatment regimen until week 48
Interferon Resistance in Genotype 1 Infected
Patients
Available for genotype infected patients who
have never been treated for Hepatitis C. The
purpose of this study is to assess viral kinetics
in patients receiving the standard treatment
with peg-interferon alfa-2a and ribavirin. The
study is available for African-American,
Hispanic and Caucasian patients only. The
study involves frequent blood draws and one
overnight stay in the GCRC in the hospital.
A Phase IIb Clinical Trial to Evaluate the
Combination of Pegylated Interferon Alfa plus
Valopicitabine (NM283) in Treatment-Naïve
Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
Available for treatment-naïve patients with
Hepatitis C. The purpose of this study is to
evaluate the safety and viral activity of the protease inhibitor NM283 with peg-interferon alfa2a in genotype 1a or 1b-infected patients who
have a baseline viral load of at least 500,000.
No liver biopsy will be required. The patients
will be randomized to one of 4 treatment arms
which all include NM283 and IFN. Patients will
receive at least 24 weeks of treatment. If the
patient demonstrates < 250,000 RNA at week
24 they will continue on study drug for up to
week 48.
Hepatitis C
Investigators: Dr. Scott Cotler and Dr. Thomas
Layden
Contact Person(s): Rebecca Duke, NP; Scott
Cotler, MD
Telephone Number(s): 312-996-8907; 312996-6929
University of Illinois at
Chicago
logic factors associated with HCC and to survey and stage the potential treat ability of
patients with HCC.
A Pilot Study of the Interaction Among Sleep
Apnea, Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and
Oxidative Stress
Available for patients with liver biopsy-proven
diagnosis of NASH (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis) and a BMI (body mass index) of >30.
Patients will be admitted to the General Clinical
Research Center (GCRC) for an overnight sleep
study with blood tests to evaluate whether they
have sleep apnea and to track changes in liver
enzymes overnight. If a patient does have sleep
apnea, they will be asked to return for another
overnight sleep study using a CPAP machine to
control the apnea and for blood tests to evaluate
if liver enzymes improve with treatment for the
sleep apnea. This study will evaluate whether
NASH, combined with sleep apnea increases
oxidative stress and consequently increases liver
damage.
A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Effect of
Combination Therapy of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
and Vitamin E on Hepatic Steatosis and
Factors Associated with Steatohepatitis
Available for patients with liver biopsy-proven
NASH (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis). Patients
will receive an MRI scan before treatment starts
to measure the amount of fat in and around the
liver. Patients will meet with a dietitian regarding gradual weight loss and will be randomized
into two groups - one receiving omega-3 fatty
acids (fish oil) and vitamin E - and one receiving no omega-3 fatty acid supplementation.
Another MRI scan will be performed on all
patients at the end of the study. Patients will
receive treatment for 24 weeks. There is no
standard-of-care treatment for fatty liver and the
effect of supplementation with omega-3 fatty
acids combined with vitamin E needs to be
studied.
NASH
Study of DENSPM in Patients with
Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Study of a new chemotherapeutic agent, DENSPM in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Available for patients with unresectable
(cannot be surgically removed) liver tumors and
who are not eligible for chemoembolization.
Patients will receive infusions of DENSPM to
reduce the size or stop the growth of liver
tumors.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Available for patients waiting for liver transplantation with the primary liver disease of
Hepatitis C. Patients will be placed in 3 groups:
cadaveric liver transplantation, living donor
liver transplantation, or living donor transplantation who will receive "standard" treatment for
HCV with pegylated interferon and ribavirin for
12 weeks before the transplant operation. The
study involves frequent blood draws one day
before the operation, during the operation and
up to 8 weeks post-op.