DeWayne's Story

DeWayne contracted hepatitis B when he had a blood transfusion as a child. Growing up in foster care and not having health insurance, DeWayne went without treatment for most of his life. But after getting married and becoming a dad, he found motivation to take control of his health. DeWayne started going to the doctor, taking medication to control his hepatitis B, and living a healthier lifestyle.

DeWayne first learned about the hepatitis B vaccine as a child when the other children trying out for his local youth sports team had to be vaccinated in order to play with him. He has been living with chronic hepatitis B for almost 40 years, and is one of the only hepatitis B cases in town in rural Georgia.t. DeWayne shares his struggle with finding accessible care, as he travels 360 miles every six months just to receive treatment. He stresses the importance of vaccination and screening as preventative measures to protect against hepatitis B in the future.