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"A Family Tradition for 132 Years" PORT PERRY STAR - Tuesday, December 1, 1998 - 19 About Assistance for Hepatitis C Sufferers Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus that can have devastating effects * All former Ontario residents who P EASE EB know or suspect that they have on some of its victims; leaving dL hepatitis C as a result of receiving them unable to work, to pay their mortgages or to provide food for their families. This is the tragic | o Wh human toll of hepatitis C. That's why, in the spring of 1998, Ontario Premier Mike Harris declared his government's intention to provide financial assistance for all individuals who contracted hepatitis C as a result of receiving blood or blood products in Ontario. It is the government's position that these victims, through no fault of their own, have suffered and are continuing to suffer. The time for action is now. To that end, the Ontario government is beginning the process of delivering fair and equitable treatment for these people. The first step in this confidential process is to identify all potential victims who may have contracted hepatitis C as a result of receiving blood products in Ontario before 1986 and after June 30, 1990. This would include: » All Ontario residents who know or suspect that they have hepatitis C as a result of receiving blood products in Ontario. Call Toll Free 1-877-222-4977 In Toronto (416) 327-0539 TTY 1-800-387-5559 (¥) Ontario blood products in Ontario. * All people who know or suspect that they have hepatitis C due to contact with a spouse, partner or parent whose hepatitis C was the result of receiving blood products in Ontario. This would not include: * Those who contracted hepatitis C between January 1, 1986 and June 30, 1990 as they fall within the umbrella of federal-provincial assistance being negotiated within class actions. If you belong to any of the included groups, call one of the numbers listed below to receive an information package containing more details. The Ontario government is beginning this process because we believe that, for victims of hepatitis C, waiting simply prolongs the suffering. Please call so that together we can help you get on with your life,