LiverWELL celebrates with PEASER

On the 6th of July, LiverWELL collaborated with the Pilipino Elderly Association of South East Region (PEASER) for our first World Hepatitis Day event under the Incentives Program!

Over 45 members of PEASER came together to learn about World Hepatitis Day, and its significance. We also encouraged testing, speaking to their doctor, and addressing stigma. LiverWELL’s Health Promotion Officer, Alain, presented key information relating to hepatitis B and its relevance to the Filipino community in Australia.

Many members had successfully spoken to their doctor and followed up on testing and vaccination after a session with Alain earlier in March. During the World Hepatitis Day Information, many members asked questions about hepatitis B and liver health. The education session concluded with a fun quiz with prizes, and an opportunity for members to grab some LiverWELL brochures and merch. Afterwards, the group had refreshments and some entertainment which included karaoke and Alain playing on the violin!

Alain playing his violin

Keep an eye out for grassroots, community driven and local organisation initiatives for this year’s World Hepatitis Day! 11 organisations were successful under LiverWELL’s ‘World Hepatitis Day Incentives Program, and will be delivering over 15 events throughout late July and August to raise awareness of World Hepatitis Day to their local communities.

Various events, ranging from education sessions, lunches, dinners and fun activities and entertainment, will be held across different areas in Victoria, from Southeast suburbs to out in the Western suburbs, to regional areas  in the Grampians and Shepparton. Organisations represent culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, to AOD services, ATSI Communities as well as youth organisations.

This offers an opportunity to connect to the community to not only talk about testing, vaccination and treatment for viral hepatitis, but also addressing stigma and discrimination for people living with and at risk of hepatitis B and hepatitis C.  We look forward to seeing an impactful World Hepatitis Day campaign this year and we would like to thank all communities involved!