BILLINGS - Hepatitis C is a disease of the liver caused by the Hepatitis C Virus. It is spread primarily by direct contact with human blood.
Many people who have the virus show no signs or symptoms and do not know they are infected.
Denise Hughes was diagnosed with the virus in 2006.
She believes she contracted it more than 25 years ago from sharing a drug-snorting straw.
While intravenous drug use is the most commonly known way the virus is contracted, recipients of blood or solid organs before 1992, or recipients of clotting factors made before 1987 are also at a high risk.
Hughes finished up her first round of treatment for the virus. She said it was grueling, as can be the feelings of shame that can come with the diagnosis.
She said online support groups kept her going during treatment and now wants to bring that same support to others here at home, face to face.
"When you come into that meeting, it's very hard that first step, but when you come through that door I'll make you feel welcome, and make you feel you're glad you came and I'll be there to help you all the way through it," said Hughes about her support group.
The Hepatitis C support group is called Big Sky Country.
It is held at Billings Clinic, the first and third Wednesday of every month from 7-8 p.m.