my mother was diagnosed with hep c/cirrhosis 4years ago. she was 52. they believe she contracted hep c vis blood transfusion in the 70's. She found out she had hepc because she felt funny. So they ran numerous tests. By the time they found out she had hepc, cirrhosis began. she is currently in the final stages. she has been in the final stages the past year. interferon almost killed her. Her body couldnt handle it. the past year she has had fluid build up, confusion due to fluid build up, huge belly from the fluid, sleeps alot, days & nights are flip flopped. Recently, shes emaciated, no balance, uses a walker, gets "tapped" (fluid removed every other week), water on brain (is taking meds for this), and is taking meds for removal of ammonia (laxative?) her kidneys are currently affected. Thats what I know. Shes home. In bed. she has one day a week where she feels ok to shower. Then she goes back to bed. this "lingering" state has been going on for months. doctors say she should have been dead a year ago. My question is "how long will this last for?" Any thoughts are truly appreciated....................................