It’s not only the reel bad guys that action star Derek Dee (“Rumble Boy,” “Maglulupa Man Ako,” “Angel on Fire,” “Matira ang Matibay” etc.) has been battling and felling one after the other.
In real life, though, Derek has fought and won against the infection of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) which causes liver inflammation and mostly, liver damage that leads to cancer of the liver or cirrhosis.
It was a delayed discovery of the actor’s illness, though.
Dee said when he and his former latest partner had planned to employ the procedure In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in Bangkok, Thailand some years back that the doctor detected HCV in his system.
“I guess I contracted the virus when I was hooked on drugs in the seventies. It was through contamination of infected needles that I got it. I haven’t had a blood transfusion before which could also be the source of the virus so I am sure my addiction was the cause of it all,” admitted Derek in an exclusive interview in Makati City.
Just as the IVF was not successful, HCV succeeded in dwelling in his body.
What Derek did was to undergo a rigid medical regimen in the treatment of the disease in the Philippines and abroad by following up the trials in its cure.
In effect, it was an expensive ailment but he didn’t mind it instead withstood the challenges in his health crisis.
After enduring the silent infection for many years, the former husband of 1979 Miss International Melanie Marquez and dad of the 2022 Miss Universe PH Tourism Michelle Dee, is now totally healed.
Derek’s total cure led him to initiate a personal crusade against Hepa C virus.
Billed as HepCured, a digital campaign, promotes awareness and treatment for Hepa C virus.
“I have been helping people who are stricken with Hepa C. I normally advise and send them to my doctor for diagnosis and treatment,” said Derek.
“Interested parties can get in touch with me through my Facebook account, Derek Dee. I will surely assist them,” said Derek.