Inuvik (July 31/06) - An Inuvik man who contracted Hepatitis C from tainted blood said he's waiting to see what he'll gain from a new billion-dollar government settlement offer.

Despite feeling the effects of Hepatitis C every day, Rudy Cardinal owns and operates a tire sales and repair shop in Inuvik. He is waiting to hear about a new government compensation package. - Philippe Morin/NNSL photo

Rudy Cardinal who was diagnosed with Hepatitis C in the summer of 2005, says no one has contacted him about receiving payment.

"Nothing yet, I heard the news yesterday," the 47-year-old said last week. Cardinal added he was still "sick as a dog" but dealing with his illness as best he can.

"There is this constant empty feeling in your stomach. It's also hard to get up in the mornings. This disease comes with a lot of things," he said.

On July 24, the Harper government announced it will pay $1 billion in compensation to victims of tainted blood overlooked by a 1998 settlement package from the previous government.

While it has yet to be ratified by the courts and provinces, the package would help approximately 5,500 Canadians who were infected with Hepatitis C through Canada's blood system.

If distributed equally, that would mean $181,818.00 to every person infected. However, the package will provide more aid to those worst affected by the disease.

Jane Dyson, spokesperson for the Hepatitis C Compassion Umbrella of Canada, said she hopes victims will get money soon.

"I know Stephen Harper said it would arrive by the beginning of next year. I hope it's not any longer," she said.

While some people infected with Hepatitis C have no symptoms, the disease can lead to liver failure.

Symptoms of the disease include headaches, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.

The disease can eventually lead to ailments such as jaundice. In cases where the liver stops working completely, Hepatitis C can even prove fatal.

While Cardinal's symptoms are not that severe, he said Hepatitis C has affected his entire life.

"I started the shop while I had (Hepatitis) and it's good that I have employees to do the heavier work," he said.

He does not mind waiting until the beginning of next year, if it means some retribution will be made.

"I think it's fair, so long as it's done properly," he said.