When Pamela Anderson was diagnosed with hepatitis C in the late 1990s, there was no effective cure for the viral infection. "It was a death sentence. That's what my doctor told me — that I probably had around 10 years to live," the "Baywatch" star recalled in a moving speech at the amfAR Gala in Venice. "I'm sure that colored my perspective on life and how I approached every day." Hepatitis C is a contagious liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which can lead to long-term health complications if left untreated. At the time of Anderson's diagnosis, treatment options were limited and often involved harsh medications with significant side effects. Many patients faced a grim prognosis, and the virus was considered a serious, life-threatening condition. Anderson, known for her role as a lifeguard on the popular 1990s television show "Baywatch," has since become an advocate for health awareness and research. Her experience with hepatitis C has inspired her to support organizations working to find cures and improve treatment options for those living with the virus. "I was terrified, but I also wanted to fight," she said, emphasizing the importance of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity. Today, hepatitis C is treatable with highly effective antiviral medications that can cure the infection in most cases. Advances in medical research have transformed what was once a fatal diagnosis into a manageable condition. Anderson's story highlights the progress made in the fight against hepatitis C and the power of personal experience in raising awareness and encouraging support for continued research.