Phoenix, Arizona

Positive since 2001

I am glad I have POZ for meeting people and sharing my story. I’ve been trying to meet someone, but it is hard because it seems everyone isn’t speaking the same language. I am guilty, too, because I was trying to find that key thing to say or read that would let me know how to make a person be interested in me. I found out it doesn’t work that way. Same sex is harder, and opposite-sex friends think you are their mate. I think if we just are ourselves, it would be easier. One person gave me good advice: Don’t give up. And I won’t.

What three adjectives best describe you?

Caring. Loving. Honest.

What is your greatest achievement?

My greatest achievement is sticking to the goals I set for myself and not giving up on the idea that my life can get better. Also, having somewhere to live, a car, church, my education and, now, POZ.

What is your greatest regret?

Not enjoying me, and not following my dreams (acting, singing, nursing, being a secretary, owning my own daycare or beauty shop).

What keeps you up at night?

Not having anyone to talk to or wake up to say good morning.

If you could change one thing about living with HIV, what would it be?

Being able to eat. Also, I think men have more support than women. In Arizona, the support is more for men.

What is the best advice you ever received?

Keep your hopes up. Try to share with someone how you feel because keeping it inside will eat you up. Take your meds.

What person in the HIV/AIDS community do you most admire?

Magic Johnson. For one thing, he’s my cousin. I never met him, but my dad and my niece did. I hope I will.

What drives you to do what you do?

Going to church, my kids and, now, POZ. I won’t give up.

What is your motto?

I am special.

If you had to evacuate your house immediately, what is the one thing you would grab on the way out?

My meds, kids, animals and purse.

If you could be any animal, what would you be? And why?

A bird because they can see. A dog because they can hear. A cat because they are graceful and can climb. All together, it would be wonderful.