Norfolk, Virginia

Positive since 1999

I was told two things at one time: My boyfriend had passed away, and I was HIV positive. I stayed bitter for a minute, but we know that too shall pass. I decided not to attend the funeral because I feared getting into trouble if I didn’t come back.

I got clean and was able to accept consequences. I work the 12 steps of Narcotics Anonymous and compare it to my everyday living, and it works out fine.

What three adjectives best describe you?

Forgiving, accepting and caring.

What is your greatest achievement?

If I hadn’t caught the virus, I wouldn’t be taking care of myself this much.

What is your greatest regret?

I would regret if I didn’t take my medicine.

What keeps you up at night?

Nothing really. I take a pill for comfort.

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

To use protection at all times.

What is the best advice you ever received?

Reading increases knowledge.

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

My doctor.

What drives you to do what you do?

I can’t walk, so much of my time is spent reading.

 

What is your motto?

To live as long as possible.

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

My medication.

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

A giraffe because of its long neck, and I could see things before they get to me.