Pompano Beach, Florida

Positive since 2014

I’m telling my story with the hope of inspiring others who are HIV positive.

I was diagnosed in August 2014.

My initial reaction was, “Oh no! How do I tell my friends and family?”

And due to rapid weight loss, fatigue and weakness, it was obvious that I was ill, so everybody in my life was concerned about my health. There came a point where I had to just face it and face them, only to reveal I was HIV positive.

I was scared of reactions, fearing discrimination or negativity, wondering what people would think of my situation.

I made a conscious decision that I was proud of who I am. I had nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed about, so I just revealed it openly to all in my life that I had been diagnosed HIV positive. And if they couldn’t accept it, then so be it.

Knowing rumors were running rampant throughout the company I was working for as a load securement instructor, I addressed the entire company through email. Four thousand employees knew what my diagnosis was.

Seven hundred past students of mine stood up on Facebook and said, “We’ve got your back brother.”

They even went so far as to create a hardhat decal, selling them to raise money for my needs. The decal was Zee’s Band of Brothers.

This opened my eyes and made me realize I had nothing to hide, and because of such strong family and friend support, I made the decision to speak out publicly about my illness and the need for HIV/AIDS awareness.

 

What three adjectives best describe you?

Determined, proud and alive.

What is your greatest achievement?

Raising my daughter.

What is your greatest regret?

Not seeking medical attention sooner.

What keeps you up at night?

Meds.

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

People becoming more informed about HIV/AIDS.

What is the best advice you ever received?

Keep a good outlook. Don’t let it bring you down.

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

Several, but my hero is Ryan White.

What drives you to do what you do?

Raising awareness.

What is your motto?

Stay strong.

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

My family.

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

A dog because of all the love and attention.