Yonkers, New York

Positive since 1991

I was diagnosed with HIV in 1991—the result of intravenous drug use. Prior to this diagnosis, also came the news that I was infected with hep C.

At the time of my initial diagnosis, I was told rather bluntly by a clinic counselor in a waiting room occupied by other patients that I was HIV positive. I wasn’t pulled aside and taken into a confidential space. Rather, my HIV diagnosis was disclosed openly.

The biggest problem that I’ve encountered because of my HIV status has been stigma. Back in the early ’90s when I was diagnosed, health care personnel were often angry that they had to work with HIV-positive patients. I experienced disrespectful staff who would often handle me quite roughly when blood was drawn, and workers were seemingly mean and spiteful toward PLWHA (people living with HIV/AIDS).

Unfortunately, despite advances in the treatment for PLWHA, stigma continues to be a primary issue for me.

I remember two to three years ago being told by a doctor’s secretary to find another podiatrist after he learned that I was HIV positive and I was also co-infected with hep C. She very carefully and diplomatically told me to find another doctor because the podiatrist at the time wasn’t comfortable with my overall medical conditions and because he had kids.

In the years since my diagnosis, I have learned a lot, including how to have empathy and patience with others. However, despite all the advances in HIV care as well as education around the virus, I am still cautious because of the negative reactions I still get when sharing my diagnosis.

My faith in God has helped me tremendously while on this journey. God and a few strong and compassionate service providers have taught me not to be afraid that I have HIV.

As a result, I’m not afraid to share with others that I have this disease. I have surrounded myself with others who also suffer from it and, more importantly, positive people who have been very supportive of my situation—specifically, the women I’ve met through the HIV programs at Family Services of Westchester and the staff there have inspired me and made a significant impact in my life.

I make people laugh, and I have a talent for this. A sense of humor helps get people through and helps me not take everything so seriously—because at the end of the day, you have to laugh.

What three adjectives best describe you?

Spunky, inspiring and godly.

What is your greatest achievement?

Staying alive despite suicidal thoughts in the past.

What is your greatest regret?

Contracting HIV.

What keeps you up at night?

Insomnia of unknown origin.

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

I would inspire others (churches especially) to involve themselves in the plight of the HIV community.

What is the best advice you ever received?

To keep trusting the Lord.

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

Women I have met at Family Services of Westchester who have encouraged me to keep fighting.

What drives you to do what you do?

God motivates me to help and encourage others.

What is your motto?

“Let go, and let God.”

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

My Bible. The word of God would keep me going.

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

A lion because it is powerful and unafraid.