Learn about trauma and how it affects women living with HIV. Also learn about PTSD and the good news that recovering from trauma is possible.
There is a well-established and strong link between violence and HIV among women. The Well Project has pulled together a list of resources for those who wish to learn more and take action.
When I was diagnosed with HIV almost 17 years ago I dove head first into activism. I was angry and I needed something to do with that anger or I would have turned it onto myself. What I didn't realize is that I had already done that and what I did not know is that I would let that anger build for almost two decades before I accepted it.
Learn about violence against women – what it looks like, its link to HIV, danger signs of abuse, leaving a violent relationship, and more.
I left home when I was 14 and I started drinking and doing drugs. I always felt like 'less' than other girls. I'd get blood tests since I was sexually active, even if I wasn't having sex all the time. I lived with the fear of sexually transmitted diseases. There were times when I would go back home and my family always greeted me lovingly.
The pain in her eyes, the love in her smile. She makes a room move, her energy is just that smooth. She has gave till she can't give, she has loved till she wants to stop, but that is not optional.
One of the most aggravating things to hear is, "But you only have to take one pill each day. I don't see what the big deal is."
As October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I would like to share with you my daughter's story. This was a very difficult time for our family, and I know it is not an easy story to share, but my daughter really loves to write; she's found healing in it as many of us do.
As we enter a new decade, I have a million thoughts swirling around in my head. I am a survivor, a warrior, and a champion. I've been down many times, but I always manage to rise stronger than before...
When I was born April of 1985, there was no test, no way of treating it and very little information about what it was. All they knew was that HIV was a murderer.