I am a 56 year old woman. I've raised two daughters mostly on my own. I teach Art at a local high school. My status is a secret as I'm certain the school district would find a way to release me from my teaching position. I have four more years before I can think of retiring and would love to do so as I'm tired. Tired of the constant pressure that comes with teaching from the government, the school board, the administration, the parents. I love the kids though, they amaze me with their creative ideas! Because of the "secret" I carry, there is no man in my life. I was rejected by a man two years ago and haven't felt like opening up to anyone since. I only know one other woman with HIV and she lives in NY. I do have a male friend here in town that I talk to, he's positive as well.
Why I'd like to be part of AGLM: It would be nice to connect with other women who may be experiencing some of my concerns. I live in a very small town in the mountains of Colorado.
More about B2: I was infected by my fiance in October of 2002 and diagnosed in July of 2003. Very healthy, I taught aerobics for 21 years and now take yoga classes and fitball classes every week. The outdoors is where I really play though-hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, camping, running, rollerblading. I have been on meds for since July 2009 and part of a study at the University of Colorado Hospital. Isentress and Truvada are the drugs I take. I tried to stay off meds but my body eventually couldn't handle the virus. Before drugs, I took many supplements (I have a naturalpathic Dr. as well as an HIV Doc) in hopes of staying healthy. I've always had a healthy lifestyle, eating right and exercising. This virus shook my self concept to the core of my soul. But I'm determined to stay as healthy as I possibly can for as long as I possibly can.
I hope some day we can tell others without fear, good luck my friend. We need good teachers like you.