The New Face of HIV

I have been thinking back to when I was diagnosed, almost 19 years ago. I have fooled most people. They look at me and see just another 40 year old. An average healthy adult with kids, bills, a job and school work. I am just amazed that prejudices are still there. I am angry that I can’t wear a t-shirt with the quote on it that states: “The New Face of HIV.” I want to scream it from the roof. We as women need to get together and get this information to our daughters!

An article by the CDC states: “…even though more men than women have HIV, women are catching up. In fact, if new HIV infections continue at their current rate worldwide, women with HIV may soon outnumber men with HIV.”

This should motivate us as women, and mothers to take a stand and speak up for the future generations. It would be nice to be an activist to find the cure. I feel this is something that is preventable. We have the knowledge to prevent this. It starts at home.

But sometimes we don’t get to do whatever we want to do. Sometimes we have to do what’s best for others. I don’t want my family to suffer from my selfishness to be heard. I don’t want to jeopardize my husband’s career. I don’t want my children to be ostracized. So for now I speak to my children and my nieces and nephews how this can be avoided. I hope that they take my advice, because it might save their life someday.

I am glad that I have an outlet here. Thank you all for being there. Jae