I just turned 51 on April 11, and I'm still here, with all the ups and downs, but fighting like the warrior that I am.
What was the most impactful were the stories told by each of us living with HIV. It would not have been nearly as successful without our voices.
So, if you remember my last blog, I shared my pregnancy news and my plans to breastfeed my baby. Well, I breastfed, it didn't last long though, but let's get into this short story.
As I approach my 17th year of living with HIV, I can clearly hear God's voice, I'm happy to hear his voice, I realize how much more painful it was not being able to hear it.
Having navigated the challenges of living with HIV, I've experienced firsthand the stigma and misconceptions surrounding this virus.
Those of us aging with HIV need to make our voices heard. When we are asked about our experiences, we need to be honest about what we are experiencing because polite responses and silence will not get us anywhere.
In this profound journey through the shadows, I've witnessed the evolution of our complex relationship with HIV and our quest for healing – my mother's and mine.
My decision to openly share my HIV status at the age of 23 was not about seeking attention but about filling a critical gap in the conversation.
Keep fighting. Take it one step at a time. Can't do it by yourself? Seek help.
Managing HIV as children and into adulthood is an experience and a bond that is difficult to describe.