If I can be such an inspiration to others, I must treat myself with the same love I freely give...
HIV had kept me locked in fear for over a decade, constantly worrying about stigma and judgement. But I reminded myself of everything I had learned through yoga, meditation, and mindfulness: Stay present.
Learn about harmful effects of stigma and discrimination and read inspiring stories of women living with HIV overcoming stigma to lead full, healthy lives.
Last year when visiting my HIV allies in South Korea I realized that HIV stigma is still very high in South Korea, so even today you will hardly see people open about HIV.
The stigma is real, but over time I've learned to love myself, I've started to seek out communities of people living with HIV and I've been relieved to know that I'm no longer alone.
In my home country Burundi there are 13.24 million people of which 2.9% are living with HIV. This means 383,000 people! Many of them still do not have reliable access to HIV treatment and HIV stigma and prejudices are still widespread throughout Burundi.
I believe that by being open about my experience, I can help dismantle the myths and misconceptions about living with HIV. Every life has those pivotal moments, the ones that change everything.
I highly recommend attending future ANAC conferences. The experience will enrich your understanding of HIV care, connect you with like-minded professionals, and inspire you to make a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS.
I come here when things are rough. When my head is so full I have to put it on paper. I can't say that I put it all here.
As I continue to blog and open up about my story for the first time, I hope to give readers insight into how a former barber from Rancho Cucamonga, CA turned an HIV diagnosis into the biggest blessing of her life.