"HIV does not define me, nor will I allow it to determine my future."


I have a stressful and demanding career and yet it's one I wouldn't change for the world. My HIV in no way hinders my ability to work hard or enjoy every moment of the day. I don't view myself as being any different to any of my colleagues and have, thankfully, not encountered any prejudice or indifference from them or from my employers. If anything I am cared for, and given lots of time to attend my blood tests and checkups.

Perhaps I am one of the lucky ones. I recognise that my story is not repeated across the country and yet I believe that with a positive frame of mind, a determined effort to live a full and active life and a responsible attitude to medication and regular check ups, most of us living with HIV can have a 'normal', happy and fulfilling life. I have always felt that HIV is simply a tiny part of the person I am—it does not define me, nor will I allow it to determine my future.

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