Real stories
Everyone has their own own unique story of living with HIV has affected them or someone they know. Real experiences can be instrumental in challenging people's attitudes and inspiring greater tolerance and understanding.
I am a mum of two and was diagnosed in 2002. After I told my brother that I was HIV positive he decided that it was his right to tell my older sister. They don't talk to me much now, except to tell me that they think its wrong. I didn't tell my little sister, so she doesn't know.
Michael
As my condition had clearly become one needing emergency treatment, I went to a local dental clinic for immediate help. I chose to consult the clinic - one of a chain of clinics, where nine months prior I had been treated very satisfactorily.
Kory
Being a Native American, I have faced prejudice. Even within my own family.
John
I am 23, a professional and HIV positive. I found out on Christmas Eve 2003, needless to say it was a shock to the system as I was at work when I was told (so confident was I that the result would be negative).
Debbie
My foster son, Michael, aged 8, was born HIV positive and diagnosed with AIDS at the age of 8 months. While still not expected to survive into adulthood, he is now a lively, bright, active and charming individual.
David
I was diagnosed HIV positive in November 2002. My HIV care was based at North Manchester Hospital, which is where the North West Regional HIV and AIDS centre is based. In the summer of 2001 I was asked to attend the hospital for a lactulose test.
Neil
I was diagnosed only two years ago and due to illness had lost my job and my home within 8 weeks. The whole experience on top off starting treatment was devastating. I had the very strong support of a friend and as a result he has just been awarded a British Red Cross Humanity Award.
Matthew
I was hired by Cirque du Soleil in the summer 2002 to train for a possible part in one of their shows. During the first day of the training, all artists were told that they had to go through a medical evaluation. It was at this time that I told the doctor's at Cirque that I was HIV-positive.
Kris
I have been HIV positive for 12 years. I contracted HIV through gang rape whilst in London training to be a nurse. Having found out I was HIV positive the first thing I did was turn to my family for support.
Dean
I was diagnosed over 3 years ago. I was in a high flying career as a stockbroker for a large European investment bank. I enjoyed all the trappings of a gay, young wealthy professional. However in April 1999 I was diagnosed as positive.
Clint
At school I knew nothing about HIV and AIDS, didn't know anyone with HIV and it was always something that impacted 'other' people and not youth. Sex education was biological, about pregnancy and put on a condom.
Gary
I was diagnosed with HIV 15 years ago after having treatment for Leukaemia. It appears that I was given contaminated blood. I was tested without knowing and then my status was leaked to the local press.
Leslie
In the November of 1995, I was diagnosed with a bad patch of shingles around my head. I had suffered with shingles previously as a boy, but this had cleared up with antibiotics within a few days. This time I was still suffering way after the drugs had finished.
