I was diagnosed with HIV in March 2009. I never thought it would happen to me. Famous last words, I was diagnosed late and had HIV-related pneumonia. I wish I had been tested earlier to save me the extra pain of not only finding out my status but being extremely sick at the same time.

If I'd have left it any longer then I would have been seriously ill, I have no doubt of that. The past year has been difficult. I've kept quiet about my status for fear of being discriminated against, but have told a select few, including my family, after a while. Telling my family was the most difficult thing I've ever had to do. They have been great though.

Get tested if you think you are at risk. Don't do what I did and leave it till you get sick. Testing positive is not the end of the world. Being positive and unaware is dangerous and damaging to your own health, and potentially others.

John