I was diagnosed with HIV back in 2002 and nearly died as the virus had been in my system for over 10 years. I lost the ability to walk and had to really work hard at trying to walk again as I wanted to do an art degree. I managed to finish the degree winning an award for my artwork that was all based around my HIV positive status.

I continue to exhibit and raise awareness promoting safer sex, and being open about it has been very empowering for me and hope my story helps others not to feel ashamed and hide away as this condition can affect anybody. I was ashamed at first but now I am proud of all that I have achieved and that I was lucky enough to survive to tell the tale.

Mandy