Tell me a summary of your story of living with HIV.
Living with HIV really gave me a connection to another spill of people. It gave me a purpose to live, it’s given my a career. I’m learned so much behind it.
What’s the biggest thing that you learned about yourself?
That I’m strong.
What would it mean to you if we ended this HIV epidemic?
I wouldn’t have a job anymore! But you know, I’m trying to work my way out of the job!
And if we ended it, then I wouldn’t have any stigma to worry about.
Where the stigma comes in is because sex is good, right!? Who doesn’t like to have sex? But, disclosing your status to someone before you have sex? You now have to educate someone on HIV.
What does Ending the HIV Epidemic look like to you?
If we can get everyone to know their status. That’s the first step. Then, everyone that does know their status ought to be virally suppressed or on PrEP.
What’s is like being a peer working in the HIV services field?
It allows me to connect to people right off the bat.
What does U=U mean to you? How has it impacted your life?
It lets me know that I can live a healthy life.
I don’t think U=U got really big until 2016. But you see, I tested positive March 8, 2015. The first thing that came to mind was – 7 years…meaning I was gonna die in seven years because I’m old enough to remember when it was a death sentence.
I read a shirt one time that said, “I’m HIV+.” If it was only that simple” — meaning I’m HIV+…if I could just say that and someone understand.
How many years U=U?
UU8
Is there anything else I should know about you?
I am a father of a 4 1/2 year little girl.
#CelebrateUU #UU8 #UequalsU
