Tell me part of your story of living with HIV?
I was diagnosed in 2000 after donating blood at a Red Cross blood drive at my work. I was in denial for a long time because I knew how people in my community felt about HIV/AIDS. Once even my family found out I was pretty much on my own. I did every presentation during my college time that would allow it on the epidemic because I wanted college age people to be aware of the crisis. I just know that people probably think it will never happen to them, but so did I.
What would ending the HIV Epidemic mean to you?
People would be able to live their lives without the stigma of what others think HIV actually is. This epidemic has been out of control for so long but like all others education and testing is needed to see where the areas are to stop this now.
What does U=U mean to you? How does it affect your life?
My kids, grandkids and other loved ones don’t have to be afraid to be around me. I no longer try to isolate myself from my family whom I love very much.
How long have you been undetectable?
15 years
Anything else I should know about you?
I met the love of my life due to this illness. My life was completed when I met the cute man who would later become my husband. Jesse was an amazing man who made me smile and laugh. Sadly due to a drug overdose Jesse lost his life August 26, 2021 at the age of 29. He never judged me because of my status and I still love him for all he was to me.
