“I believe I contracted HIV in 1993 from sharing a syringe with someone. There was a little bit of blood in the syringe but there was also a 1/2 bag of heroin in it and I was feeling very sick from withdrawal. The person didn't tell me they were positive nor do I even know if they knew at that time. I met them many years later at the organization I work for and they told me they were positive. During those drug-using years I was also a sex worker. That's how I supported my habit, so I had various exposures however; I still, to this day, can see that syringe with the blood in it. Back then that didn't really mean anything to me because HIV hadn't touched my world that closely yet. This is why I feel so passionate about bringing awareness before it "touches" someone’s world.
I take my medications exactly as prescribed. I have had some difficult regimens in the past and, even in the advance of new technology and once-a-day pills, some medications don't like me! I am now on Epzicom and Viramune. Feeling good!
My life has changed in so many ways. I found recovery, a purpose, love, a career doing something I love! But the main thing that HIV has changed is that I found out that I am a tough cookie! I'm strong, I'm powerful and I have a voice. That's how HIV has changed my life for the better.
Just normalizing this condition makes a huge difference. If we don't end the stigma, we can't end this epidemic. Knowing that we, HIV+ and HIV-individuals, can take responsibility is huge. Campaigns such as U=U help those of us with HIV not feel so infectious. PrEP certainly has the ability to change someone's relationship with their sexuality and feel more comfortable. I have had a partner (not HIV+, but passed away 5 years ago) who helped me feel comfortable with my sexuality. PrEP can help people do the same.”
Dana, 57, undetectable. Queens, NY. Director of Health Services at a CBO, Exponents.