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Chris - overcoming stigma to be healthy and in love

Man smiles at camera
Photos are used for illustrative purposes. They do not imply health status or behaviour.

I was diagnosed with full blown Aids at 33. After three months in the Hospital, I lost my career and was alone.

But shortly after I met a wonderful man (Giovanni) who is negative. When I told him my status I thought he would go running for the hills, but to my surprise he told me he didn't care. To make a long story short we are still together today and we own our own business and home. It's been 19 years – and I am healthy, head over heels in love and married.

In my life before HIV, I took everything and everyone for granted now, but now I appreciate everyone and every day.

 

What we say: Being diagnosed with HIV, can have a big effect on people’s lives. Although Chris faced some set-backs at first, it all worked out in the end. Being diagnosed and getting treatment for HIV helped him to stay healthy and happy with his new man. His story shows how stigma doesn’t have to stop you from living the life you always wanted. Read our newly diagnosed page for more information on coming to terms with a positive result.

*These personal stories have been submitted to us anonymously by individuals who use our site. Some of the stories have been edited for clarity purposes. Some names have been changed to protect identities. 

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Photo credit: ©iStock.com/Tempura. 

 

Last updated: 26 September 2019