My name is Harrison, and I am 20. I tested HIV positive in August 2012, when I wanted to join the Nigerian Army. I am very healthy and strong, and I passed all of the screening exercises. In the running of the 3.5 km race I came 7th out of 150. But during the blood medical test the doctor called me in and told me that I had HIV. I was dumbfounded and dead inside. Throughout that week I was unable to sleep and eat. Both my parents are negative. 

When I went to hospital for medication, my CD4 count was high – at 687. The doctor gave me Septrin and told me to come back in December to know my CD4 count again, and see if they want to start treatment.

I thank God for my Mum, because she is the only person that knows what am going through now, for her advice and words of encouragement.