I’m a gay, healthy, HIV-positive man living my dream in New Delhi. It took a long time to get where I am, but I’m happy and live my life to the fullest. HIV treatments are getting better and I dream of a cure.
The difference between people who do things and those who don’t is that they do them. I’m not anyone special. I am just a guy with HIV who decided to do something about it. I really believe that we all have the potential to change the world in a positive way.
When you are first diagnosed, it feels like you have been given a life sentence. You feel isolated and alone. You are left within the whirlwind of your thoughts and emotions. It is a mental and emotional roller coaster of coming to terms with the new reality that you have HIV.
Though it can be seen as a life sentence in terms of it being a lifelong medical condition, you remain free. This is one of the many chapters in your life, with much of the journey and its conclusion still to be written. It is a new chapter and a new beginning of self-awareness, individual purpose and happiness.
Living with this chronic condition undoubtedly has its calm waters and turbulent storms, but it doesn’t define who you are. On your journey through life, you have the power to chart your course. That being said, turn living with HIV from a perceived weakness into a strength.
Recognise HIV for what it is, but also have the realisation that it has brought forth positive change in your life. I know this to be true because I too am HIV positive. With one step at a time forward, let us enjoy this journey together.
I live my life openly HIV positive. It has its setbacks with dating, relationships and sex. I try to be as open-minded with people as I can educate by example and hopefully change people’s minds and perspectives on what HIV is and how it affects people.
I want to do HIV work at a higher level than just case management. I would love to be a global voice someday. That would be my greatest achievement. This thing called HIV may win the battle with my human flesh one day, but with my love, spirit and legacy, we will win the war.
I have turned my Havoc Into a Victory (HIV).