Unfortunately finding out one has HIV or AIDS can be embarrassing at so many levels. For some it's family, others religion, others society and others...our demons! Which ever category we fall in, it is still devastating. Of course, looking forward to living should be ones goal. Unfortunately, many think that if they are feeling good and doing well health wise, they should slack off. Very big mistake. My brother in law's brother was HIV positive and he moved around, not caring about his health. When he became very ill, he returned home and tried to get his health back. It was a bit too late. He went from one thing to another and finally got full blown AIDS. He got a severe case of pneumonia and had to be hospitalized. He only lasted 2 weeks before passing. My point is that our health is so very important to defeat this virus. True, they have not eradicated it, yet, but being undetectable is the best we can do. Being optimistic and knowing we need to care for ourselves (because no one will do it for us) should be a priority. We need to put our embarrassment aside and think, that we need to live so we can help others who are fighting this virus!! Ok, yes, we don't have to put a big sign over our heads saying, "I'm here if you have HIV". 😁 But if you hear of someone struggling over this, then be there for them and let them know your story and how they can cope with their issues. Ok, I'll stop rambling! 😉

I made up my mind that only those I want to know about my situation are the only people that should know. One brother (out of 3) knows about my condition. My sisters don't know (one knows I'm gay). My ex partner, my best friend and his now ex partner, my current partner and the people at the clinic know. It is no ones business to know my medical history, unless they plan to help me in some way! 😉 I'm happy with the way things are!!😀

Unfortunately I have to create a family of my own as my siblings don’t care 🤷 about me in there life’s or kids! So I surround my self with friends gay or straight? And I’m blessed with a huge loving 🥰 people that know we can count on each other! Plus all the love ❤️ here is beyond a blessing and a person can ask for!

I have both, thankfully.

Great question. I just finished a counseling session and we discussed this. Since my father died I have only my sister. She and her family stated they want nothing to do with me following my father's probate which lasted two years. She is after money and nothing else as my attorney put it. She has had her kids reach out for her a few times acting as if nothing is wrong, but I thiink just checking if I am still alive. This the opinion of my Psychologist, Doctors, and Attorney.l They all know I have had HIV for half my life, and many other chronic issues, but never ask about them in their conversations. I am disappointed in her children as I was a huge part of their upbringing and their turning their backs on me is surprising. As such, for my own good, I don't feel I have family. My family has and always have been my friends and partners. Wish things could be different, but that is just how it is.