“The global HIV/AIDS epidemic is an unprecedented crisis that requires and unprecedented response. In particular, it requires solidarity between the healthy and the sick, between rich and poor, and above all, between richer and poorer nations. We have 30 million orphans already. How many more do we have to get to wake up?”

- Koffi Anan

Nothing is more painful than knowing that you have an HIV. It’s always hard to accept no matter how hard you try. Most people who have a narrow mind may curse you and they are afraid to talk to you. It will take a lot of courage and strengths for the victims to feel comfortable on their environment.

The Story of an HIV Victim

I want to share my life story because I want to inspire other people like me, who’s also an HIV positive. I speak the truth as part of healing that I’m going through. In this way,I can share the light to everyone and how this disease changed my life. I think that everyone should know that I am an HIV victim because someone needs to be there to find me strength.

When I first diagnosed that I am positive, I felt so scared, nobody will wish to be in my position. I immediately asked myself and pray. I even tried to asked God why. I didn’t know what to do or where to seek help. I cried every night thinking how to tell this to my family.

I believe that I acquired the HIV because of my unprotected sex with some men. I usually do casual sex. I am still in the stage of denial during that time. I can’t still accept it! I always felt so depressed. It’s so hard!It’s been a very tough year for me but I need to fight.

I decided to tell my mom five days after I’ve been diagnosed because I need a helping hand and I cannot hide it from them forever.She cried and I saw her suffering from inside. But she gave me full support, she researched group organizations that may help me to face the HIV. She was always there for check-ups and medication. She even give everything to me.

I joined different groups and started to help as a volunteer also to other HIV victims. We share every stories and we educate others. That was really fun, I almost forgot that I am positive because I enjoyed the activities.

I still get depressed most of the time and I worry much. I felt so guilty about my depressions. Most of all, I felt that I am so very blessed because my body is still strong, it’s like a miracle. I should be grateful and use my time in helping other people like me.

It’s a matter of how will you handle the situation, it will be hard if you make it hard for yourself but it will always be easy if you will believe and seek the help of those people who loves you. I know that it’s not an end for me because there would be more obstacles to come and HIV is just like a piece of cake!

Heidi, 29

Tarlac City

- Jenny Villareal