My name is Susie. I contracted HIV 17 years ago, diagnosed 9 years ago. I was a single mother, 30 years of age and terrified to die and leave my children behind.
Over the years I have learned to live a stress free life with HIV. I don’t let HIV control my world. I see the doctor’s only when necessary, take my meds, and keep reasonably healthy. I was allergic to one medication I was on for three years, so that was hard, but I changed meds and now am on one tablet a day.
I work with acquired brain injury patients as I m a welfare worker and I love that. I have disclosed to my employer who is excellent about it, and she employs me permanent part-time to allow for doctors appointments and so forth.
I also attend the retreats Pozhet hold. This helps me to keep great mental health, socialise, and discuss HIV with friends. I met my husband at one of these retreats and always look forward to the next year. By maintaining a solid relationship with ACON workers, Pozhet and seeing my HIV specialist I am happy and healthy, and I now have two grandchildren to live for!
Susie