A Second Chance at Life: Finding Strength in My HIV Diagnosis

Right now I'm watching tv, mostly the news. Life is good after a 2025 without insurance due to HR mistakes at work. I finally got my insurance again and right on time.

A routine cold takes a turn

Early February came with some kind of “cold” symptoms for me, then I started coughing a lot, sweating at night and losing weight. On February 10th, I finally got an appointment with a doctor. Nothing has been found but we set up a follow-up appointment for a second consultation and a general exam. I will need a lot of blood work done for lab results to start coming back. Until then, nothing to worry about it until the phone rings and is my doctor!

The phone call that changed everything

His question is, "can I see you in my office tomorrow morning at 8?"

I said, can’t do it tomorrow I have some stuff going on at work, and he asked me, "can you talk for a few minutes right now?"

I knew right then and there even before he said it that I was in trouble, and I knew immediately what kind of trouble that was. What follows next is like a drama movie that I am watching, except it's my real life. I still remember the tone on his voice, so full of emotion and compassion for me in that moment. With me on the line with him trying to process his words about my HIV diagnosis, after some silence on the phone I finally say “thank you for your call, what is next?” That was my response. From day one I was so determined to fight and not feel sorry or ashamed or guilty. After the call I laid on my bed, thinking, processing what just happened.

Making a commitment to myself

That was the moment I made the commitment to myself to take this second chance that life to be happy. To enjoy every day as if it is the last day, but with the goal to live a long and healthy life. I needed someone to give me a hug. I found that when I told 2 beautiful people I know, they cried with me and gave me unconditional support and affection. Those are the moments that made me realize how valuable I am to them, to my family and to myself.

My new daily ritual

I started to take my medication on March 23rd.

Getting up every morning and taking my pill has become a ritual that reminds me that I am so lucky to have a whole health system. My doctor, the specialist doctor that I am also seeing, the nurses and lab technicians, my friends and family backing me up. I’m not alone in this fight. Thank you to all of those who have written in this community. Your stories and comments are very inspiring and I’m glad to join a beautiful group of people that doesn’t give up

Best regards

Oscar