Having HIV is no longer a death sentence now that someone can live a normal life. With recent medications and treatment options, this disease is considered manageable just like any other chronic disease. When HIV was first diagnosed in the world, it was considered a death sentence and the stigma attached brought about social isolation to almost all patients with the diagnosis, today, it is regarded as one of those chronic diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
If I were diagnosed with HIV, my immediate reaction would be shock, surprise, sadness, fear, concern over my future, depression, shame, and isolation. Despite all the shock, if there is someone that would tell me I can still leave a normal life and teaches me how to achieve it, I would go for it quickly in other to be there long enough for my family.…