Anonymous

Trigger Warning: Discriminatory actions against People Living with HIV

"My journey with HIV has been a rollercoaster ride. With my whole career at stake, I was more worried about my career rather than my health. I wasn't worried about how I got it; I was more worried about who I could have given it to.

I was admitted to the hospital for some medical procedure and in the preliminary tests, I was diagnosed with HIV. My heart sank when the doctor first told me. The doctors were empathetic and made my process of understanding easier.​

The thought of losing my career was very painful because I had worked really hard to secure a job. But my whole world was shattering in front of my eyes, while I was in pain due to the medical procedure. It was the lowest point of my life. ​

My employer had rejected me based on my HIV diagnosis while saying some derogatory comments and asking me personal questions. Keeping my HIV status from my parents was hardest because I had to give them a reason why my employer had let me go. Nevertheless, they always supported me in my choices and decisions. I am very happy that I didn't work for my previous employer; rather, I came to Canada to do further studies and to live a better life.

Over the course of 5 years, I have learned that HIV isn't something that can define me. It will only take me down if I let it. But if I aim to achieve higher and to be happy, it will make me stronger. 

I've concurred some hard times in my life. This makes me appreciate even more the life that I have and the success I may achieve in the future."