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How Did You React Initially To Your Diagnosis? How Long Did It Take You To Accept/cope With It?

A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Jacksonville, FL

I need some inspiration today😔

February 4, 2021
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members shared raw and powerful stories about learning their HIV diagnosis, with many describing moments of shock, fear, betrayal, and... Read more

Members shared raw and powerful stories about learning their HIV diagnosis, with many describing moments of shock, fear, betrayal, and physical reactions like feeling their blood run cold or worrying more about loved ones than themselves. Several members found hope through immediate enrollment in treatment programs, supportive communities, and learning that modern HIV care has transformed the diagnosis from a death sentence into a manageable condition, with one member thriving undetectably since 1995. A recurring theme was that acceptance is not instant but an ongoing journey, often taking months or even years of therapy, education, and self-compassion to process the grief, anger, and fear while building toward hope and healing.

A myHIVteam Member

And you will. It's a moment in time that will be cemented in all our lives. For some it was inevitable for others a complete shock. For me, having a prior husband who had AIDS , I knew of what to expect. I was more angry at myself because I thought I should have known better. It took me awhile and I mean years of therapy , acting out and finally ...love...
to heal me ♥️🌈🙏

February 5, 2021 (edited)
A myHIVteam Member

I found out in the hospital. The doctor woke me up. Told me I was HIV positive and left. I didn't really think anything. I was out of it, and more mad that the dr just turned around and left. I called my ex, told him and went back to sleep. I had just got laid off from my job, and fired from my temp job for being sick. I was more worried about the bills and how I was going to afford my taxi ride home. The next morning the social worker told me I was sick, but how how sick. It was a couple months before I figured out 19 CD4 was Aids. I didn't really have an emotion response until I got moved and reemployed.

February 4, 2021
A myHIVteam Member

I was told after waking in recovery from cervical spine surgery. The doctor was a friend and by the end of the day I was enrolled in a drug trial. My partner was in a support group when he passed. They took me in. I was very lucky. That was 1995. I have been undetectable since and just got a great bill of health yesterday. You will survive and you will thrive. Smile and laugh. It will increase your immune system!!

February 4, 2021
A myHIVteam Member

A week or so but I knew I had a cheating ass bf and my moma warned me. So I educated my self on @poz.com and that took away most my worries.

February 4, 2021
A myHIVteam Member

Definitely apprexiate everyone for being open and supportive. I’m trying to gather strength and positivity through you all❤️🤗❤️🤗

February 4, 2021

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