You know that's a really great question because a lot of people don't really like to talk about that. I did lose my career unfortunately as an advertising exec in New York city. I was doing really well up until a few years. I really never thought about the full impact of stress on our numbers but in my fields we have quotas and goals so therefore there's a lot of stress. Having taken a Hiatus , I went back and realized that my T cells have dropped to the 100s and I needed to stop. I tried seven times since then and the doctor said that's it. So I had to retire and I find myself trying to figure out what my next step is.

I lost my career in the civil service after I was diagnosed, due to ill health, but am so glad I have a job in clinical trials now - much more rewarding doing something that benefits others.

HIV did not directly change my design career, but in ‘99 I switched to a large company because I felt more secure with their insurance. I retired from that job in ‘21.

I've been a professional tattooist since 1989 and still am. I'm not sure if my HIV status has affected my career, but I'm not secretive about and word does get around and ignorance and prejudice are rampant in my industry. It's a bitter pill to swallow, but I've dedicated my life to my career and I'll continue to ply my trade. It can be difficult coming to terms with HIV in some work sectors, especially a straight male dominated one like tattooing.

I still work in the same field I have always worked in. Food and beverage. I'm slowing down a bit but not too bad for 60