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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Richmond, VA

For me no. I try to not be defined by my health, race, political, religious, sexuality, education status

I try to find connections with people who have external similarities. Hobbies, activism, philosophical minds, cooking enthusiasts and things of that nature attract me to others. Not how many pills did I take today, and gee I have several doctors appointments coming up.

Sit me in front of the TV with a kung fu movie marathon on and I'm high lol. Drop me off at the Goodwill auction and… read more

August 15
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Reactions
A myHIVteam Member

No. No one knows I have HIV unless I tell them. And even so, what are they going to do about it? Other than talk about me. And these days its more than likely a pot calling a kettle black. It's not like me to act like someone is better than me just because I have a disease. I've been blessed over the years. I have had great men in my life. Gay and straight. So although I know stigma from books and I remember the 80's and 90 like it was yesterday. It wasn't my experience. I got over the gay stigma thing years ago. And HIV stigma went hand in hand with that. It's to hard to be a house husband, an employee and an HIV patient. Sometimes all in the same day. And be imprisoned by HIV.

August 16
A myHIVteam Member

Me too, everyday is a blessing ❤️

August 18
A myHIVteam Member

I am happy with myself doing the things I like to do is a blessing I enjoy every day that the lord wakes me up

August 17
myHIVteam

What a refreshing and genuinely inspiring perspective! Refusing to let HIV — or any label — define who you are is not just emotionally healthy, it can actually support better overall wellbeing while living with HIV.

Finding joy in kung fu marathons and Goodwill auction treasure hunts? That's self-care in its purest, most Show Full Answer

What a refreshing and genuinely inspiring perspective! Refusing to let HIV — or any label — define who you are is not just emotionally healthy, it can actually support better overall wellbeing while living with HIV.

Finding joy in kung fu marathons and Goodwill auction treasure hunts? That's self-care in its purest, most authentic form. 🥋🛍️ Many myHIVteam members share this mindset. One myHIVteam member put it beautifully: *"After years of feeling like I need to be better, stronger, healthier, and in control, I now know I am enough."*

Connecting with others through shared passions rather than shared struggles is a powerful way to live fully. It keeps life rich and reminds everyone around you that HIV is something you *have* — not something you *are*.

That kind of self-acceptance can also strengthen your relationship with your healthcare provider, keeping you motivated and engaged in managing your health on your own terms.

August 15

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