Hi all!! My name is Marie. I'm 49 years old and I was recently diagnosed with HIV. I've overcome so much adversity in my life—growing up in Detroit with a drug-addicted mother and being on my own at just 14 years old. Somehow, I managed to break generational curses, but in 2020 I faced one of the hardest losses of my life when I lost my oldest son. Through it all, I found strength in the military community and in groups like Gold Star Mothers. And now I am navigating yet another challenge: an HIV diagnosis. I retired from my healthcare career in surgery to focus on HIV awareness and prevention, specifically focusing on women and the heterosexual community.
Why Marie wants to be part of A Girl Like Me: I never expected it could or would happen to me and I certainly was not educated on prevention, as, in my opinion, marketing has always been geared toward the LGBTQ community or IV drug users. I personally have never known anyone living with HIV. I'm dedicated to learning and education. My story isn't over. I believe God is still using me, allowing me to continue as a source of strength and information for others who may be walking through their own storms. I look forward to supporting women everywhere!

Welcome
Welcome to our community, and thank you for your advocacy and voice!