Nineteen years ago, I never imagined that I would one day have the strength to speak openly about my status in a leading HIV magazine. But here I am.

To share your story publicly, especially with strangers, is not easy. But it's powerful. Because you never know who's listening, who's waiting for confirmation that they're not alone...

When diagnosed, a person confides in me and trusts my guidance and love. I kill stigma one day, one person at a time. Doors are opening and I feel alive.

To my fellow survivors, advocates, and community members: keep speaking out. Keep demanding better.

I share this journey with you all because I feel safety in our sisterhood. I have a safe place to live. My outreach is thriving. I owe all this to a new perspective on me.

You brought me through trials to teach me who I can be. The one You designed me to be.

When we, as a community, have access to support, treatment, care, resources, a stake in what actually happens in our lives – we can change the trajectory of bloodlines for generations to come.

I no longer have the hatred I used to have for my friend, but I still have that trauma from before, and when I think back to that time, I cry.

Last year I had the pleasure of being part of Dandelions Movement writing workshop that brought more healing than I anticipated. Once upon a time I did enjoy writing - in my youth, when I had time.

He fought for all of us. For every person whose voice was being overlooked, Bryan showed up, spoke up, and stood in the gap. He was power, purpose, and love in motion.