finding balance

Esta compilación de historias es solo uno de los esfuerzos de Christie's Place para hacer algo por la falta de visibilidad de las mujeres que viven con el VIH. Nuestro objetivo es fomentar un cambio cultural en las narrativas dañinas que permiten que persista el estigma relacionado con el VIH.

This compilation of stories is just one approach Christie's Place has made toward addressing the visibility of women living with HIV. We aim to encourage a cultural shift in harmful narratives that enable HIV-related stigma to persist.

I believe that by being open about my experience, I can help dismantle the myths and misconceptions about living with HIV. Every life has those pivotal moments, the ones that change everything.

This year, I had the privilege of attending my first conference of the year—and let me tell you, I needed it. I needed the reminder of why I do this work.

I come here when things are rough. When my head is so full I have to put it on paper. I can't say that I put it all here.

I don't feel like myself at all. I have often heard people talk about how they lose themselves after they have kids, that's where I feel I am.

What's the balance in life as a regular human being with needs, wants and desires that just so happens to also be a person living with HIV who simply desires to live a normal non-stigmatized life?

I recently celebrated my 34th birthday on July 4th and I must say it is on my top five list of favorites. Let me tell you why. Earlier this year I made it a point to do things I enjoy doing and to treat myself better.

Words have tremendous power. That dumb ass saying about sticks and stones makes sense to say to kids, because its coming from an adult perspective with the experience of having learned to deal with the pain of harsh words.

It's time to heal, to rediscover my voice, and to move forward with renewed energy and purpose. Here's to new beginnings and the power of community in lifting each other up.