HIV cure

As I think about what I want to be, It doesn't cross my mind, my HIV...

We have the tools to set us free; But our barriers are too long to mention

I don't have much education in the field of science, but I am completely enthralled with the science behind the search for a cure for HIV.

We may not have a cure, but one thing is sure, we have the right people on the case...

I advocate for cure research with an open mind and open heart... Personally, I am free from the burden of needing a cure. It's a "nice-to-have", not a "need-to-have".

HIV cure work is something that is beginning to fascinate me. Having the opportunity to be in spaces where this is the topic of discussion, I have learned so much about the virus.

Me decían que lo que me mataría serían mis medicinas no el virus. Y sé, con certeza, que estaban equivocados... Cuando llegué a Estados Unidos en 2001, empecé tratamiento. Cuatro semanas después ya estaba indetectable.

They told me that my medication would kill me, not the virus. And I know for a fact they were wrong... When I came to the United States in 2001, I started treatment. Four weeks later, I was undetectable.

It all seemed like talk – until it happened... Words could never do this journey justice. But I will try.

The year was 1991. I was just diagnosed with HIV. I was 18 years old and my dream was to become a marine.