HIV diagnosis

I want to blog for A Girl Like Me because it is the most encouraging combined force of powerful women, people and allies, speaking out and showing solidarity.

Diagnosed in 1987 in US Navy basic training at 22 years old, making me currently a 36 year survivor.

At one point I really thought I wanted a road map for this life with HIV. Like, really, really wanted a road map. I wanted more than just "you're not going to die."

Let me tell you how my HIV diagnosis led to me at New York Fashion Week. I attended my routine check-up as usual. I was triaged and after being placed in the exam room, my doctor asked to speak with...

Maybe you do need to start again. I encourage you to keep trying because there is always a new day. A new moment. A new opportunity. Yes, there will be another time to try again or simply recreate a new path.

I would like to be a part of A Girl Like Me to show the positive side of living with HIV. I would like to be the face of inspiration to help those who struggle with stigma daily.

HIV can teach us many things. Once you find out you have HIV, it will be a lifelong journey of medication. Along with medication, there are other ways we can live well with HIV. I talk to Bridgette...

Hola. Mi nombre es Alessandra Blásquez. Fui diagnosticada en abril del 2004. A mí no me afectó mucho saber que era positiva porque ya sabía que existía medicamento...

Hello. My name is Alessandra Blásquez. I was diagnosed in April of 2004. I wasn't that worried when I learned I was HIV positive because I knew I could be treated.

It took me a while to realise that the judgment I felt came from within. I understand that I can only take responsibility for how I feel and my emotions.