TONYA’S STORY

I was diagnosed seven years ago with the HIV virus. When I was given my diagnoses, I could not believe it. My first thoughts was to end my life, how could I tell my family, church members, and friends. I disconnected myself from everyone and shut down until I was referred by a doctor to Sacred Heart HIV/AIDS Care Services for case management services.

The AIDS care staff worked with me to overcome the shame and guilt I was carrying around inside me. I started to attend support groups and found out that I was not alone, there were several other women infected with the HIV virus just like me.

Since working with Sacred Heart HIV/AIDS Care Services, I have been able to disclose my status to my pastor and his wife, who have been a wonderful spiritual support for me. I have disclosed my status to all my children and family members, who have turned out to be a wonderful support system.  The support system that I would like to thank the most at this time is the support and assistance I get with the AIDS care staff at Sacred Heart; they have made a huge difference in my life.

I am still attending Sacred Heart HIV/AIDS Care Services support groups and I am able to tell my story in hopes that I can touch, help other females who have been newly diagnosed and assure them that they will be fine. I recently became engaged to be married and was very lucky and blessed to find a partner who is caring and able to handle being with an HIV positive person. 

The information that I have learned through attending meetings has helped me educate my partner on the practices of safer sex so we do not infect him. Sacred Heart HIV/AIDS Care Services has truly been a blessing and I thank God everyday for giving me the courage to make that call.

-Tonya