Our Stories
Personal stories about living with HIV.
Alan's story:
When I was diagnosed with HIV 12 years ago, I was very sick and lost my job. Two years ago, I had become healthier thanks to treatment, but was really isolated. I needed to go back to work to feel part of something, to earn money and become independent. I had not been working since my diagnosis and I had no idea where to start. The careers advisor at Positive East, Sue, showed me how to look for work, make my CV attractive and complete applications. She also supported me in getting my IT skills up to date.
I felt a lot more confident and applied for a Primary School Mentor position. I was disappointed I didn't get the job, but Sue reassured me that I should not give up. She showed me an advert for a Teaching Assistant post and helped me apply. I was over the moon when they told me I got the job! Now I can take care of myself and my parents.
Sandra's story:
Sandra comes from Tanzania and was diagnosed with HIV after being sent to the hospital for renal failure and fever. At the time spoke very little English so she could not communicate with health and social care professionals. She was very depressed and isolated and could not cope with her HIV diagnosis.
She had housing, finance and immigration problems and was missing her children back home in Tanzania. She was encouraged to attend one of Positive East's support groups. At first she was shy and could not speak with the other members in English but as she attended more groups, she gained confidence. She now speaks a much better English and she has become a very commited group member.
"I now volunteer for Positive East and made a lot of friends."
Francis' story:
"I would urge all Africans to take the test. I had un-safe sex on more than one occasion – both here and in the Congo. I wanted to take the test for some time, but nerves and fear always got the better of me.
Not knowing played on my mind almost daily, to the point where it was affecting my work and my concentration. I saw a banner outside St. John's church in Hackney, advertising rapid HIV tests for Africans' and decided test there and then. Within fifteen minutes I'd received a negative result and the relief was immense. I can't believe that I'd spent so much time worrying when I need not have.
I intend to tell my friends and colleagues about this testing facility, as I know that some of them have the same anxieties around HIV. It feels so good to know and I feel empowered again."
