north america

north america

stories

The following stories were contributed to our website. Please note that the stories have not been edited and is presented the way they were received.

My name is Amanda and I am 19 yrs old. I found out recently that I am HIV positive. I was shocked, devastated. This couldn't happen to me. What did I do? How did this happen? I thought this only happened to people in Africa. I have never seen or heard anyone talk about AIDS. It is 4 months since I found out I am positive but I am afraid to tell my parents. What will I tell them? What should I do? I am terrified. I know what will happen if I don't get some treatment. I have been reading up secretly so no one will suspect. When someone begins to ask me a question, my heart stops. I think they may know about my status. Life is miserable and I am always confused, angry and afraid. My parents are divorced and they don't make much money. We don't have insurance. I am going to die.I am definitely going to die. It helps me to go to websites and type up my story, I feel like I am talking to someone. No one knows who I am or where I am. I am confused. It is one of those times when you feel like you want to be a bay without a care in the world. Is that possible? Can I become one? It is too far-fetched, if I can become a baby I am sure we will have a cure for this disease. Anyone reading this story, remember this sickness is too close to home than you think. Make good choices, learn from my mistake. Be careful and help me.

- Amanda, USA

I found out 2 years ago that my daughter's husband is HIV positive. My daughter was tested and she is negative. My son-in-law is taking several medications to keep his health from deteriorating. He has been fairly stable. But every day, my wife and I live in fear. Not knowing who or what the next call will be from. Will it be from our daughter bearing some bad news? She has decided to stay with her husband. We support her but I realize that people in all countries do not receive the same support from their family. Nether can they afford the medicines. Every day, I turn on the news hoping for a miracle. A cure for AIDS. God help us!

- Craig, USA.

reality:stories