Interview with a Yup'ik Male who is HIV Positive - continued

What have you learned about HIV/AIDS since your diagnosis?

I feel that I am more sensitive to those who are not informed and this includes families of those who are positive. I try and keep informed of the latest developments in research on anti-HIV medicines, trends in our populations, effective interventions for preventions, and many other more.

What would you recommend to someone on how to live with HIV? Living a healthy life with HIV?

I would encourage anyone to be active in your own care. Most providers who specialize in HIV are probably the most sensitive providers you will encounter. They are trained to provide the best quality care for their patients, do not be afraid to ask questions regardless of how inadequate you may feel AND take advantage of services that are available to you, especially when you have a lot on your mind.

Have you disclosed your status and how did you disclose to your family/relatives? Friends? Colleagues? Other community members? Please explain.

I have not disclosed my status to my family or relatives. There are a few people that I have told but it was not easy even though I knew that my friends would support me and be there for me. Keeping my status private has been one of the most difficult things that I have endured. I am not exactly sure when I will have the courage to share this with them. I feel comfortable talking to others who are in the same situation but I feel that I am not ready to put myself out there. I feel like I have an obligation to protect my parents, my siblings and my extended family from the ugliness that exists out there because of ignorant persons. Quite different from my previous work where I was advocating for those who are HIV positive!

What other things would you like to share for others who are living with the disease, their relatives and providers?

Since this disease is so stigmatized by society, I would encourage those who are positive to remain strong, to try and maintain a healthy attitude. For relatives who have found out about the status of a relative, the best thing that you can do is be there for them. They need your love and support. Take time to talk to them and learn from them. This may not be easy at first but I think as you learn more about how you can support a healthier lifestyle for your loved ones, the better they would be. For providers, as human beings, you will make mistakes and when you do, admit them and ask for forgiveness. Being honest with the person(s) you are treating is something that I would expect because that would show me that my provider cares. Learn to accept the individual where they are at and work with them towards a healthier lifestyle and try to refrain from being judgmental.

Anything else you would like to share for others to hear or learn?

This disease has pushed our society and communities' morals and values. People who are misinformed or not educated tend to be mean and afraid of persons with HIV. Pick your battles when you come across persons who are homophobic, ignorant, mean, uneducated and disrespectful. I continue to have faith in humanity and hope you will too!

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