Lucinda, 47
What I Want You to Know:
I cannot believe how people still have a skewed idea about who "gets" AIDS. We ALL can contract AIDS.
Why I think it's important to challenge HIV/AIDS stereotypes:
HIV/AIDS does not discriminate and affects people of all walks of life, all colors — from children to adults. It is not just found in one part of the world, but EVERYWHERE in the world, in your city, in your school, in your neighborhood. It is imperative that every one understands that educating themselves and those they love is the greatest gift they can give. Or receive.
How HIV/AIDS has affected my life:
I have known so many close friends and casual acquaintances who have lived with or been affected in some way by HIV/AIDS. Some lost their lives, some are still here, and some lost the ones they loved most.
Why I get tested:
I have been tested on a regular basis. My initial reason was blood that I received during a major surgery in the 80's. Blood testing was not at its best back then and some area hospitals had been reporting tainted blood. After that I felt it was imperative for everyone to get tested and practiced what I preached.
