Yarn

I did not know that I was at “risk of HIV” until after a Positive HIV test, and I did not know about PrEP, (HIV prevention). HIV and treatment get easier over time. I started treatment straight away and was undetectable within a few months. Keeping an undetectable viral load is good for your health because it stops the virus doing damage to your body and Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U) means you cannot pass HIV on.

At first it was hard to remember to take my medication, so I would set an alarm on my phone. If people asked, what is the alarm for? I would tell them, it is time to take my vitamins! Why do you take vitamins? I would tell them, to stay healthy. So, because I am undetectable, I do not have to worry about passing HIV on to my sexual partners. I see my doctor for regular check-ups and sexual health screening. Once my HIV is under control, I can focus on living my life.

Listen to Michael's Yarn here

Taz's Yarn

"As a Brotherboy I see there is a huge amount of stigma and misunderstanding of the needs of Brotherboys and a need for culturally safe and affirming testing sites and other service centres."

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Jane's Yarn

"Remember that being Sistergirl is strong and powerful, and we are resilient, so keep yourself safe at all times especially when having sex. Always love yourself no matter what."

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Jayden's Yarn

"As a gay man HIV has always been something that has scared me and sometimes has cause anxiety when having sex. Knowing the risks, I was always sure I used a condom which eased my anxiety during sex."

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Kirra's Yarn

"as a Sistergirl on PrEP I know I have taken the right steps to protect myself from HIV regardless of my gender and sexual life."

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Michelle's Yarn

"Life does not stop if your test comes back HIV Positive, you can still work, you can still play sport, Women can still have babies and we can drink from the same cup."

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Michael's Yarn

"Keeping an undetectable viral load is good for your health because it stops the virus doing damage to your body and Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U) means you cannot pass HIV on."

Read and Listen