JohneriO: How has your experience of living with HIV evolved over the past 20 years?
Timothy: My experience has evolved tremendously.
It was almost taboosomething people didnt talk about.
Fast forward to today, and the landscape has completely changed.
Timothy: The most pivotal moment was when I first found out I was HIV positive.
It forced me to grow up quickly and decide how I was going to handle it.
I chose to move forward, find the support I needed, and even create support systems for others.
That moment was when I discovered my strength.
Back then, support and educational resources were scarce.
JohneriO: What are some of the most significant advancements in HIV treatment and care that youve witnessed?
Timothy: The advancements in medication have been incredible.
Weve gone from people taking multiple pills a day to manage HIV to now having single-pill regimens.
And today, we have prevention methods that simply didnt exist before.
The support and resources have also improved dramatically.
Im also actively working to end the stigma surrounding HIV.
What Im most proud of is the recognition Ive received for my work in various communities.
It empowers me to keep going and gives my life a sense of purpose.
Timothy: My biggest hope is for a cure and to see the stigma around HIV completely erased.
I want people to fully embrace the care, treatment, testing, and prevention options available for HIV/AIDS.
JohneriO: What advice would you give someone who may have just found out about their HIV diagnosis?
Timothy: My advice is simple: keep going!
HIV is not a death sentence.
it’s possible for you to live a long, healthy life with HIV.
Remember, you have HIVit doesnt have you!
you’ve got the option to follow up him on Instagram at:@itsjohnerio.
