Well today is my first AIDS birthday. Though I know I have been infected for about 5 or 6 years, I was only diagnosed when I went in to hospital because I couldn't breathe and lost a good 60lbs, a year ago today. And what a diagnosis it was.. HIV, AIDS (CD4 35/VL 293,000), PCP, Oesophageal Thrush, Pancytopenia, full on funky rash and more.. A couple weeks in hospital, a couple of blood transfusions, starting meds straight away.. it all seemed to work out. Viral load was undetectable after a couple weeks and has stayed that way, and my CD4 is now 197, if not higher *fingers crossed*.
I've come a long way since then. I've regained my lost 60lbs (and then a couple extra), I used to cry heaps and worry about dying, but not anymore. When I first started meds I used to vomit everyday, and could not stay off the toilet. I swear I had the hershey's from the Abyss. Thankfully no more side effects, and I just pop those orange sustiva pills and truvada, like candy. I've left a relationship of 4 years, and I think that was a healthy thing for me to do at the time, and although I still live with my ex partner (who's negative btw.), we get on better than ever now. The break up wasn't HIV/AIDS related, it was a rocky boat way before that.
I still have my moments and moods just like the next person, but over all it's all good. I am happy to be able to have a life now, and I'm enjoying it a lot more.
I think coming here has helped the most with getting myself sorted emotionally. Meeting people who have been where I have, and are going where I am helps. Many of you guys are very close to my heart, even when I don't get on here much, which doesn't mean I don't think of you any less. And I have my definite favourites, and you know who you are, well I hope you do. I want to thank everyone who's posted in my threads offering support and advice.
Anyway, just wanted to say g'day, and post my 1 year HIV/AIDS diagnosis birthday post. It would have been a much bumpier ride without these forums and the people in them.
Love ya's all. Matt
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Blixer:
Hi Matt, Sounds like you have come a long way in the last year. Nice improvement in numbers and it sounds like your health is good too. I've been diagnosed less than a year and it sure did turn my life upside down. I'm just now feeling like I'm getting back into a routine and moving on with life. Best of luck on many more "anniversaries".
GSOgymrat:
You've come a long way. The labs are looking good and I'm sure things in your life are only going to improve. Woof! ;D
cubbybear:
Hey C, David & Ford thanks for the replies (and the Woof!) haha.
I'm definitely hoping for a lot more onward and upward yet on a lot of levels, I think that trend is happening.