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Main Forums => Living With HIV => Topic started by: Eldon on December 01, 2006, 03:06:58 am

Title: ~
Post by: Eldon on December 01, 2006, 03:06:58 am: Hi, my name is Eldon. I am a 38 year old single male and I have been HIV positive for (16) sixteen years. I am a current resident of Florida the Sunshine State.

MY PERSONALITY

My outgoing nature, understanding of others, and directness makes me ENCOURAGING. I want to help others to do well for themselves, and I generally believe in their abilities. When I care about someone, I don't keep it to myself: I am good at letting people know that I am thinking of them. Because I trust people, I take violations of that trust very seriously.

I also thrive in social situations, and even though I know who I like and who I don't like, I can interact well with many different types of people. I DO have a healthy respect for people who have earned what they have, and I also strive to be similar to successful others.

"I am a LOYAL friend and a GOOD listener". I'm well-attuned to my emotional state, and not afraid to let my conscious be my guide. I DO tend to be cooperative, rarely contradicting others, and always considerate of others feelings.

MY EDUCATION

Criminal Justice, Pre-Law, Human Behavior, Property Management and Appraisal, Programming in C+, Programming in Fox Pro, Information Technology, Security Services, Word Processing, Accounting, Collections, Business Management.

MY WORK EXPERIENCE

Broiler Chef, Stock Clerk, Inventory Clerk, Word Processor, Defined Contributions Management, Construction Superintendent, Project Management, Accounting, Collections, Corrections Officer, Security Officer, Sales Management, Human Resources Manager, Information Technology, International and Domestic Insurance, Legal Services, Mortgages, Real Estate, Field Sales Consultant and Health Information Services.

MY SELF-EMPLOYMENT

Information Technology, Legal Services, and Supplemental Health Insurance.

MY HOBBIES

Music, Movies, and Travel

MAJOR TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Atlanta, Chicago, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Texas, Denver, Portland, Massachusetts, Virginia, South Carolina, Washington D.C., Vancouver, BC. I was born and raised in Miami, Florida.

WHEN I BECAME HIV POSITIVE

It had come to my “awareness” in August of 1990 (16 years ago) that I was tested for HIV and I was positive. How this was found out was through a routine blood test that was administered by Blue Cross/Blue Shield. I was told the news in the parking lot of my job! On top of that, it was at lunch time! Following the breaking news, left in a state-of-shock which had altered my state-of-mind, I had to go back into the office on the 8th floor and face all of my co-workers and my bosses to finish working the remainder of the day.

Do you want to talk about tough? That was tough. I am thankful to the Great Divine, Yes God. That I was able to reach within me and find my inner strength and my inner courage to make it through the day. It was tough to keep a smile on my face and a positive attitude when I had this automatic inner anxiety which was triggered by the external anxiety of being infected with HIV/AIDS.

With my initial experience or “awareness” of becoming infected with HIV. I took me a moment to get-a-grip on what was going on in my highly successful life. To comfort and re-assure my strength within, I immediately disclosed to my parents, brothers, and my sisters. I also share with you that it has helped me tremendously with my current support system.

Inside of me I knew that this was an incurable virus. I had to accept that first. I did. Then I understood what could or could not be as a result of this. Then, I communicated it with my family, some friends and my Doctor. I did not go on anti-virals immediately, I just started meds this year of 2006. Through it all I have never gotten sick. Yes, I am very thankful. After the initial shock as I was at the crossroads in my life, I had made the choice to take a hold of my life and to continue on with my life. During the interim, I spent a great deal at the Gym with Free Weights, Jogging and Aerobics. Also at the time I had my beloved that was there with me as we cared for and supported each other.

I continued to live my life as I saw fit and partied in the clubs and even DJ’d at some raves. I continued to work and I kept an eye on my health through the years. What has pulled me through all of this is my Spirituality and my faith in the Great Divine along with a positive attitude and outlook on life.

ANTI-VIRALS

I did not start taking meds until 2006 this year. I am currently on Epzicom & Reyataz, and I also take a multi-vitamin as well as (Omega 3 (EPA supports heart health, reduces inflammation and improves cellular integrity. DHA supports memory and nervous system functioning.)

LAB RESULTS

Here are my results as of 2006 this year.

2/10/2006   56   9,260   5
6/27/2006   127   < 400   11
8/10/2006   137    <147   7
11/28/200 144     <75   9

Everyone knows that it takes time with the climb. A Genotype was done because there was a discussion to switch over to Sustiva and Truvada. I will keep you updated on that developing story.

Your curiosity has now been satisfied.

Make the BEST of each Day!
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: gerry on December 01, 2006, 03:25:15 am: Hi Eldon,

Just wondering why there's discussion about a switch to Sustiva/Truvada when you've already reached undetectable on Reyataz/Epzicom and your CD4 seem to be recovering? Also, what was the timing of the genotype test? Unless it was done when your viral load was still detectable, it would not be useful in deciding the switch (since there is not enough viral load to detect any mutation). You should also consider taking PCP prophylaxis (such as Bactrim or Dapsone) since your CD4 is still below 200. Sorry for the unsolicited advice.

Gerry
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: Eldon on December 01, 2006, 03:30:03 am: Hi Gerry,

Your suggestions are welcomed. I will discuss this with my Doctor on my next visit.

Make the BEST of each Day!
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: tendai on December 01, 2006, 05:43:27 am: hie Eldon, nice to know you..
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: fearless on December 01, 2006, 06:09:43 am: Hi Eldon.
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: poet on December 01, 2006, 06:24:09 am: Thanks, Eldon. I can remember back a bit when I was brand new here, posting all sorts of things and some of the readers started to press me on who I was and where I was coming from. Of course I assumed that it would simply come out, post by post, but that is hard to collect for someone. You have given us, curious or not, a much, much fuller picture of the man behind the posts. Win
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: skeebo1969 on December 01, 2006, 09:21:47 am: Yes I am a bit surprised she does not have you on Bactrim myself. She told me yesterday that she likes to keep her patients on it when their cd4's are so low. Although I would have only done so if told by a doctor before, after what she explained yesterday I am now a firm believer that Bactrim is important to me right now. Also was told it could be the culprit behind the night sweats, so just be prepared if she puts you on it.

I can see now why you and the others got so offended the other day. I did not realize I was asking all this. I would have taken exception also if I was told to give my education, hobbies, interest, and very personal and sensitive information. My bad and a lesson learned from you Eldon... Apology #1.

Also now that I see you are on medication, I see that I misunderstood you in the Positive thinking thread. I thought you were saying that you were just going on the power of positive thinking and that you were not on meds, along with telling others that they could do the same. My bad lesson learned from you Eldon this morning....Apology #2

The fact that you handled it so well as a twenty one year old back when it was still considered a death sentence speaks highly of your resolve. Yes the Eldon we know of today was already the strong man then... Incredible, absolutely that is. I see now that the power of positive thinking was something you had back then and now know why you are so adamant about practicing it now... It has served you well. I read and saw that you mentioned your father and shared a frank discussion that you had with him on "thinking positive". I gather and I hope I am correct in thinking that your relationship with your parents is a good one... I really am a firm believer that we are all a product of our upbringing and it seems you are a product of two fine parents.

Eldon thanks for sharing!

Thomas
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: ACinKC on December 01, 2006, 09:54:29 am: Hi, Eldon nice to meet you! Are you new here?!!?!??!?!

LOL.. So you're NOT Dutch.. Hmmmmmmmmmm this is curious.....
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: MSPspud on December 01, 2006, 10:02:06 am: Hi Eldon, I am glad you've decided to make much of this information public. I had known bits and pieces and had actually dug through the achieves to see you mentioned that very regimen in the old forum at one time. None the less, I think this was necessary. Not everyone has to go through formal introductions (esp in the beginning as they warm up), but after 1500 posts it's a good thing.
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: kcmetroman on December 01, 2006, 10:48:36 am: Great read Eldon. Sorry you were put up against the wall to post it.

Now get your butt out there today and spread some love.
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: ACinKC on December 01, 2006, 10:53:10 am: KC... are you telling him to spread his cheeks?
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: allopathicholistic on December 01, 2006, 11:04:37 am: Quote from: MSPspud on December 01, 2006, 10:02:06 am
Not everyone has to go through formal introductions (esp in the beginning as they warm up), but after 1500 posts it's a good thing.

:D :D ROFL JASON!!!!! :D :D :D

Eldon: Thank you. And yup, as you said, "it takes time with the climb"!!

All: Pray for Eldon if the Spirit moves you 8)
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: Life on December 01, 2006, 11:06:16 am: Eldon!!

Thank you...
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: Dan J. on December 01, 2006, 11:07:44 am: HI Eldon!

I always enjoy reading your post & this was no exception.

:-* Dan
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: Queen Tokelove on December 01, 2006, 02:49:36 pm: Great read, Eldon. You seem to be quite a fascinating person, indeed.
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: cph9680 on December 01, 2006, 03:06:26 pm: Bravo, Eldon! Quite a life you lead and have lead! Glad to see there's someone out there who is making the most of each day ;D

Corey
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: angels4kelly on December 01, 2006, 07:55:26 pm: Hello Eldon ;D
Thanks so much for sharing that and allowing us to know you a bit better.
Peace,
Kelly(http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g142/angels4kelly/file00912121212.gif)

(http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g142/angels4kelly/moonlight3.jpg)
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: Eldon on December 01, 2006, 08:59:48 pm: Let me pick up where I left off. As it is noted, I DO take the time out to respond to each and every one of you to attempt to give it a more personal interaction which is something all of us can use in this life.

Hey Tendai...

It is nice to know you just as well.

Hey Fearless...

The little yellow dog cracks me up. LOL!

Hey Poet...

Thank you also for your interaction and your valued perception just as well.

Hey Thomas...

Indeed you are a very interactive member of this forum. That is a GOOD thing. In fact, Bactrim was discussed during a prior appointment with the Doctor.

Your apologies are also accepted. I am happy to see that a understanding has taken place. As it is noted, when an understanding takes place, then the state of perception changes in more ways than one.

As you have seen, through it all, it was through my Positive Thinking along with my Spirituality which has kept me intact all of these years. It is a part of me and I am so thankful that it is. As far as the folks are concerned, they do care just as well and we have our understanding with each other.

Yes, they are dynamic in more ways than one. When I look at my other friends and their situations, it makes me just that more thankful and convicted to reach my hand out to help others just as well. It is all about sharing the good things in this life that we have experienced.

Hey ACinKC...

No, I am not dutch. I have a Greek background in the history of my family. Greeks love art. It is fascinating. LOL!

Hey Jason...

My man, in your own way you ROCK!!! and Yes, you do have a very valid point as it has been noted. So who was that masked man? LOL!

Hey John...

I still remember the other post you had made to make me look. That was indeed clever and it was funny as hell!!! Oh Yes, when I woke up I was filled with Joy and inspiration ready to share it.

Hey Alex...

You are also an inspiring individual in your own way. In fact, it stands out in more ways than one. Where is the Pillsbury Dough Boy? Who has him hostage? LOL!

Hey Eric...

My man...LOL!!! You are welcome and I welcome you to infuse your day with the experiences that you have been through.

Hey Danj...

Thanks A million.

Hey Queen Akasha...

You are also a fascinating gal. You are straight up and indeed got the vision.

Hey Corey...

You have me just giggling inside as I type through this. Oh yes, it has been quite a journey. Through it all I have done my Damnest to remain as positive as I could. Thanks A Million.

Hey Kelly...

OMG!!! You are like my little Angel of Light that is sitting on the sidelines eating your popcorn and you got a frosty from Wendys. LOL! Girl, how much I appreciate your interaction and not to mention your dynamic creativity with your Graphics that you infuse inside of your threads. After all Florida is the Sunshine State. LOL!

I was wondering where you have been. It is GOOD to see you once again and with your interaction.

NOW...I should have included this in my initial post. I would like for each and everyone to listen to this tune. It is by the group called JOURNEY. Oh Yes, it was a Revelation the other day while I was out shopping. So here goes. Listen to the words of the song. It says SOOO much. Spread the word with the others who have come and gone to read this thread.

"Here I Am With Open Arms" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTMzPpwc36M)

You see everyone, there is a reason for the internet. There is a reason for us in this life. There is a reason for YOUTUBE. In fact, there is a reason for XTUBE. The list goes on and on.

THERE IS A REASON.

I sincerely wish to each and every one of you the BEST in all of your endeavors in this life as you walk along on each of your individual journeys.

"Make the BEST of each Day...You can if you Try"
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: Jeffreyj on December 02, 2006, 04:02:36 am: Hi Eldon,
Nice to get to know you a little better. I'm a bit surprised you are not on Diflucan or bactrim, being that your t-cells are under 200. I'd seriously look into that!
How many bro's and sisters do you have? Are you the baby like me (youngest of 3 brothers here)

Take care and stay healthy!
Jeff
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: AtomicA on December 02, 2006, 05:24:01 am: Aw shucks Eldon, so it turns out you are one of them 'old timers' too.
well, I think you are the bees knees.

- yes, bees do have knees... as a matter of fact I caught one and looked at it under a microscpe because seeing as I say that fequently I thought I should know a little something about them. Seeing as a bee's knee is a fabulously complicated and marvelous little invention of nature (they have a mini little kneecap and everything), and that there are six of them... I truly understand now why that saying has relevance.

Did you ever have medical problems staying off the drugs so long?
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: allopathicholistic on December 03, 2006, 10:09:45 am: Quote from: AtomicA on December 02, 2006, 05:24:01 am
Aw shucks Eldon, so it turns out you are one of them 'old timers' too.
well, I think you are the bees knees.

Bees knees! That's too adorable to not steal!
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: RevMC on December 03, 2006, 11:45:17 am: Hi Eldon,

I'm glad to get to know you better. TY for sharing the information about yourself. I see your not really that far away from me. I'm in Land O Lakes, FL (Pasco County) just north of Tampa. Maybe someday we can work something out and get to meet in person. And I didn't realize you were an "old timer" ;D like me

I guess now I'll have to post a thread like this about me then ;)

Just wondering if I should post some juicy details or not <EG>

Love and Light,

Rev. Michael
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: Eldon on December 03, 2006, 07:51:56 pm: Hey Jeffreyj...

So how are things out there in those mountains? Your care and your consideration to care has been noted.

Hey Adam...

To answer your question, through it all I have been rather healthy. I have not experienced any major medical problems because of staying off of the meds for so long. The Doctors have x-rayed and checked everything and all looks well. In fact, my iron level is above normal. Side effects? A small little rash that's about it.

Alex...

I know, Bees Knees?

Hey Michael...

You are on. It sounds like a date. Perhaps we can meet before the next year's AMG fest. I will e-mail you to see what we can arrange. My aunt and some other relatives are over in the Tampa area. In fact, there are some others just as well in the city. Maybye we could do a small little party of some sort. We'll see.

Happy Holidays!!!
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: Angel-Ronnie on December 04, 2006, 12:58:09 am: Eldon thank you for sharing your experiences with us and about your life. Hopefully some minds will be put at ease know that they have read this thread. You are an inspiration to some of us.

much love

Angel
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: Eldon on December 04, 2006, 01:00:10 am: Hey Angel,

Thank you, you are an inspiration just the same.

Happy Holidays!
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: RevMC on December 04, 2006, 10:34:16 am: OH MY GOSH!!!!

A potential date with Eldon!! Now Now, it's only a friendship date ;)
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: Christine on December 04, 2006, 02:55:35 pm: Hi Eldon,
It's nice to meet you! Thanks for sharing your story, and thanks for helping me to focus on the positive side of things and to focus on keeping myself mentally and spiritually healthy.
Christine
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: Eldon on December 04, 2006, 08:05:06 pm: Hey Michael!

You are on! I am also just as excited for our potential date!!! LOL!

Hey Christine!

You are also another one of my angels of light and you bring JOY inside of my heart. Thanks!

Happy Holidays!

Now Playing: Rare Earth - Get Ready
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: RevMC on December 04, 2006, 08:29:45 pm: Hmmm, I usually don't kiss on the first date

Other things maybe ROFLMAO

thump

OUCH, I fell on the floor
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: red_Dragon888 on December 25, 2006, 08:49:50 am: Have my curiosity been sated? I'm not sure. I still feel hungry :D
Title: Re: About Eldon...
Post by: rkeat25 on December 25, 2006, 09:10:49 am: Hi Eldon,

Now I feel like I know you the way others know me from reading my blog posts. Thanks for sharing and take care of yourself.

ronnie