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Main Forums => I Just Tested Poz => Topic started by: jasonpoz12 on July 13, 2006, 06:45:50 pm

Title: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: jasonpoz12 on July 13, 2006, 06:45:50 pm
I just found out I am POZ 3 weeks ago since I have some symptoms for long time. I am so scared and sad. The HIV totally destroys my life. I guess I got the infection a couple years ago from a surgery.
 
I like to ask some questions about HIV treatment in Toronto. Hope I can get answers from the people in the family.

1: Are there good hospitals or clinics to treat the disease In Toronto? Is there almost the same drug line in Canada as in USA?
2: Can I easy to get any financial support and drugs support from Ontario.
3: In USA there is AIDS Drug Assistance Program to help people to get the free drugs, but in Ontario, Canada there is only Trillium Drug Program. For the Trillium Drug Program I can only get the assistance for the next year, right? Also there are two programs called Ontario Disability Support Program and Ontario Works; could I easily get in the two programs since I am POZ?

Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: wellington on July 14, 2006, 10:51:00 am
Although I'm near to Toronto, my situation is a little different than yours. I'd suggest getting in touch with the people at the Aids Committee of Toronto (ACT) as they will no doubt be able answer the many questions you pose here. Their website can be found at http://www.actoronto.org/.

I know I thought initially that HIV "destroyed" my life but I'm starting to see the clouds move from the skies - not just because it's a glorious summer - but also because of my outlook on life. HIV positive people still have lots and lots of life in them. Just take a look around at the helpful, supportive people here! I encourage you to also see the "good" and make the best of the situation you now find yourself in. It's not always easy but there's much in life yet to still appreciate. Enjoy it to the full.

Best,
Title: Re: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: AlanBama on July 27, 2006, 09:59:07 pm
Jason,

I'm sorry about your diagnosis.   It always makes me sad to welcome new people to the 'world of HIV'.   The good news is, many of us have lived a LONG time with this virus!  There is a good possibility you may never progress to AIDS, if you monitor your health and take charge of it early on.

Why are you thinking about disability?   Believe me, you do not want to be on disability.   Plan to go on with your life!   That may sound strange to you, but trust me, you can certainly lead a happy and productive life.

I do not know anything about services available to you in Toronto, but hopefully someone will be able to offer you some advice.

Good luck in your journey, and let us know how you are doing.

Hugs,
Alan
HIV positive since 1987
Title: Re: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: livingpositively on July 28, 2006, 11:08:19 am
Jason,

Sorry, I can't help with your Toronto questions.  But, welcome to the forums.  I'm sure someone will help you out with your questions - or at least be able to point you in the right direction.

Stay strong and welcome again.

Shane
Title: Re: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: Alain on July 28, 2006, 04:25:44 pm
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Title: Re: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: Alain on July 28, 2006, 04:38:44 pm
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Title: Re: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: Life on July 28, 2006, 10:21:51 pm
Jason....

Don't let HIV destroy your life... Allow it to add something to your life..  It depends on your point of view.  Right now your view is looking only one way.. But there are so many different ways to look at this..  Choose one that is positive for you.. As you learn and grow, these feelings WILL change..  Trust me... They will...

Welcome to the family...  I am not that much further along than you...  But I have been where you are now..

Love
Title: Re: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: purplerain on July 28, 2006, 10:47:57 pm
Jason,

I don't live in Toronto but wanted 2 say hi anyway.  U have already gotten some good advice.  I was just recently diagnosed myself so I feel the pain your going thru literally.  I have 2 agree though that our attitudes from here on out can make a HUGE difference. 

I know I don't know U but just reading your post I felt an instant connection. I was just in Toronto a year ago (loved it) also like I said just got diagnosed a month ago and 4 the record my name is Jason as well. One last thing before I go
Things will get better if u let them

Take care of Yourself, Keep your head up and if U ever need 2 talk we are always here

From one Jason 2 another BIG HUGZ
Jason
Title: Re: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: jasonpoz12 on July 29, 2006, 12:47:29 pm
I didn’t check my own post for a couple of days. Today I found there are so many responses for me. I feel really warm in my heart. We are POZ people, but we are not alone, we are a family. Thank you very much for your guys’ advice and encouraging word.

Already more than one month past I gradually accept the fact and with the anti-depressant drugs I still keep on working and I started HARRT treatment 4 days ago. But I have new problem. My CD4 is too low, CD4 count is only 5. I really worry if I can survive from this disease. I will put a new post to ask direct experiences and advice about treatment from very low CD4 count.
Title: Re: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: Alain on July 29, 2006, 03:16:19 pm
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Title: Re: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: jasonpoz12 on July 29, 2006, 04:12:04 pm
Alain.

Thank you very much for your concern and useful information of Toronto.

I am under treatment now. Finally I will go back to Toronto if I stop work or am very sick. Your information of Toronto will be very useful for me to seek health care at that time.
Title: Re: Questions about HIV Treatment and Drug Assistance in Toronto
Post by: Beatz4me on August 03, 2006, 01:48:27 pm
Jason.....Toronto here as well...

I go to the Maple Leaf Clinic on Carlto/ Church..It is a great palce with a lot of caring and understanding people.

Drop me a line if you need more info...Some doctors are taking new patients.

Hugz