How has your HIV status affected your family members and friends?

My family members originally were very frightened when I was diagnosed and they threw me out of their house. Now with more contact and information, they are supportive but cautious.

They are more worried at times about my health. Some of my friends know about my infection but others do not. I am very careful about who I tell about this serious heath issue. My friends who know are very supportive of me in many ways. They help remind me about how important it is take my medications every day; they take me out to dinner and to movies; they encourage me to do volunteer work with HIV organizations. Most of all they give me their love which helps me to continue living with hope.