As much as taking care of yourself (by taking your medication and leading a healthy lifestyle) is important, taking care of your emotional state (by staying positive) is just as important. There may be days where you feel like throwing in the towel and giving up. Here are 5 inspirational quotes about HIV to keep you going. 

“I am NOT HIV, I am LIVING with HIV. I am not the virus, the virus lives in me.” Brenda Lebogang Motsumi

Always know that living with HIV doesn’t change anything about you. There has been a lot of improvements in the medical world to ensure that people can lead normal and healthy lives while living with HIV. HIV doesn’t have the power to define your life’s path, only you do. 

“HIV does not make people dangerous to know, so you can shake their hands and give them a hug. Heaven knows they need it.” – Princess Diana 

HIV is transmitted through unsafe sex and the mixing of blood – it cannot be spread through showing affection like touching or hugging someone. Don’t be afraid to show some love

“One of the best ways to fight stigma and empower HIV positive people is by speaking out openly and honestly about who we are and what we experience.” – Alex Garner

Don’t be afraid to speak up when you need to. Ask questions, seek support and know that talking can be really helpful for you. Living a healthy life depends on you understanding your condition and knowing that it doesn’t make you less than anyone else.

“Don’t live your life for the virus.” – Musa Njoko

Living with HIV doesn’t mean that your life has to stop. You can still live your life to the fullest and achieve all of your dreams. 

“Being HIV positive doesn’t necessarily mean that you are going to die before each and every person who is HIV negative.” – Mokokoma Mokhonoana

Unlike the olden days where medication wasn’t easily accessible, living with HIV is not a death sentence. You can easily lead a healthy life by taking your medication, eating healthy, as well as engaging in protected sex at all times.

It will not always be easy but when those days come, read this article to remind yourself that living with HIV is not the end of your life and you can still live a long and healthy life. You are amazing, never forget that! 

For online support, you can call these numbers:

Circle of Life HIV and AIDS Support Group: 012 806 5295 

Contact the National AIDS Helpline: 0800 012 322 

National HIV Health Care Workers Hotline: 0800 212 506

Remember, if you need help or advice, you can speak to me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).