A man from Co Down has bravely shared his experience with HIV for the first time, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and support on this year’s World AIDS Day. Eddie, who prefers to remain anonymous due to the stigma surrounding his diagnosis, contracted HIV after a new partner concealed their status from him.
Diagnosed 11 years ago, Eddie credits the charity Positive Life for providing crucial support that helped him cope with the overwhelming shame and stigma associated with his condition. The 61-year-old business consultant faced severe mental health challenges, even contemplating suicide during the darkest moments following his diagnosis.
At the time, Eddie was navigating the end of his marriage while entering a new relationship. He later discovered that his partner was aware of their own HIV status but chose not to disclose it. “My world fell apart. I was in what I felt to be a trusted relationship,” he said. “When I look back, it became obvious that they had known for some time.”
Eddie’s health began to decline when he turned 50. Following a visit to his general practitioner, he underwent an HIV test. “The GP said I was HIV positive. There was no discussion about what HIV was, just that I needed to go to the GUM clinic,” he recalled.
In Northern Ireland, the stigma surrounding HIV remains pervasive, with Eddie describing it as “the last taboo.” He chose to confide in only three close friends, keeping the diagnosis from his ex-wife and children. He even avoided necessary healthcare, including dental visits. “HIV can happen to anyone. Most people think it just affects gay men,” he stated. “We need to get the message out that anyone of any age or gender who is sexually active can get HIV.”
Positive Life, Northern Ireland’s only dedicated HIV charity, has played a pivotal role in Eddie’s journey towards acceptance. He reached out to the organization earlier this year, stating, “Had it not been for Positive Life, I wouldn’t be here to tell my story. I have finally begun to come to terms with my diagnosis through the amazing support and therapeutic counselling interventions they’ve provided for me.”
According to the Department of Health, there were 101 new HIV diagnoses in Northern Ireland last year, bringing the total number of individuals living with HIV to 1,439. Alarmingly, a recent health survey revealed that nearly one-fifth of people aged 16-34 are unaware of HIV, and fewer than one in three understand that someone on effective medication cannot transmit the virus.
Jacquie Richardson, the chief executive of Positive Life, emphasized the importance of testing and knowing one’s status. “Our message is get tested, know your status and end HIV,” she urged.
Eddie’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness, education, and compassionate support for those living with HIV. As he continues to navigate his journey, he hopes to inspire others to seek help and break the stigma that still surrounds the virus.
