Living with HIV doesn’t mean giving up on life

At the age of 28, he began to feel unwell and went to the Sancti Spíritus Central Polyclinic; doctors ordered the necessary tests, and the results confirmed the presence of HIV. Following this diagnosis, he began treatment and received the guidance needed to understand that the disease did not mean the end of his life.

“Some time ago, I started feeling unwell and went to the Sancti Spíritus Central Polyclinic. The doctors there advised me and ordered the appropriate tests. They detected that I was HIV-positive, so they began implementing the necessary measures—starting the required treatment and providing the medication. They guided me, explaining that as long as a patient follows all the requirements, takes their medication, and stays compliant, they can live a normal life just like anyone else—dying of something else, not necessarily this—provided they take care of themselves and protect the people they have sexual relations with.”

Today, he states that his viral load is undetectable—a condition confirming the treatment’s effectiveness and allowing him to look to the future with greater peace of mind. “I’ve felt much better since starting treatment; I’ve gained weight, my viral load is undetectable, and things are much better. All the associated ailments cleared up—the symptoms, headaches, and fevers are gone. The staff caring for me—both men and women—have a relationship with me based on friendship, guidance, and support, just as they do with all patients. It is support that is medical and professional, but also friendly.”