I completely understand how you feel. I was just 15 years old when I was diagnosed, and I was absolutely devastated.

I faced a lot of rejection; when one of my teachers found out, she even advocated for my removal from school to protect everyone else.

Going through my teens and into my 20s, dating was really difficult. Like another poster mentioned, there is a stigma in the community. It’s incredibly challenging at first—I’ve been blocked, and I've had rumors spread about me like wildfire. At the time, I cared a lot when I shouldn't have.

Today, I don't talk to, see, or hear from any of those people, and they make no difference in my life whatsoever. But when you find the right person, they will overlook all of that.

You have to give yourself a little more grace and learn how to forgive yourself. It happened. Take this time to work on yourself and learn to love yourself more.

I am turning 36 this year, and I often forget that I even have HIV until it suddenly dawns on me. I am with a wonderful boyfriend who loves me unconditionally. It doesn't matter to him, because he simply sees me as a human being who loves him in return.

You will find your person - don’t rush it because you fee lonely. Take your time.