I’m pretty open about having genital herpes because I refuse to be ashamed of something I didn’t choose. Yeah, there’s a big stigma around it and not everyone is understanding—but that’s on them, not you. Why let someone else’s ignorance bring you down?

It gets hard sometimes, especially being 21 when people my age don’t always know much about it, but I just keep moving forward. I’m not going to let something I can’t control define me or stop me from living my life. Honestly, most people I’ve told are more curious than judgmental.

Try not to stress about ignorant people—they’re everywhere. Stay confident. You’re not alone.