Living with HIV

Gemma's story

"I thought my life was over, that I'd never see my daughter grow up"

HIV is a life threatening condition, affecting 32,000 adults and children in the UK. However, with early diagnosis, the right medication and support, a person can expect live up to 44 years after diagnosis. This is about the same as someone with juvenile diabetes.  However, there is still a huge stigma attached to HIV, and misconceptions about the condition, which can be a huge psychological burden for a person who is newly diagnosed.

Gemma was diagnosed HIV positive when pregnant with her 3 year old daughter Hayley.   With good medical care, Hayley was born healthy and without HIV. However, Gemma found it very difficult to come to terms with her diagnosis. The medication made her feel very ill, and she found it difficult to see a future for herself:  She says: “I thought my life was over, that I’d never see my daughter grow up.”

Her partner began to be violent towards her, and some neighbours began to threaten and verbally abuse her, when they found out about her condition. She was in living in fear when her housing support worker put her in touch with Sarah, one of Hestia’s support workers.

Sarah supported Gemma in reporting her partner’s violence to the Police and found her safe accommodation in one of Hestia’s refuges. She also helped her get permanent housing near one of her close friends and helped her get a grant for furniture for her new flat.  

With Sarah’s help, Gemma also began to attend the HIV clinic regularly, and is now taking her medication regularly.  She says: “I still find the treatment tough, but I know now that HIV is not a death sentence. I can live a normal healthy life if I take care of myself.”