Co Down Man Shares HIV Journey, Urges Testing on World AIDS Day

A 61-year-old man from Co Down has openly discussed his experience with HIV for the first time, highlighting the importance of awareness and testing on World AIDS Day. Eddie, who prefers to keep his full identity confidential due to concerns about his family’s reaction, was diagnosed with HIV 11 years ago after his ex-wife and children were unaware of his status.

Eddie’s journey began after a new relationship developed following the breakdown of his marriage. He discovered that his partner had concealed their HIV status from him. “My world fell apart. I was in what I felt to be a trusted relationship,” he stated. This revelation led him to reflect on signs he had overlooked, including medication that his partner had kept hidden.

In 2012, Eddie’s health took a turn for the worse, prompting his doctor to recommend an HIV test. Upon receiving the diagnosis, he felt an overwhelming sense of confusion and fear. “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.

Eddie described the stigma surrounding HIV in Northern Ireland as “the last taboo.” He shared that he confided in very few people about his diagnosis—only three close friends—while avoiding healthcare services altogether. “HIV can happen to anyone. Most people think it just affects gay men,” he added. “I was married with children. We need to get the message out that anyone of any age or gender who is sexually active can get HIV.”

He emphasized the importance of getting tested and seeking treatment. “The most important message right now is to get tested, to get treatment, and to access the non-judgemental support I’ve had from Positive Life as soon as possible. Then you can get on with living your life and protect others from getting HIV,” Eddie urged.

This year, Eddie reached out to Positive Life, Northern Ireland’s only dedicated HIV charity. He credits the organization with helping him come to terms with his diagnosis through support and therapeutic counselling. “Had it not been for Positive Life, I wouldn’t be here to tell my story,” he said. He pointed out that while HIV treatment has advanced significantly since the 1980s, societal attitudes in Northern Ireland still lag behind.

Statistics from the Department of Health reveal that there were 101 new diagnoses of HIV in Northern Ireland last year, with a total of 1,439 individuals currently living with the virus. Alarmingly, a recent health survey indicated that nearly one in five people aged 16 to 34 had not heard of HIV. Furthermore, fewer than one in three were aware that individuals on effective medication cannot transmit the virus.

Jacquie Richardson, Chief Executive of Positive Life, reinforced the charity’s mission: “Our message is get tested, know your status, and end HIV.” She echoed Eddie’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and education regarding HIV.

As Eddie reflects on his journey, he hopes that by sharing his story, he can inspire others to seek the help and support they need. His experience serves as a powerful reminder that HIV does not discriminate, and that awareness and testing are crucial steps in combating the stigma surrounding the virus.