Paul

`November 5th 2001 is a date seared on my memory. As I was being told I was HIV+ it felt like I was in the middle of an EastEnders episode, dramarama was something that happened to other people not me.'

`My boss was amazing and very supportive. Although I was under no legal obligation to disclose to my employers (and neither are you) I personally found it helped and prevented me feeling guilty.'

`Disclosing reminds me of buying a one way ticket, there’s no going back once you climb aboard.'

`Coincidentally the next day I had an appointment to have my bloods done. In the past, I used to dread this however these days I strangely look forward to my checkups as I know I will be treated with warmth, respect and friendliness for which I count my blessings.'

`Speaking of which, there have been a handful of dates with some great guys over the last month none of whom were concerned in the slightest with my status.'

`If you’re like me, on the rare occasion I do get ill I do wonder how being HIV+ affects the recovery process.'

`As you know I’m running for the 2011 CHIVA (Children with HIV Association) summer camp.'

'OK, so I’m grumpy this week and that’s putting it mildly as I doubt whether I’m allowed to vent how I feel using my chosen vocabulary on my diary.'

`It’s absolutely chucking it down with rain, Wimbledon is on the TV and Glastonbury is on the radio. Must be June again...'