November 2010

My CD4 has been over 1000 for four years now and this visit has showed an increase to 1300 with great percentage and undetectable viral load.

My liver functions are the only area that has not improved but having been tested for hep C and Hep B immune, it’s not anything other than overloading the liver with meds.

At the Chelsea and Westminster the clinical team have been doing fibre scans for a couple of years to monitor liver abnormalities. So I do consider myself well cared for by the NHS.

Infact as an HIV positive man through having regular check ups, my health care is without doubt more diagnostically advanced than the average man on the street. I get advance warning of any potential problems down the line.

Given my CD4 was below 50 when I was unwell 18 years ago, I feel pretty good upon reflection.

My general lifestyle is important to me and I always make sure I get exercise, that my diet is good and that I get adequate rest.

For many years I have taken a holistic approach to pretty much everything I do in terms of well being.

Meditation was something I learnt many years prior to being diagnosed with HIV and has remained a big part of my relaxation and mindfulness way of life. Together they both help me to as by be mindful helps me to be aware of my thoughts, feelings and actions and to keep them positive.

I set aside time every day for meditation for half an hour. I now find it’s easy to be mindful, even on the bus or train going to work. By placing my feet on the ground, being mindful of how I am breathing help’s to slow me down and focus my mind more positively.

Try it by noticing something on the journey that you haven’t noticed before. Or by being aware of what and how you eat breakfast, lunch or any snack.

Incidentally my consultant who has cared for me since 1996 seems to feel it is in my case an age thing!

What a liberty!! Only jesting, he is the best and my confidence in him is absolute.

Keep well.

Richard

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