I have been living with HIV for ten years now.

December 9, 2025

I have been living with HIV for ten years now. During this time, my life has changed dramatically. At one point, it seemed to me that the diagnosis was destroying me, but that was exactly when I grabbed onto life and started over.

Several years ago, when I received a positive HIV test result, I was confused. Before that, I had been living a chaotic lifestyle. Questions kept running through my mind: where did the HIV infection come from, what is it, how do I get treated, and what should I do next? Today I know that people like me have time to find answers, and there are people who are ready to help. These are doctors, as well as others living with HIV who share their experiences.

After the diagnosis, my life split into “before” and “after.” I am a sociable and outwardly attractive man; I always found it easy to meet women. With those with whom a serious relationship was possible, I honestly told them about my status. Some left immediately—they said they couldn’t live next to someone who is HIV-positive. Others simply disappeared, stopped answering calls and messages.

There was one girl, a friend, who accepted me. We got married. But after the wedding, any conflict came with reproaches and reminders about my status. That marriage ended quickly. That was when I realized I wanted to meet someone who could be with me as an equal—one equal to another. Thanks to the specialists at the Almaty Region AIDS Center, I met a girl who also lives with HIV. We got married, have been together for more than three years now, and are raising a son. And fortunately, our child is healthy.

Yes, my life has changed. But life is change. HIV can adjust your plans, but it does not cancel dreams, love, a happy family, a career, children, or friendship. I do not hide my status. Those who accepted me have stayed by my side. And I believe in a dignified, fulfilling life.

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