Asbury Park, New Jersey
Positive since 1999

Quite honestly, my status drastically changed the way I was living. I was a product of the ’70s and ’80s, when the sexual revolution was in full swing. I thought I was free to do whatever with no consequences. Now I have to have the discretion I should have had all along. Choosing a partner is now a longer and more involved process, which is a plus with me. I like getting to know my partner more than the old one-night-stand thing.

What adjectives best describe you?
Fun, honest, caring, sincere, easygoing, compassionate

What is your greatest achievement?
Coming to terms with myself and learning tolerance

What is your greatest regret?
Letting love go

What keeps you up at night?
Right now? James Cagney.

If you could change one thing about living with HIV, what would it be?
Having a companion

What is the best advice you ever received?
Not to judge

What person in the HIV/AIDS community do you most admire?
I admire anyone who has acceptance and strength.

What drives you to do what you do?
Knowing that I am the same person I have always been

What is your motto?
Breathe.

If you had to evacuate your house immediately, what is the one thing you would grab on the way out?
My kids and guinea pig

If you could be any animal, what would you be? And why?
A turtle. They just chill.