Loss. It’s something every person living with HIV endures. From the moment of diagnosis onward, it’s something that shadows the soul.

Some losses are static; loved ones who will never again say I love you. Some are dynamic; sickness becomes health becomes sickness again.

Some losses are sudden, others can be seen coming. One is like falling off a cliff, the other, like watching a slow-motion train-wreck.

Loss is a gut-wrenching business.

Loss eviscerates.

Loss is emptiness.

Cast adrift.

Numb.

And chilled to the bone.