The last time I tested for HIV was late 2013 and after that I was exposed to the virus. Although my then partner assured me that he had recently been tested, the thought of being infected scared me to death. I made efforts to visit the sexual health clinic but sadly I couldn’t get tested because I didn’t have any symptoms (I hope the clinic realizes the danger in turning people away).
I did not try the clinic again after the staff suggested I see my GP or book an appointment. I started looking into the possibility of getting a self test and was over the moon when I read an article about the BioSure HIV Self Test Kit going on sale in the UK. I ordered the kit and suddenly it dawned on me that this could be a life changing moment for me.
I became worried about someone finding out but true to the company’s words, the kit arrived in a clear packaging, my bank statement did not reveal the company name so I felt safe. I carefully read the instructions and proceeded with the test knowing that my life now depended on those 15 minutes. I spoke to my sister over the phone and she reassured me that I was going to be alright. After 15 minutes, my result returned negative and I knew I had been very lucky.
It takes a lot of courage to do the test and knowing your status is the first step to saving the world.