Things To Do While Waiting

So ok, you are screened and the doctor said that the result has been sent somewhere for confirmation. What is your next step?

You went to an HIV hub and they said that you need to undergo the required tests. While waiting for the result of these tests, what will you do?

You are still treating an existing OI and still not on ARV's because the doctor said you have to wait for your OI to be resolved. So What will you do?

These waiting periods are mind boggling..  they keep you mind from resting... it keeps your body from healing. So what do you need to do. What can you do to help yourself while waiting?

Here are some things that you can do while waiting:

1. Research on HIV/AIDS
2. Know the classifications of HIV/AIDS
3. Know and understand these terms: ELISA, Western Blot, PCR Viral load, CD4 test
4. Read on the opportunistic infections (OI)
5. Read on the prevention and treatment of OI's
6. Know the treatment HIV hubs in the country. Research then compare and contrast each one. Get directions on how to get there. Know the facilities and the competencies of doctors
7. Know and understand the antiretroviral therapy -- ARV's, ART's or HAART
8. Know the side effects of the ARV's and how to deal with them
9. Read on how to deal with the disease emotionally.
10. Read on the best way to tell your loved ones and friends about the disease
11. Read about the rights of a person with HIV/AIDS in the country
12. Learn about being positive. Read books and articles about it.
13. Know about PhilHealth and its benefits to people with HIV/AIDS. Apply if you don't have any or make sure to update all your payments.
14. Look for counsellors who are knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS.Talk to them if you want
15. Read about the experience of other people living with HIV/AIDS through blogs. Join clubs.
16. Join an anonymous tweeter or facebook group if you want. Learn from other people.
17. Know and study all the initial tests required by each hub. Know the fees for each test.
18. Read on how to strengthen your immune system. Know the proper diet, exercises both mentally and physically.

I can list down a lot more because there are a lot of things to do. Instead of fretting and blaming yourself and thinking of all the negative things that you can think of, why not start being productive. Being informed is the best way to brush away all fears. Start educating yourself. By being so, you help your mind rest and your body to heal fast.

FOR TOPIC SUGGESTIONS, please email me at pozziepinoy@yahoo.com

DONATE to The Love Fund : The Love Fund

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A New Journey!

I just found out that I am HIV positive  last March 10th, 2013 in a mass testing in Malate Manila. Me and my partner of one year thought it was the responsible thing to do.

We were both very confident that the results would be negative for both of us because we always practice safe sex. But when I found out that we were both positive... It felt like i just received my death sentence.

I cried like there was no tomorrow for a week, even people at my workplace were startled to see me that way (I would burst into tears all of a sudden) because I am always very lively.

The shock that I have felt at the time was incomparable. I would try to forget by watching a comedy films and laugh my heart out... But the moment I remember that I have this condition, my smile would fade away and then more tears would flow.

And then there was the panic. I suddenly became aware of ALL of the sensations that I felt in my body. Every small pain felt like a ticking time bomb.

XXX

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Email 19

“Hi Pozziepinoy,

First and foremost, I would like to thank you for your blogs.  All your words are so encouraging and all the information you share lift up my spirit.  I just have known that I have HIV last June 28 but yet to be confirmed by my Western Blot test (hopefully this Thursday).  HIV may not kill me at this time but depression does.  From the moment those 2 lines showed up in the rapid test, everything fell apart.  It was my darkest day.  I don't know what to do, who tell and what to tell.  I can't eat, I can't sleep and I want to stop time.  I'm so glad that I came across your blog because it's the only thing that I have for now and reading it makes me strong and gives me the understanding of what to face whatever lies ahead.

I'm still here working in XXXX.  I've been here for XXXX years.  I know and if I remembered it correctly, I got my infection last XXXX.  I pray that the XXX would not know my situation. Else, they would cancel my employment pass immediately and I have to leave the country ASAP.  If that happens it would be harder for me to explain to those who know me what is the reason and hopefully the XXX wouldn't disclose anything to my employer.  I don't know if I should expect that to happen but now I’m starting to pack my things (anyways, I still need to send some of my things back).  I couldn't decide at the moment until I have the WB result.  If I will be given the chance, I would like to stay here as long as I can to earn and save money for my lifelong medication but it also frightens because I know it would be hard when I start taking any medication.  I'm also thinking to just resign and go back to my family but I’m not sure either if I should or how can I tell them or how can I hide it from them.  I may have my savings but I’m not sure if it's enough for my treatment and I don't know if I can get a job when I go home.

Please advise me.  If ever I got that WB result, how long or should I wait for a certain period to do the entire test required?  Is 1 week enough to do the entire test? If I still be working here, I may be able to get a maximum of 2 weeks leave.  Can you also help me and refer me to your doctor?  RITM is the ideal hub for me because it's accessible to where I stay.  Please tell me what should I prepare - financially, emotionally, and physically.

Right now, I have so many questions in my mind.   There are so many information that I need to digest.   I have a big plan to make. It was just a week ago where everything is normal.  If only I could turn back the time, but I can't do that and what only I can do is move my life forward.  I have to stay strong. I have to live healthy. I want to be a fighter like you.

Hope to hear from you soon. 

Thanking you much!

XXX

P.S.

I hope that I would have the chance in meeting and talking to you in person.  I need your counselling.  You are the first person that I told about this.”

POZZIEPINOY’S REPLY

 Hi.

Thanks for your email. Thank you also for reading my blog. It is my diary of my second journey, well after I was diagnosed. 

I salute you for taking the HIV test. It is really hard for most of us to take it, to really admit that we have done something wrong in the past and acknowledge that HIV is real. You are one courageous person that other people should look up to. I am glad that you took it early, unlike me, who got tested when I was already sick with opportunistic infections, when I already have AIDS.

I know it is a serious matter to you since you are living and working abroad and having HIV would really compromise your job especially in the country you are in right now. I know it really is scary but more importnat now is your health. It is the greatest treasure that we all can only have so we really have to focus on it no matter what. You might be earning to live your dreams but what is important at present is for you to keep on living a healthy life. There are many decisions that we have to take but we have to choose what is best for our health. You really have to make a hard decision later on. I don't know how long you can keep it a secret in your company and from the country you are in but that feeling that anytime, someone will know your status is really scary. I know it is hard but let's face it, some countries really ban people with HIV. That's the reality, well, for now.

While waiting for your WB result, you should start reading about HIV. Most are in my blog already and the status of medical care in the country. 

Regarding your questions about the the length of time that you have to stay here for your tests, you have two options:

1. You can finish everything in one day in RITM and go back to work the following day (as simple as that) if:

    a. your CD4 is above 350. This means that you don't have to take your ARV's yet which are free in the Philippines.

    b. your CBC result is normal

    c. your other special tests are normal 

        i. Chest xray

        ii. AFB Smear

        iii. Toxoplasma IgG

        iv. HBsAg

        v. Herpes Simplex II (igG)

        vi. VDRL

        vii. anti HCV

     **** if there are abnormalities or there are signs of infections, better for you to have medical treatment first before going back.

2. When all the results are out (one day only in RITM) and if your CD4 is below 350:

    a. You have to take ARV's and monitoring is usually 2 weeks to one month, which means that you have to go back to the hub either after 2 weeks or after 1 month. This period is your monitoring period for any side effects of the ARV's.

Let's pray that you don't fall to option 2 yet because that will really have an impact in your decision of either staying here or working there still.

My advice to you is as soon as you get the result of your WB and in case it turns out to be positive, get a 2 week leave of absence fast, if possible, and get tested here in the Phils for all the tests that I mentioned above. Your priority is your health so this is important. The chances of getting better fast is at the highest is when the HIV is detected at an earlier stage and the immune system strength known (high CD4) so come home fast. Get all the tests done in RITM-ARG because I'm pretty sure that the results come out on the same day so no need to wait for a long time. I can also refer you to my doctor in case your CD4 is low, well in case you really want to. Else, if your CD4 is still high, you will just be asked to come back again after 6 months to be tested again.

For now, while waiting you just have to be strong. In my blog entries I wrote a lot of things that you can do while waiting. Check Things to do while waiting. Physically, you have to stay healthy. Don't get sick. Financially, the costs of all the tests won't go above P10,000. The ARV's are free, Your biggest baggage will be your travel expenses. Emotionally, just try to be strong and positive. There is life after HIV. Even though it is not the life we want for ourselves, at least we are still alive and living.

Thanks for making me the first person to confide your status in. I appreciate that. Talking is a good way of venting our fears and emotions. Later on, the challenge will be accepting what it is and by accepting it means telling our loved ones our health status.

I'll be here for you. You can email me anytime and we can communicate once you decide to come back to the country.

Stay healthy,

Pozziepinoy

FOR TOPIC SUGGESTIONS, please email me at pozziepinoy@yahoo.com

DONATE to The Love Fund : The Love Fund

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Email 32

Hello Pozziepinoy, 

First of all I would like to congratulate you on such a wonderful and informative blog. I am just so happy because I learned so much about HIV and AIDS all from your blog. My name is X and my boyfriend X of X years is probably HIV positive. I say probably because we do not yet have his official confirmatory tests from San Lazaro .....  X had Cryptoccocal Meningitis and he was confined for X weeks. As you know it is an opportunistic infection (OI) and he probably has AIDS already. He has been on Fluconazole for 5 weeks now (3 weeks IV in hospital and 2 weeks oral at home) and we just had his first check up today. We will be seeing Dr. Ditangco next week for the first time.

We are financially drained having spent almost all the savings we had treating his fungal infection (more than P800k) and knowing that we still have a long road ahead of us emotionally and physically drains me. However I'm just glad that he is alive and well, looks very healthy, eats well and has not lost weight at all. We spend almost P2,500/day on his meds for the fungus .... , it just scares me he might be on this for life. I do not know if we can sustain it considering there are other meds, tests and expenses to think about down the road.

We are still in the questioning/denial/thinking positive stage right now (we still do not have official results yet as it is with his attending physician whom we will see next week). Our dilemma is that I want him to start on HIV therapy ASAP but I know he needs his official HIV test results and CD4/Viral Load tests as well prior to starting it. ...it is very frustrating because I know every day we delay it, can cause his immune system to go lower and lower...it is driving me NUTS! He was off work for more than a month and his co-workers and managers have all been very supportive and understanding (he only told them he had XXX). He is back at work for a week now and aside from some slight headache, and feeling a bit feverish at times (he takes biogesic) he feels fine and well. Until his check up today we had actually completely denied his HIV status...but sadly his Infectious Disease MD jolted us back to reality.

I know it will entail a lot of adjustment on our lifestyle (like you, we loved to travel and shop) and sexlife as well as our eating habits (his MD has told him to avoid uncooked fruits and veggies). 

I suppose the main reason I am emailing you is to show support for your advocacy and let you know that your blog DOES HELP. I would also like to ask you a few questions which has been bugging me for a while now since this whole thing started. 

1. I am the BOTTOM and am HIV-, how is this possible? We have been together for over X years and have never used a condom except when we were new in the relationship (the first 6 months) wherein I wanted to get our HIV tests first and then remain monogamous. We were both negative as expected and even did repeat tests together every 4 years. All throughout having unprotected sex. Then now he is POSITIVE and I am NEGATIVE? 

2. We have talked and to this day he has denied having anything "extra-marital" .... he seems really sincere and I would like to think that this is a life or death situation and he would tell me if he did. Is it possible he had it all those years prior to us being together? It seems so absurd but is the only explanation I can think of. Please note we are a very conservative couple and hardly even go out (if he did have anything extra it would be very few and far between).

3. Can his CD4 count go up? How?

4. Do you have a doctor you can recommend as his MAIN DOCTOR? A doctor we can count on for emergencies, someone who is experienced with HIV and AIDS? Our infectious disease doctor from XX is a nice guy but not sure if he is the right one. He also has a very good neurologist who treated his meningitis but would like a "go to" type doctor who understands and can give us the right advice on treatment, lifestyle, what foods to eat and pretty much any thing HIV related.

I know I think I might be asking a lot but any help would be so appreciated. We live at the XXX by the way.

Thanks and Regards

X

POZZIEPINOY’S REPLY

Hi X,

Thanks for your email. I am so happy that my blog is reaching out and helping others. Initially it was only a diary of my experiences with HIV and ARV’s, however, lately it has been a notebook of my researches. It also has been a venue where I can ask for support for my advocacy which is the care of the my fellow poz living with HIV/AIDS who are seeking medical assistance for their medicines and hospitalization. I’ve been receiving a lot of emails not only from our country but all over the world and my blog it seems has also become a channel where others can ask questions about my disease.

I applaud you for really caring for your partner who, from your email, has gone through a lot. His experience was so much like mine when I was hospitalized with pneumonia, when my partner and I spent almost all our savings, when everyday during that time felt like a never ending journey of hardships and trials. But let me tell you, that like me and my partner, you guys can also soon overcome all the things that has been happening to both you.

I would like to address all the things that you mentioned in your email.

First, regarding your desire for him to start his ARV’s, well no matter what he won’t be able to be prescribed yet with the meds because the HIV confirmatory result is really required. I know that you are worried, but like what I wrote in my previous entries, there are other things that you can do while waiting for the result which will take 2-3 weeks to come out. You can try to do what I did why waiting for my confirmatory. 

   

1. Have all the blood work done. Total cost usually ranges from P4,000 to P7,000 depending on where you get them. This is still a win-win situation as you guys are just trying to find out his health status as well as if he has other infections. You can ask your ID doctor what tests to take but below is a list of what I got:

    

a. CBC 

b. Creatinine

c. SGPT (ALT) / SGOT (AST)

d. Special Tests:

• Chest XRay
• TB Test
• Toxoplasma IgG
• HBsAg
• Herpes Simplex II (IgG)
• VDRL
• Anti-HCV

Like what I said, this is just an option while waiting. However, in case the confirmatory turns out positive, these are all the tests that will be asked of your partner.

2. If you still have the financial capability, you can ask your ID doctor for a prescription of a CD4 test and VL test. See CD4 & Vl Price List for the price list and which hospital you can get them. Once again these are optional however, once again these will be asked during the screening. If you have both #1 and #2 ready in case the confirmatory turns out positive, then everything is all set for screening in the hub.

3. While waiting, read all the precautionary measures on how to avoid illnesses and viruses. Your ID doctor was right in telling your partner as to what kinds of food to avoid. The reason for this is that in case of HIV, the immune system is down so any simple illness can be blown up to a more serious illness. 

Read my previous blogs: Things To Do While Waiting , Health Tips , Stay Strong , Don't Get Sick!  

Second, I am so happy that your partner is still healthy looking, has a good appetite and has not lost weight at all. Those are good signs. However, even the pozzies with a very low CD4 can have the same health and physical status so make sure that your partner watches out for illnesses and tries to avoid communicable diseases.

Third,  regarding your question about your personal HIV status which is negative, despite your sexual role with respect to your partner, well it is possible that your immune system is stronger as compared with that of  your partner. However, we can’t assume that you are already safe from being infected because the course and progression of HIV varies from person to person. One person may turn out positive within 2 years post infection while another one may turn out positive 5-10 years post infection. From what I have read there are a small percentage of the population all over the world that the virus has not been transmitted and a very small percentage, immuned to it.

I encountered an email asking for direction when it comes to this matter. I remembered what my ID doctor told my partner, Tag. She said that the best way to calm down his nerves is to get tested again. If it turns out negative, get tested after 3 months. If once again the result turns out negative, then get tested again after 3 more months. He followed her advice and all his HIV tests turned out negative. He will have to get tested on a yearly basis.

You too can do this if you want, just to be sure of your status.

Fourth, I know it is still bugging you as to where and how he got the disease, but you should go beyond that now. You have to accept that there was a mistake that had been made (or done), and it really doesn’t matter now. I know it is easy to question everything, but for me, just love your partner. You’ve been through a lot and that is the ultimate test of a lasting relationship. Your love and partnership has been through a lot and yet, look  you guys are still together.

Fifth, the CD4 indeed goes up. The CD4 is the state of one’s immune system and through healthy living, it can really go up. In people with HIV, if the CD4 is way above the 350 mark, it usually is slow in going down. However if it falls below the mark, there is a possibility that it will go down rapidly. But there is good news. If the CD4 is below 350, the poz will be prescribed with ARV’s fast which will slow down the replication of  the virus. In return, the immune system will be able to bounce back, thus resulting to a higher CD4.

There are so many factors that can depress the CD4 so you can try to avoid  them while the CD4 is recovering from the insult of HIV.

Read my previous blog: Boost Your Immune System

Sixth, at the moment while waiting for the confirmatory, you guys can stick to your ID doctor. However, in case the confirmatory turns out positive, you can get Dr. Ditangco as your attending doctor. 

I have nothing against your current doctor, as you had mentioned that he is a good guy, however, I would still opt for an ID doctor who specializes in HIV and AIDS. Anyways, you told me that you will be seeing her soon so you can weigh your options as it is necessary for you guys to trust your chosen doctor.

Weighing everything you emailed me, it still boils down to his confirmatory test. I will pray that he be off the hook, that he turns out negative. 

I know you guys can overcome this trial.

Email me again if you have other questions.

Stay healthy,

Pozziepinoy

FOR TOPIC SUGGESTIONS, please email me at pozziepinoy@yahoo.com

DONATE to The Love Fund : The Love Fund

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How To Stay Positive!

Two days ago, Miguel (not his real name) who just found out that he is positive messaged me. He told me that he felt hopeless, that he wanted to end it all. He hasn't told anybody yet including his family. He was really down. I started communicating with him through text, giving him positive ideas, giving him hope. He was responsive. I answered all his questions about medicines, about the treatment, about the use of PhilHealth. I gave directions to the hubs. I answered all his queries. I listened to him. I told him that everything will be alright and he needs to focus on his health from now on. I told him that I already asked prayers from all the other pozzies that I know and he was grateful.


Our predicament is so great as soon as we find out that we are positive with the virus. Then what? Things flood our brains, mostly negative things. Will they do us good? Hell no. We first all all eradicate them and start to look ahead. Let's all be realistic. There is hope. There is treatment. Medicines are free. There are people who can help.


I found this article from WikiHow. Miguel, this is for you and for those people who are lost and down because of our disease:


1. Know Yourself. The most common reason why people think their lives suck is that they aren't living their own lives. Look deeply into whether you are acting to please others - to please family, friends and society. Realize that you need to get to know who you are and what your needs are, and make the choices to follow your own path. To know these things, a path of meditation and inner exploration is invaluable. This also comes to aid if you lose interest in things.


When you find out that you have HIV/AIDS, you have to accept it by accepting yourself first and fast. You need to get well and to do that you need to tell your loved ones for support and understanding.


2. Look Within. Ask yourself. What are the qualities you have that you like about yourself? Are you funny? Are you intelligent? Are you sincere? Are you generous? What do you have pride in? Try focusing on the positive things in your life. You maybe having a positive influence on others even when you think you're useless.


Most people living with our disease got depressed the first time they got their result. Some thought that it was the end of their lives, some even though of ending it. Always remember that you are important. All you have to do is to look inside and see your true value.


3. Prove those negative thoughts wrong. When you find yourself in a bad mood, you could think of the negative things such as, "I'm dumb and annoying", "I'm better off dead", "I'm stupid", etc. Even though it's not true. Change your mind. Look for your good features, think about the ones that you know love you, look on your greater side. Realize that nobody's life is easy and that there will always be ups and downs, and moments of low self esteem. Don't automatically assume that nobody cares. Every person matters to someone. You're alive for a reason.


It's easier to think of all the bad things that we have done when we are down. Control your thoughts. Instead of pulling yourself downwards , try to slowly spiral up and think of good things. Your mind can produce all bad things but it is also capable of greater and positive thoughts.


4. Appreciate What You See. Look in the mirror. Find some beautiful things about yourself. Do you have nice features that are adorable? Do you have nice skin? nice nails? beautiful eyes? full lips? Find stuff that appeals to you. When you can't change something, change your attitude towards it!


"You are beautiful, in every single way" as the song goes. You are perfect!


5. It's All How You Look At It. Are you jealous of the people with 'amazing" lives? They chose to be that way! Remember, there are people living in mansions who are miserable and people living on the street who are perfectly happy. It's all on how you look at it.


With our disease, we can still enjoy life. All we have to do is to understand and focus on our great abilities.


6. Determine How Your Life Could Be Better. What can you do to make your life better? What do you desire to do? How do you want to feel? Make a few reachable goals and your own strategies. The first step usually is the hardest - getting help or admitting that you need it.


7. Sometimes It's Just Luck. A lot of things in life are just luck. A lot of things in life are just luck. When you were born, whether you had a kind loving family or an abusive one where your mind or even your life is in danger, whether you belong in your community or were born into an out-group by religion, race, etc., whether your family was rich or poor are all random things. It's what you do with it that matters. Remember that there is something epic and heroic in rising from harsh circumstances to do something well. Just surviving a rough situation and coming out of it with a heart is a triumph, a story that could move people long after you lived. That matters.


8. Get Motivated. What motivates you? What gives you energy to go on everyday? Music? Love? family? a 1k run? God/Allah? Your attitude? Your pet? Friends? School? Give yourself a boost by focusing on what is important to you personally.


9. Remember that Some Things Pass With Time. There will be a tomorrow. There will be a next week. There will be a next month and perhaps by then, things will have changed for the better. If you are underage in a bad situation you have a definite release date after which your life is your own, all the things you could do to better it come into reach even if they're difficult.


10. Reminisce. Whenever you feel like you future is "hopeless", think about happy memories. It will help make you feel better and remind you that in the future, there will be good things too. Think about all the good things you've experienced, felt and achieved , and consider how many more good things could be waiting ahed. There will be many great moments in your life - don't let a few obstacles get in the way. If you don't have any happy memories, this is relative - don't judge them by things other people think as "happy memories". Think of the moments it wasn't as bad, even if those were only in solitude.


11. Don't Stop Yourself From Feeling the Joy. It's ok to step back once in a while and just enjoy the moment. Even in though situations - it's important to smile and laugh here and there. Don't restrict yourself
from doing things you love because they're "not important" or because you think you'll be criticized for doing them. Let yourself enjoy life even if you're not at the best place you could be. You only live once - make the best of it. 


12. Develop a Gratitude Journal. It's pretty simple. At the end of the day, write down five things that have made you happy or appreciate that day -- not necessarily big things, even small ones count. For instance: nice weather, being praised by your boss for getting an urgent errand done, your playful dog, kids and partner hugging you goodbye before they went to school or work, a hilarious joke a partner shared, etc.


13. If you feel persistently sad, unmotivated, anxious, hopeless or fearful, seek professional help. You may be suffering from a mood disorder or nutritional deficit which could be contributing to your situation. Chronic physical pain can cause these symptoms too, if an aspirin lifts your mood then go to a pain clinic. Remember there is always somebody there who wants to help you. You are Valuable!


TIPS:


1. To "go for it" simply get up and do it. There is a small voice inside saying "Get up!", and you need to do what it says; just dive it! Turn off the computer, turn off the TV and get going!


2. When you think positively, your whole views change about the world and you tend to look on the better, clearer side. It may sound stupid but being resentful is what really renders positive thinking useless. When you let down your walls (or hold out until they collapse.. ) really trying to "focus on the positives."


3. Thinking positively means hanging on to hope and looking for new possibilities at the time when life's gotten too hard. It means striving against its challenges, however extreme. It means hanging on to what is good in yourself if everything else gets swept away and valuing your compassion, your warmth, your capacity to find beauty. There is always the sky, there is always a dewdrop on a weed.


4. If the above fails for you, take the Buddhist view: Life is difficult. The fallacious thought is that we can change that. In accepting that life indeed is difficult, we begin to make it less painful .. not less difficult. Accept that life is full of difficulty and choose the religion, belief system, or substance to ingest to decrease the pain; that is after all what the rest of us do. Life CAN suck, deal with it!

FOR TOPIC SUGGESTIONS, please email me at pozziepinoy@yahoo.com

DONATE to The Love Fund : The Love Fund

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Email 592: New and Scared!

hi, good evening pozzie pinoy, got ur email at ur site, i'm kram not my real name 23 y.o and yesterday i was diagnosed hiv+ but my doctor schedule me for re-blood extraction for confirmatory at DOH, i dont know what to do at this point at san me mkkhingi ng tulong regarding my health status... nttkot me n baka d n ko magtgl :( hope mahelp nyo po ako... thank you

TRANSLATION

Hi.

Good evening Pozziepinoy. Got your email at your site. I'm Kram, not my real name, 23 yr old and yesterday, I was diagnosed as HIV positive. My doctor scheduled me for re-blood extraction for confirmatory at DOH. I don't know what to do at this point and where to seek help regarding my health status. I am scared that I won't last long. I hope that you can help me.

Thank you.

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Email 307: NEVER too late to Start!

Hi Pozzie,

call me JUAN, im a PLHIV since December 2010 ...

ngaun lang ako ngkakalakas ng loob n tanggapin ung sitwasyon ko... althought mag 3years na ako PLHIV inignore ko un... ksi akala ko nuon mdling tanggapin although alam ng ibang friends ko sitwasyon ko at ng family ko... may mga bagay p din na di nila maintindihan.. piniplit ko lng ipakita sa knila na OK ako, na kaya ko...deep inside ang tagal ko ntanggap s srili ko na di na mwawala na postive ako.... 3 taon, pinilit kong mbuhay ng normal, pinilit ko ausin sarili ko.. akala ko ok n ang lhat pero khit anong gawin kong takas ndi maalis na positive tlga ako... 

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Email 304: Waiting and Treatment Hubs

hi pozzie.... having a great day.....?

anyway can I ask you something.... I was diagnosed hiv+ wt is the 1st step that I need to do..? (my blood extraction done on one of the private diagnostics center in mnla, and they just forward it to san lazaro SACCL for confirmatory) after having the confirmatory results, the doctor from the diagnostic center is advising me to coordinate to the San Lazaro SACCL. but im thinking that there might be better place to go like what i have read on ur blogs, like ritm-arg and ritm sat clinic.... or should I find a private doctor 1st?

thanks for ur time...

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Email 520: Supportive Friend Who Wants to Help

I have been reading your blog two months ago, and been using it to get info regarding HIV.  I am a Psychology Student and interested in helping HIV positive Filipino. BTW, my friend has symptoms of HIV lately and recently took a test in a certain clinic in Quezon City his results was transferred to San Lazaro for further testing.

They have not confirmed yet and we need to wait for fifteen days for the results. If in case the result is Positive I would like to ask for the necessary steps towards his healing. We are also planning to join certain support group to help improve his mood, as his mood is very low right now and maybe a fellow possies can help him and uplift his spirit.

I would also like to join and be a volunteer in reaching out to HIV Positive People. How can i be able to help?

Thank you for your blog!

Thanks.

Regards,

XXX

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Email 312: Anxious About the HIV Test Result

Hi! 

I stumbled upon your blog while i was searching for HIV in the Philippines. Thank you for putting up such blog. It is inspiring for those who are stricken by virus. It gives them hope and positive outlook in life.

Anyways, I was searching for HIV symptoms because my friend who had a medical examination as a requirement for his working abroad got the saddest news of his life just this morning. He was told that his blood is infected and so had another blood test and be brought to the DOH. He was told to wait for a week or two for the result. The period of waiting makes him more anxious.

Can you please advise...

XXX

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Email 416: What Should I Do?

Hi Pozziepinoy,

My name is Yumi and I need your help and your advise, I went to the clinic last December 12 to have my HIV testing and I went back yesterday (December 18) to get the result, they told me that they need to re confirm the result so they need to get another blood from me. I know in my heart that I am infected, because a few years back, I got herpes and the doctor told me that it will remain in my system, I got tested that time and the result is negative. I had a boyfriend that time and just this year we broke up, we lasted for 3 years and for 3 years I have been loyal with him, after my relationship, I was engaged with different sexual activities with other men, I would go on 3sum and have other partner every other day. there are times that I am not protected. I receive a message from a sexual partner asking me if I am sick and he told me that I should get tested and so I did last December 12. I am still optimistic that the result will be negative but yesterday is a different story, when they told me that they need blood again to re confirm I knew that I am screwed.

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PLHIV Story: Next Steps?

hi sir pozzie. i hope you're doing good and fine. God bless you always.

sorry if my letter would be too long and i hope you could forgive my drama-- i just can't let it go that easily. i had unprotected sex last August 2013. a month after, i got sick (fever,  
mild tonsil with rashes). my boss (which happens to be a GP since i work in a hospital) decided me to get admitted. i was confined for 3 days and the final diagnosis was systemic viral infection.

i did not waste any moment.

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What To Do When You Find Out That You're a Pozzie

Your initial steps to take once your HIV test result becomes positive:

If you're ASYMPTOMATIC (no signs of illnesses) and you just took the test out of curiosity and found out you're positive:

1. Talk to your doctor and ask what is the next step is for you. Usually the first result will tell you that you are HIV positive but it will still be sent to San Lazaro Hospital or RITM for confirmation. Sometimes there are results that are only false positives, so they just want to be sure of the diagnosis. Usually this takes from 2-3 weeks.

 Two options that you can do next, of course with your doctor's approval:
     a. Wait for the confirmatory result
     b. Have a CD4 count done early. Ask your doctor about this if he is ok for you to get your CD4 while waiting for the confirmatory result. The normal CD4 count is 500 up. There's nothing to lose anyway, except the cost of the test. If your CD4 count is below 500 ask your doctor about the items in #4 (See below).

2. When you leave the hospital, talk to someone. May it be your partner, friend, parents, siblings or anybody close to you. It's best to clear up your mind from the news that you just received.

3. Don't waste time. Do your research. Know about the things pertinent to the disease:
     a. Surf the net about HIV, AIDS, ARV Treatment, CD4 cells, Viral Load.
     b. Research about the HIV/AIDS treatment hubs near your place.
     c. Be a member of PhilHealth fast. If you are already a member, make sure that you have your MDR ready. Research about the benefits of PhilHealth when it comes to HIV/AIDS. Trust me, they have a package that will cover the cost of treatment.

4. Once you're confirmed to be HIV positive, ask the doctor for the next step:
    a. Get consultation from your chosen hub
    b. Ask if laboratory tests  and blood work are needed
    c. Ask for your CD4 test schedule.

5. If you took all lab tests and blood work and the CD4 test, you will have to wait for awhile.
    a. The lab tests will tell you if you have untreated illnesses. If you have untreated illnesses, your doctor will tell you what you should do next.
    b. The CD4 will reveal status of your immune system. It will also tell you when you need to start with the treatment or not.  If your CD4 count is below 350, you will be needing treatment already.

If you're SYMPTOMATIC:

1. Your attending physician will:
     a. get all lab tests and blood work done
     b. Request you to have an HIV test especially if they diagnosed you with one or two opportunistic infections.

2. If the result becomes positive, still it will be sent to SLH or RITm for confirmation. This will take 2-3 weeks. While waiting:
    a.  Talk to someone. May it be your partner, friend, parents, siblings or anybody close to you. It's best to clear up your mind from the news that you just received. It's better to relieve the burden off your shoulders so you can get better with your existing condition.
    b. Seek consult from an Infectious Disease on the next steps to take
    c. Ask the ID doctor if you can get your CD4 done to know the status of your immune system. This is what happened to me. My doctor instead of waiting for 2-3 weeks requested for me to get a CD4 count fast. In RITM you'll get the result in only 4 hours. Would cost you P3,000 but at least you don't have to wait. In SLH it's only P2,500.

3. The doctors will first treat your infections until you become stable.

4. Once you have a confirmation that you are HIV positive and your CD4 result is out, your ID doctor will take charge and will tell you if you need treatment or not.

Your doctor still knows best. Of course, it is better that you have knowledge on what to do too. Evaluation and treatment involve a partnership between you and your doctors. Question everything. Do your research. It is after all your health.. and your life.

FOR TOPIC SUGGESTIONS, please email me at pozziepinoy@yahoo.com

DONATE to The Love Fund : The Love Fund

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Please Help Me!

Hi

I just turned out positive last week during my first visit on a hygiene clinic. I really don't know how to handle this. I did not expect this as I was not really that sexually active. I haven't told anyone yet which makes this even more difficult. It's been a week and I'm still suffering from depression, sleeplessness, headaches and hopelessness. It consumes me  
everyday. I'm only 23 and I feel like my life is shattered already. 

Your blog somehow gave me hope but still I am not you or at least financially not like you. I feel like yours is a very lucky case. I have a lot of questions that keeps on bothering me. I hope you could help me find answers and help me accept my status and just move on. As of now, it's really hard. :-(

biboy

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Email 329: What Should I Do?

Hello!

I was diagnosed na reactive ako sa HIV-1 and 2 sa RITM MALATE. They said under confirmatory test pa ako is it possible na maging non-reactive ang confirmatory test ko? BTW  I think ako ang pinaka batang may HIV I'm just 18years old (you can show my age) nag start lang ang sexual encounters ko nung 17 lang ako and ngayon eto nag reactive ako sa HIV hindi ko alam ang gagawin ko saan ako mag uumpisa. Sana makahanap ako ng mga taong may ganto din at makakasuporta sa akin. Sana hindi pa huli ang lahat para sa aking buhay madami pa akong plano sa pamilya ko at sa sarili ko. In other side thankful ako dahil maaga pa lang na diagnosed na agad ako at may time pa ako for treating it and changing my lifestyle. Ano po pwede kong gawin? Marami pong salamat. God bless. 

XXX,18, Cavite. 

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Email 53: Scared About HIV

Hi Pozziepinoy, 

Ako yung sa blog mo who is seekng help, diagnosed just yesterday. gulong gulo ako. d ko alam gagawin sobra. im paranoid that ths s d end for me. I have friend in whch i saw how aids progrsd until he died. hndi xa nagpatest until grabe na xa. ako for cnfrmatory pa sabi ng clinic. im shockd kasi kailangan lng magpamedcl for my work and then ito ung result. i nid ur help, how would i manage ths. im just 26 and i dnt want to die by next year or sooner 

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Email 364: Steps I Need to Take?

Good day!

I badly need your help. Im sorry to bother you.

I am a newly diagnosed HIV + patient. I was screened last May 2 in The Medical City. I was advised the next day that the result is positive. I was even confined on the same hospital for pneumonia. I was asked to visit their I-React clinic, however, I am worrying about the expenses of the treatment and medication.

I was advised by a friend that there are organizations/institutions that provide free testing, counselling and treatment for people with HIV. One of which is RITM in Alabang. I would like to know if the testing would be for free to someone like me who is a new patient.

As we all know, financial hardship is one of the struggles for HIV. And hope and pray that I will be able to have the testing done and start with the medication as soon as possible.

What are the steps that I need to do?

Sorry to bother you, it's just that I am so new to this, and I still don't know what to do. Any assistance will be highly appreciated. I tried to reach you on your mobile number but was unable to get an answer. 

Hope I would hear from you soon. I am planning to go to RITM in Alabang this coming Saturday.

Thank you very much!

Kind regards,

XXX


POZZIEPINOY'S RESPONSE

Hi XXX.

Thank you for your email. I am sorry that my response came in a little late as I have been quite busy with my work as I will be traveling out of the country in a few weeks.

Let me address your concerns in the order that you asked them.

First, I understand what your feeling about going to a private HIV/AIDS Treatment hub. Of course the ARV's are still free in all the hubs, however, in the private hubs, a PLHIV will shoulder the consultation fees and all the laboratory fees. A private hub will of course will charge more that the government owned treatment hubs. The advantage though is the less crowding in the private hubs unlike in the government hubs where there are about 50 or more patients a day that they entertain.

Second, you mentioned RITM-ARG in Alabang and yes, all the lab tests including the CD4 and VL and consultation fees are free there as long as you are enrolled in the hub. Of course, Alabang is far from Manila area so you really have to plan your check ups there. For instance, CD4 testing is only from 7-8am every weekdays except on Wednesday.

Third, you were asking about the next steps that you need to take. You can read about them by clicking these links:

NEXT STEPS:

1. Where To Start?

2. New Pozzie Needs Direction

3. What to do Once You Are A Pozzie

4. Next Steps?

5. Taking the Next Steps

6. Waiting for the Confirmatory Result

7. Our Next Steps

8. Where Do I start?

9. Answers to Questions

10. Things To Do While Waiting

11. Choosing the Best Hub

12. Choosing a Private HIV Doctor

13. Choosing Hub

HOPE and POSITIVISM

1. Don't Be Scared

2. Stand Up and Live!

3. Positivism

4. Focus on What You Can Control

5. How To Have Peace of Mind

6. I am Like You

7. There are Reasons to Smile

8. Everything Will Be Alright

9. Fight With All Your Might

10. We Are All in This Together 

Once again, I apologize for not replying on my phone. I was really tied up with work lately but I am really trying hard to find time to answer all emails and to answer my phone again.

I hope I was able to answer your concerns. Please email me again if you have other questions.

Stay healthy,
Pozziepinoy

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