There are a lot of factors as to why I’m able to live the life I am today. Part of being a longterm survivor, for me, is gratitude and understanding of the safety nets I had (supportive family, safe roof over my head, etc) growing up. I was fortunate that, by the time I’d gotten very, I had access to effective treatments. It’s also important for me to stay on top of my health realities today, many of which are simply the effects of aging with multiple medical conditions.
That said, I’m actually doing pretty good!
Of course, where all of our personal health situations are concerned, there’s always room for improvement. And with my 50s just a couple of years away, the healthy things that I can make routine now will make my life in ten years much enjoyable.
Of course, none of us are promised tomorrow.
Anyhoo, if you’re interested in reading more about my hot takes on being a longterm survivor, here’s my most recent article for H-I-V.net:
https://h-i-v.net/living/life-essentials
Wishing you all the best on your own health journey!
Positively Yours,
Shawn