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Beyond the Diagnosis: My 27-Year Journey of Choosing Life, Peace, and Community

  • Writer: Ty Andrews
    Ty Andrews
  • Dec 1, 2025
  • 2 min read

by Ty Andrews


Ty Andrews headshot sitting with mood lighting and black background wearing black tuxedo jacket and black v neck T-shirt. Photo by Marty Morris with MPM Photography.
Photo: Marty Morris/MPM Photography

At 23, I thought I was cute because I was skinny... I was diagnosed with HIV in 1998. I weighed 128 lbs, had fallen to a single-digit T-cell count and was told I’d never be able to work again.


Today, on #WorldAIDSDay, at 50, I am still here and thriving.


Here’s the deal: The diagnosis is no longer a death sentence. However, I learned that well-being means we all have a responsibility—to be well in self-care, and to be someone who cares for the community.


I never forget the family and friends who supported me while I was figuring it all out. Organizations like Big Bend Cares helped me get back on my feet when I needed it most. And groups like Human Rights Campaign fight daily to end stigma and champion the right for the LGBTQ+ community to exist.


The federal government still chooses silence about HIV, but I choose life. They say there is no cure for HIV, but I know that my inner healing is my peace. 


I hope the world catches up.


HIV/AIDS Resources for Support and Action

My journey was only possible thanks to the family, friends, and organizations who showed up for me. If you or someone you know needs support, please know you are not alone. Here are resources focused on health, self-care, and fighting stigma:


General Treatment and Empowerment

  • Treatment and Care (Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program): This federal program provides essential medical care and support services to people living with HIV who are low-income, uninsured, or underinsured. To find a provider in your area, visit the HIV.gov Ryan White Clinic Locator: https://locator.hiv.gov/

  • The U=U Message (Prevention Access Campaign): Learn about the scientifically proven fact that Undetectable = Untransmittable. This is crucial for fighting stigma and promoting hope and safety. https://preventionaccess.org/

  • National Advocacy & Information (HIV.gov): A reliable resource for information on prevention, testing, and treatment in the U.S. https://www.hiv.gov/

  • LGBTQ+ Support (The Trevor Project): If you are an LGBTQ+ young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or needing a safe place to talk, The Trevor Project provides free, confidential counseling 24/7. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/


Resources for Black and People of Color Communities


  • The Black AIDS Institute (BAI): The only national HIV/AIDS think tank focused exclusively on Black people. They lead with self-advocacy, education, and holistic wellness. https://www.blackaids.org/

  • NMAC (Formerly National Minority AIDS Council): Dedicated to the development of leaders from communities of color to eradicate the HIV epidemic. They focus on advocacy and leadership development. https://www.nmac.org/

  • The Center for Black Health & Equity: Supports anti-stigma campaigns and programs that educate African Americans about HIV testing, treatment, and living well with HIV. https://centerforblackhealth.org/

  • The Melanated Movement (AIDS United): Advances the health, knowledge, and narrative power of Black women of cisgender, transgender, and gender-expansive experience impacted by HIV. https://aidsunited.org/action/melanated-movement/

Thank you for reading my story. Let's keep choosing life.

 
 
 
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