Over time, we’ve learned that life after an HIV diagnosis can be vibrant and varied. This comes through love found and lost, career highs, and personal triumphs. These photo narratives capture moments where people have transcended their diagnoses. They reveal inspiring journeys of growth, connection, and fulfillment. They show that with support and perseverance, a profound and meaningful life awaits.
Michael B. (He/Him) works at Maggie’s Toronto Sex Workers Action Project. He is Manager of their HIV & Harm Reduction Program. He has been working in the HIV sector for over a decade and has been living and thriving with HIV for over 21 years.
“In 2010, the US lifted a 22-year travel ban for visitors with HIV/AIDS. Current laws allow refusal of entry for those suspected of recent sex work. In 2023, I was able to legally enter the US, speaking on Canadian sex work at Cleaveland Leather Annual Weekend (CLAW) for Maggie’s Toronto. It was my first US visit in 23 years, and I smashed my presentation.”
Shaneequa Potts, a 2 Spirit trans woman from Treaty #6 Plains Cree, is a member of the Montana First Nation in Alberta, Canada.
“My happiest moment since becoming HIV-positive 20 years ago was my return to the drag performance stage as Shaneequa. Performing at a 2 Spirit event in Toronto in March 2024, I felt alive, free, healthy, and beautiful. I cherish role-modelling my HIV status on stage, having been undetectable the whole time. Now that I am 47, I have returned to the stage as an entertainer, national community health advocate, and helper to my family and community.”
Dr. Moussa Konaté, a 34-year old dedicated pharmacist specializing in HIV/AIDS care, is based in Mali.
“My moment of joy was when I started working as a pharmacist in the fight against HIV, tuberculosis, and viral hepatitis in Mali.”
Ashley is a mother of one and has been living with HIV for nine years.
Ashley, who has been HIV-positive for nine years, finds her most profound joy in her HIV-negative daughter, made possible by U=U. Her daughter is her world, embodying hope and love beyond measure.
Bradford McIntyre is a long-term HIV survivor living with HIV since 1984. He is an advocate, writer, speaker, volunteer and researcher. He is also founder of Bradford McIntyre Positively Positive Living with HIV/AIDS, which is designed to create awareness around many HIV and AIDS and promotes messages of positive living with HIV.
Deni Daviau (HIV-) and husband Bradford McIntyre (HIV+ since 1984) were married on June 2, 2001. Their wedding took place at St. John’s United Church in Vancouver, B.C., with family and friends.
Deveilyau Tymusko has lived with HIV for 21 years. She navigated her diagnosis through US immigration that sparked emotional distress, rejection, and stigma. Yet, HIV became a blessing. It brought her true love and joy when she met Garry Gordon, also living with HIV.
Deveilyau Tymusko's journey from fear and stigma to finding love with Garry Gordon in Victoria, BC, is a testament to resilience. Their bond was forged through shared experiences and U=U empowerment. It celebrates enduring love and happiness in the face of adversity.