Edition 45 - 5th Aug 2008
Attitude Matters
How we think affects what we say and do - so standing up for better attitudes towards people living with HIV is at the heart of George House Trust’s message for Manchester Pride
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Volunteers’ Big Impact
Volunteers led the first response to the HIV epidemic. Laura Hamilton, Volunteer and Development Manager, looks at how volunteers’ support is still changing living with HIV
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George House Trust is currently expanding its Positive Speakers
Programme as part of our wider campaign to challenge HIV related stigma and prejudice.
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GHT Homepage  Insight In my own words .... FactFile
19th May 2008
Name: “Carol” (early 40s, British woman, diagnosed 2007)
How did you find out about George House Trust?
When I went to the hospital, when I was diagnosed.
How did you feel when you were diagnosed?
I was shocked, but when I went to be tested the day before, the conversation with the health worker had prepared me for the possibility of a positive diagnosis. So when I received my test result it wasn't as unexpected as it might have been. I had also been ill, so it made sense of some of the symptoms that I had experienced.
I felt completely detached when I left the hospital and walked back to the car. My first thoughts were how was I going to be able to tell my family. The most helpful advice I was given very early on was that I didn't need to tell anyone. I had one very supportive friend that I spoke to straight away.
What George House Trust services have you used?
I have used one to one support to talk about how I am coming to terms with my status. I have also been to the women's group that meets in the evening, as I work, and also the Saturday Space.
How do you rate George House Trust for HIV support?
It has been an invaluable source of support, particularly as I have felt unable to tell many people close to me. One to one sessions at George House Trust have enabled me to talk about how I feel and to know that I am not alone. It is good to know that I can always pick up the phone and hear a supportive voice at the other end.
All the services I have used, the NHS and the voluntary sector have been really supportive. I have never felt so well looked after. I realise I do not have a death sentence.
What message would you like to give to other people?
The message is to be aware, to take responsibility for your own health and not to assume that it can't happen to you. If you have had unprotected sex, it is much better to be tested, so that you know for certain what your health status is. If you are negative, think about how you are going to stay that way!
Hopes for the future
I hope that in the future I feel able to tell more of my close friends, family and colleagues that I am HIV positive.
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