Dear Taurai

I can’t give you an answer about who to tell when you have HIV or AIDS; it is a big and difficult decision. Everyone must make their own choice. Some people tell nobody, others tell a close relative or friend, others tell many – and they do this at different stages. Whatever people choose is fine.

Many people feel happier when they share their feelings and some people, like your mother, are brave enough to speak out publicly.  And for everybody with HIV or AIDS, having a counsellor or support group to talk to is really important.

However, until society becomes more open about HIV, telling people can have serious results, like losing your job, your friends or partner or even the place you stay. People need to balance the benefits against the possible losses for themselves personally, before they tell anyone they are HIV positive. If you have a job, you also need to learn your legal rights as an HIV positive worker.

Certainly I agree that children are usually happier when they know the truth, even if it’s sad.

So, thank you for helping many young people by being so brave and open. Your and your mother’s story will give hope to many people.

Auntie Stella