I was born and raised in Holland, Europe.   After coming out as being gay to my family, I moved to Los Angeles in 1992 to commence my pursuit of happiness. Just when I thought my life was on track and things were good, I was handed a piece of paper that read “Test Results: Positive.” The date was July 5, 2001: my pursuit veered off track!       My career had included domestic television syndication for a children’s show, being a personal assistant for a few newsworthy celebrities and a venture in the corporate environment.   None of these experiences prepared me for the road ahead.   Coming to terms with HIV and battling a Crystal Meth addiction at the same time, I started to write to preserve my sanity and to escape the demons inside my head. It became the only way I knew how to process and manage the events that were happening in my life.     A decade has passed since I tested HIV+.  Since then, I have written over 300 pages and watched every aspect of my life change. Today, I am happy, healthy and stronger because of what happened. I share my experiences and work as a consultant in HIV and substance abuse prevention.  In 2005 the City of Los Angeles presented me with a Certificate of Commendation for all of my efforts.   That same year, I met my soul mate: a man who compliments me in all aspects and who grounds me. I never would have met George if I had not gone through my entire journey those previous years. He is my living proof that good things do happen. You just have to work for it.   All of this is because I tested positive, re-engaged in living, and allowed my life to become all of that: a complete Positive.   While my life has changed completely, the one thing that remains the same is my desire to make a difference and to be remembered for that effect.    For in the end, isn’t that really what we all want—just to be remembered?

2005 Certificate of Commendation from the City of Los Angeles