MY TURN

A Survivor's Tale

Since being diagnosed as HIV-positive in 1990, I've managed to reinvent myself at least three times.

Newsweek Web Exclusive
Aug 25, 2008 | Updated: 11:16  a.m. ET Aug 25, 2008

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  • Posted By: romel @ 09/29/2008 1:26:46 PM

    FatJoey, I understand you. I understand how much you hated immorality. The desire of our flesh is wearing us down but I learn a lot from the testimony of this man. Sometimes it is willed that one must pass through the ugliest, darkest corner of his life in order for him to be able to appreciate the boundless beauty of light. One thing I appreciate with this man is that he never even talk about religion yet his struggle inspires my spirit. It's diffecult for one to pick up the pieces and put them back togethere, but this man discovers even more facinating things in life and portrayed a much vibrant picture out of the shattered image he once had when he lost his balance. Fatjoey I take this opportunity to thank you for paying your taxes honestly. Without such honesty there would have been no medical care to help those who are truly in need. FatJoey, like you I hate sin. But the determination of one person to correct the wrong he has done inspires me to love sinners. Thank you.

  • Posted By: romel @ 09/29/2008 1:21:28 PM

    FatJoey, I understand you. I understand how much you hated immorality. The desire of our flesh is wearing us down but I learn a lot from the testimony of this man. Sometimes it is willed that one must past through the ugliest, darkest corner of his life in order for him to be able to appreciate the boundless beauty of light. One thing I appreciate with this man is that he never even talk about religion yet his struggle inspires my spirit. It's diffecult for one to pick up the pieces and put them back togethere, but this man discovers even more facinating things in life and portrayed a much vibrant picture out of the shattered image he once had when he lost his balance. Fatjoey I take this opportunity to thank you for paying your taxes honestly. Without such honesty there would have been no medical care to help those who are truly in need. FatJoey, like you I hate sin. But the determination of one person to correct the wrong he has done inspires me to love sinners. Thank you.

  • Posted By: romel @ 09/29/2008 1:20:40 PM

    FatJoey, I understand you. I understand how much you hated immorality. The desire of our flesh is wearing us down but I learn a lot from the testimony of this man. Sometimes it is willed that one must past through the ugliest, darkest corner of his life in order for him to be able to appreciate the boundless beauty of light. One thing I apprecite with this man is that he never even talk about religion yet his struggle inspires my spirit. It's diffecult for one to pick up the pieces and put them back togethere, but this man discovers even more facinating things in life and portrayed a much vibrant picture out of the shattered image he once had when he lost his balance. Fatjoey I take this opportunity to thank you for paying your taxes honestly. Without such honesty there would have been no medical care to help those who are truly in need. FatJoey, like you I hate sin. But the determination of one person to correct the wrong he has done inspires me to love sinners. Thank you.

  • Posted By: FATJOEY @ 08/26/2008 6:35:20 AM

    i have no sympathy for buttdarters,it was preventable!wonder how much of my tax money goes towards his drugs?

    • Posted By: romel @ 09/29/2008 1:20:19 PM

      FatJoey, I understand you. I understand how much you hated immorality. The desire of our flesh is wearing us down but I learn a lot from the testimony of this man. Sometimes it is willed that one must past through the ugliest, darkest corner of his life in order for him to be able to appreciate the boundless beauty of light. One thing I appreciate with this man is that he never even talk about religion yet his struggle inspires my spirit. It's diffecult for one to pick up the pieces and put them back togethere, but this man discovers even more facinating things in life and portrayed a much vibrant picture out of the shattered image he once had when he lost his balance. Fatjoey I take this opportunity to thank you for paying your taxes honestly. Without such honesty there would have been no medical care to help those who are truly in need. FatJoey, like you I hate sin. But the determination of one person to correct the wrong he has done inspires me to love sinners. Thank you.

    • Posted By: Denver711 @ 08/29/2008 9:55:01 AM

      What an extremely offensive and judgmental comment, 'Fat Joey'. And as your screen name implies, would it be a fair question to ask how much of our tax dollars will go to pay for your unhealthy lifestyle one day? After all, being obese puts you at risk for numerous health issues, many of which the public must pay if you lack good insurance. And considering your inherent lack of education, class or social skills, I would say you do not have a job that will cover your medical expenses for the rest of your lifespan. Congrats Buzz for a very poignant essay! I received my B.S. in May 2005 and decided this year to go back to shcool for occupational therapy. I am working full time right now, taking pre-requisuite classes and entering graduate school next fall. I applaud anyone filling thier precious free time with schooling. It's a difficult task but the satisfaction of fufilling your dreams far outweighs the struggle in the grand scheme of things. And to do it while battling constant health issues...you are an insipiration to us all!

    • Posted By: summer4077 @ 08/26/2008 1:50:37 PM

      Once again, you prove yourself to be highly uneducated.

      For non-knuckledragging neanderthals, this is a well-written, insightful piece from a courageous man.

  • Posted By: seckermann @ 08/26/2008 12:09:37 PM

    Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful words with us. For those of us who don't know what it's like to live with HIV, this gives us a glimps at what you have to go through. I've enjoyed knowing you Buzz and you have certainly inspired me with your passion....

  • Posted By: seckermann @ 08/26/2008 12:05:46 PM

    Thank you for sharing this beautiful article, Buzz and for giving those of us who do not know what it's like to live with HIV a glimpse at what you have to deal with. I'm honored to know you Buzz and you have certainly inspired my life with your passion....

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