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Personal story: Lucas

If you’re worried, get tested

Young man wearing glasses and a hat smiling at the camera
Photo credit: ©iStock/ajr_images. Photos are used for illustrative purposes. They do not imply health status or behaviour.

"I met a stranger one night while drinking and that same night, we had unprotected sex. Afterwards, she freaked out and said that she forgot to tell me to use a condom. I thought nothing of it until a week later when I began to feel fatigued and had a mild fever.

I went digging for answers through the internet which was the worst thing I could possibly do because sure enough, I convinced myself I had HIV. I was freaking out, thinking how could this happen to me?

I put myself through months of hell and anxiety because I was scared to get tested. That was the lowest point of my life. When I started to notice I had a swollen lymph node, I knew I couldn’t run anymore, and I would never be at peace until I knew for sure. I worked up the courage and I went. Shaking nervously, I got my blood work done.

About a week later I got the call. I was negative! To anyone reading this, please don’t make the mistake I did by worrying and looking things up online. You’re going to be okay. You’re putting yourself through needless anxiety. The test is free, friendly, and confidential. Please if you’re worried, get tested."

What we say

Like Lucas, people often don’t test for HIV or put off testing because they’re worried about the result, or what other people will think. Testing is the only way to know for sure if you have HIV and can help you take control of your sexual health. Remember, it’s never a bad idea to test – even if it’s just to put your mind at ease.

Do you have your own story to tell? Click the link to share it with us!

These personal stories have been submitted to us anonymously by individuals who use our site. Some of the stories have been edited for clarity purposes and names have been changed to protect identities.

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  • Last updated: 14 November 2022
  • Last full review: 01 March 2022
  • Next full review: 01 March 2025
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