How HIV treatments make it easier to live with it

FRESNO, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – Finding out you have HIV can be scary and intimidating news, but so much has changed that now people can lead long and fulfilling lives; they no longer have to worry about transmission to their loved ones. There is also so much support and HIV no longer carries the stigma it once did.

Leslie Leiburg had no idea she had HIV until she went for a pregnancy check-up, but she soon found the support, guidance and treatment she needed at the special services clinic on Community Regional Medical Center’s campus.

“When I came over here, they really put me at ease. And I’ve been seeing Dr. Gomez since 2014, and I love him,” she said.

Doctor Ivan Gomez has cared for those with HIV and AIDS for nearly 25 years. He says the clinic has been at the forefront of the battle against HIV for decades.

Part of what makes it so successful is how they are able to meet patients where they are at in their journey.

“I think whenever anyone presents for care, for any health condition, not just HIV, but particularly for HIV, you know, part of it is kind of seeing what place they’re coming from, and giving them the support and reassurance that, you know, we’re here to help you,” he said.

HIV was once thought of as a death sentence for many people. But all of that has changed thanks to new treatments that are available. They not only help those who have HIV, but they also prevent its transmission.

And people like Leslie are not only living productive, normal lives, she has become an advocate and a support resource for others.

“I tell everybody and I educate people about, how it is to have it and what it is now. I’m living a great life with no issues. I’m going to live for probably longer than the cockroaches,” she said. “Honestly, I feel like because I get immunized for everything and I feel like because of them, I get the best care that I possibly can, I think.”

Community provides a variety of support groups and resources for people living with HIV.

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