Our Lady J Instagram – This photo was taken a few months before I found out I had AIDS, nearly 18 years ago. I was deathly thin and suffering from opportunistic infections caused by my dwindling immune system, with staph infections causing oozing blisters all over my body. I hid my sickness with glamour, telling myself that I was just “fashion thin,” because the reality of AIDS was too terrifying for my young, queer soul. In a moment of grace, I got tested and went on meds, which saved my life. Doctors loaded me up with antibiotics, anti-retrovirals, and prescription protein packets to counter the wasting that AIDS had inflicted on my body. Although I’ve been open with my HIV status, I’ve kept my AIDS diagnosis silent for all these years because it’s just been too damn scary. I am so grateful for the doctors, nurses and scientists who didn’t let this fear stop them from fighting for my life. On this World AIDS Day, I hope we remember what they taught us — that pandemics are only intensified by fear and shame. Choosing science is the surest way to calm these fears and ensure our survival. Let’s honor those we lost by leaning on our collective wisdom to get through this current pandemic. Lets treat ourselves and those around us with the kindness and love that we all deserve. Sending love and strength to everyone, now more than ever. ❤️ 🏳️‍⚧️ ☀️ #worldaidsday #hiv #aids #transisbeautiful