I am a gay man living with HIV, and have few friends. Since my HIV diagnosis, I sometimes feel suicidal, because I feel I’m useless and there’s no hope for my life and future.

I’ve been struggling even more lately, due to the stress of a government debt I got for when I forgot to vote. I often don’t even remember what day it is sometimes. Although it wasn’t a big debt, I’m on a pension, and I had no idea how I was going to pay the debt and pay for my other living expenses. My HIV doctor put me in touch with the HIV/AIDS Legal Centre. I was initially very reluctant  but the team at the Legal Centre really made me feel comfortable and I explained my problem to them.

They told me that they would contact the government agency on my behalf and tell them my individual circumstances to try to get my slate wiped clean.

Within a couple of weeks, I got a call from Eileen, the volunteer who was helping me with my matter to tell me that my debt had been waived! I was so surprised that these people were willing to help me out that much and for FREE.  I really couldn’t believe it, a poor bugger like me, deserving such help. It has taken a huge weight off my mind and I can concentrate on moving forward with life again.

[all names and information that might identify any individual have been changed for confidentiality purposes]

’45 Days, 45 Lives’ Campaign