One of the biggest problems with HIV and AIDS today is the stigma and prejudice that comes with it. Julie is HIV positive, this is her story of how, with the support of family and friends, she continues to work to break down the social barriers linked to HIV and AIDS

I was diagnosed HIV positive in 1991 aged 24 at the time I was at college, but working as a cook/nanny in the holidays. Despite fear, shock and the lack of awareness, my friends supported me. I spent much of the next few years working with agencies and schools to raise awareness. The first five years were difficult as there were no treatments and many of the friends I had made died. Although I see myself as one of the lucky ones with little or no experience of rejection from friends and family, it was hard to swim against the tide of negativity and prejudice and remain positive and forward thinking.

I sometimes found the attitude of the medical profession difficult. I had to have a minor operation and when I came round there was a hazard sign at the bottom of my bed with danger of infection on it. Because of the support of my family and friends I was able to challenge this, though it's not necessarily what you feel like doing when you come round from an anaesthetic. Dentists have been problematic too. In the early days one would only give me the last appointment of the day and even then he and the nurses were in green gowns and wellies. I often use humour to diffuse things or get a point across and suggested that there must be some mistake as I had come for two fillings not open-heart surgery. On a more serious note, I pointed out that just because I had told him I was positive didn't mean that I was the only person using his surgery who was, most people don't know, and you really can't tell. Last year on seeing that I was HIV positive a dentist told me I had such bad gum disease that I may lose my teeth. He said that I would have to have specialist treatment at the dental hospital. After a two month wait, worrying about my teeth, the dental hospital told me there was nothing wrong with my gums.

I do get frustrated and angry that I have to bear the brunt of the ignorance and prejudice of those unwilling to see beyond my HIV status, but the support of family and friends helps me get beyond this. So far I remain treatment free and in good health and am glad that I didn't give up on myself all those years ago. Since diagnosis I finished a diploma, did a degree, and have had a number of fulfilling work roles both within the HIV field and elsewhere. I've worked with groups ranging from young people in care to the Women's Institute, also working with a broad range of services from GUM clinics and social services to community and youth groups and direct support for other positive women. I have also worked outside the HIV sector in a number of roles ie bar work, care assistant, raising awareness about domestic abuse, and my current role, co-ordinating mediation services.

For more information on prejudice associated with HIV and AIDS, visit www.areyouhivprejudiced.org.