In the current news in the Philippines, HIV and AIDS cases are on the rise.  Even some Call Center agents among other Professionals polled are infected with the virus.  It is disheartening that the Philippines as a country had low cases of HIV, until recently.  It might get even worse.

LifeStyle Living is about being Happy, Healthy and Wealthy.  HIV is a quick way to get unhealthy.  There are also many complications with the Virus and I am sure high expenses.  Anyhow, I’ve decided to take the test myself and blog about it.  I figured also that since I am turning 30 next month, it would be good to finally get tested as well.  Yes, this is my first test.

Anyhow, I walked into the Local Hospital and asked if my blood could be tested for HIV.  Though, I did feel a little embarrassed about asking for an HIV test, though I knew I had to brave it.  It was last Friday afternoon.  I didn’t have to see a doctor, I was simply directed to the Blood Bank department where they also did testing for HIV.  I was greeted by a young nurse that took all my personal information and asked me some personal questions.  Questions like have you had STD’s, have you had multiple partners with unprotected sex, stuff like that.  She also did the blood test.  I can’t really say it was painless, she did stick a needle in my arm and drew 1/2 an ounce of my blood.  But it was manageable.  Ok, the pain was minute.  But I still hate needles.  After that, she cleaned me up, took the sample for testing and I had the entire weekend to think about.

Although, I knew what the outcome would be, I still had that feeling, what if?  I thought about the consequences.  It is normal to think that way, even today, right before I got my results.

I walked in today, and it turned out they tested the sample the same day.  I could have gotten my answer a lot sooner.  Anyway, at least I got a chance to reflect.  Anyhow, when I got my sealed envelope, I got nervous.  I thought, what if?  Come on, you never know.  Sometimes, you can go a long time with no symptoms and it’s there.  Anyhow, with a sigh of relief, the paper inside the envelope said:

RESULT NEGATIVE

BY MICROPARTICLE ENZYME IMMUNOASSAY

(this is how it appeared on the paper)

Our Health is our Wealth.  Without it, we can’t do anything.  That is LifeStyle Living!

I encourage everyone to get tested and get your partner tested. And when you get into a new relationship, have them get tested.  Getting tested gives me peace of mind so that I can strive for things that will make me happier, healthier and wealthier.  I hope the same with you.