When David tested positive for HIV in 1996, his doctor told him not to expect to see the new millennium. Today, at 81, he’s living proof of resilience and progress. His story spans fear, love, activism, and hope—a reminder of what survival means when so many others didn’t make it.
When David tested positive for HIV in 1996, his doctor told him not to expect to see the new millennium. Today, at 81, he’s living proof of resilience and progress. His story spans fear, love, activism and hope - a reminder of what survival means when so many others didn’t make it.
When you were first diagnosed, what did doctors tell you about your life expectancy? How does it feel to have far exceeded those early predictions?
I became HIV positive in 1984 but didn’t know until 1996. My doctor said, “Don’t expect to see the new millennium.” Those words hit hard. For twelve years before diagnosis, I lived in fear - checking the mirror for Kaposi’s spots, dreading eye tests. When I finally knew, my partner and soulmate stood by me. We decided survival meant taking control: working with clinicians, staying fit, and doing everything possible to manage my health.
Combination therapy in 1997 changed everything, though early meds were toxic and exhausting. We persevered because they kept us alive. At 81, my health is better than most my age. I’m proud to have joined drug trials, although some of them were physically very difficult to cope with, and used my experience to support others whose HIV journey was harder.
Before AIDS hit, I’d enjoyed the gay scene. When the epidemic came, the grief was immense
You lived through the darkest days of the epidemic. What was it like watching friends and lovers disappear while wondering if you’d be next?
Before AIDS hit, I’d enjoyed the gay scene. When the epidemic came, the grief was immense - not just for individuals but for a whole generation disappearing. I lost older friends, and while their lives felt more complete, the scale of loss was staggering.
When you look back at old photos, how many faces are still here? What’s it like being one who made it?
I wasn’t deeply involved in the scene, more in organised groups, but even so, so many faces are gone. I’m thankful for a relatively trouble-free journey, thanks to skilled care and my single minded commitment to control and nurture my own health. At 81, I have come to terms with my mortality - death is part of living. Survival feels like a privilege and a responsibility.
Do you feel survivor’s guilt? How do you carry the memory of those we lost?
No guilt. Fate is a capricious ringmaster. I carry their memory in my mind and heart. They’re part of my story.
What’s surprised you most about ageing with HIV?
Nothing surprises me - I expected age-related conditions. But I’ve stayed informed and active. I’m an “ageing with HIV” advocate, speaking to medical students and decision-makers about our needs. I mentor younger people about lifestyle and health, because what you do now shapes your later years. Activism gives me purpose - it’s my way of paying forward the care I received.
What do you want younger people living with HIV to understand?
There’s a generational divide, but shared experience unites us. Younger people welcome my wisdom. I tell them: HIV isn’t just a diagnosis - it’s a lifelong relationship with your health. Respect it, and you’ll thrive.
I’m an “ageing with HIV” advocate, speaking to medical students and decision-makers about our needs.
What should they know about our history?
The whole story of clinical changes, and their effect, positive and negative, on the HIV community is a topic worthy of its own study!
History only has value if we use it wisely to inform our decisions going forward. Acknowledge the past, live for today, dream and plan for the future.
At this stage of life, what brings you joy and purpose?
Sharing my life with a wonderful partner, in a settled place. Continuously learning more about this wonderful city. Having something, and someone, to get up for each morning. Keeping physically, sexually and mentally as fit and active as I am able, and retaining control and responsibility for my own health.
Helping others, sharing my story, and living the time I never thought I’d have. Every day feels like a bonus round. I love speaking to younger people and reminding them: you’re part of a community that fought hard for this moment. Having a positive view of my future - I’m aiming for my 90th birthday.
HIV isn’t just a diagnosis - it’s a lifelong relationship with your health. Respect it, and you’ll thrive.
If you could send a message to your younger self, what would you say?
My diagnosis was challenging, but not unexpected. This has helped me become relaxed, open and liberated with my diagnosis, and optimistic about my future.
One of the basic tenets of my life is to try never to regret anything I’ve done, or experienced, in the past. And to seek appropriate support to help me come to terms with those experiences.
David’s journey is a testament to courage and care - from the terror of the early years to the activism that shaped today’s treatments. On World AIDS Day, his voice reminds us that survival is not just about living longer - it’s about living with meaning, accepting and adjusting to life's challenges, and never forgetting those who didn’t make it.
