When I was diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB), I decided to tell my mother that I suspected I had HIV as well. I was so surprised at how supportive she was. She said my family would look after me no matter what, and that I didn't have to worry about discrimination.

It was true. When I was sick in hospital with TB my sisters would grind up my pills for me so I could swallow them. They were always there for me.

But the greatest surprise was how HIV brought me closer to my father. I had always believed my father didn't love me and that we could never hope to understand each other. But when he knew about my status my father did many unexpected things and showed affection in many ways. He started studying up on HIV/Aids, attending training courses and exploring different treatment options. Now we are much closer than before. [©Ton/MSF]