We (my boyfriend and I) had tried everything to lengthen my stay in Belgium. While waiting for the determination on my status, we took an HIV test. A fortnight later, the doctor informed my boyfriend that I was positive and that he was negative. Happily he stood by my side. At the end of the month my request to lengthen my stay was rejected. I had to return to my country and to apply for a long term visa.

We addressed the issue of my health but still my application was denied. I was informed that I should seek medical care in the country of my origin through the help of aid organisations. What they didn't realise, is that when one is informed of such news one really needs some moral support. My boyfriend has accepted it as no one else has. In my country, before I knew I was HIV positive, I had a negative view of HIV positive people and AIDS patients.