My name is Teniecka Hannah, and I am 25 years old
My name is Teniecka Hannah, 25 years old, from Colorado Springs, CO. I am a volunteer for the American Red Cross on a Military installation and a junior at Colorado Christian University studying Organizational Management in Human Resources.
Before finding out in May of 2001 that I was HIV positive my life was normal; heading in the direction I wanted to head. I was real sick, I went to my dad’s base to find out that I had thrush, a symptom of HIV. I was tested and later found out that I was HIV positive. My emotions were everywhere; scared, angry, confused. The military informed my family of my status and I immediately began to feel different being around them. I had a tough time for about a year trying to get an understanding of what being positive meant. After I got a grip on everything, I went to a local organization in my area, and they have been working with me since my diagnosis. I really appreciate them for all they have done and continue to do for my family and myself.
Sitting back and pondering the last five years, I realize how selfish I had become. I felt that everyone should pity me and feel sorry for me. I felt like this for the longest time but I have come to a realization that the world does not owe me anything. I need to be opening my mouth and instead of complaining and feeling sorry, do something about it. I want to play an active role in helping prevent the spread of HIV and let people gain knowledge.
Since testing positive for HIV, I look at the world in a very new perspective. Life is a precious treasure and if taken lightly can be gone in moments. My family is now handling the news much better than when they first learned about my diagnosis. My family makes me feel accepted; they take interest in me and what is going on physically, mentally, and emotionally. I am glad to have them care so much about me to make sure I eat right and do what I am suppose to.
Hey! I got a master plan that’s just going to excel me in the future! I’m determined to go back to school for my Master’s in Business Management. I would also love to open my own non-profit organization to help and give back to my community. For now, I plan on staying focused, getting through my classes and living life to the fullest.
I am especially thankful, honored, and blessed to have an opportunity to help and not just sit back. I understand that I have a purpose and my goal is to fulfill that purpose in whatever way I can. At the end of the day, I want to know I made an impact on someone. I also have a goal to let people know that there is hope for the present and the future. I cannot change my past but I can definitely learn from my mistakes and keep moving. Challenges come throughout life and one just needs to know how to deal with different circumstances. I am thrilled, passionate for making changes in people’s lives and looking forward to a fruitful future.
Gratefully,
Teniecka
Who’s Positive is gracious to Boutte's Photography (http://www.bouttes.com/) for donating their time in taking photographs of Teniecka for her profile.
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