Amanda, 42 yrs old

4 yrs living HIV+

Glasgow

My HIV positive diagnosis was a relief. Finally I knew what was wrong with me, and was looking forward to feeling better.

The following weeks and months were spent attending clinic appointments, and meeting positive women for advice and support.

During this time I spent a lot of time at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. I found that being surrounded by plants and not people, helped me to accept my HIV.

It was here that I decided on the name Betsy for my little visitor. I thought that as we both had to share the same body for the foreseeable future, I needed to name her.

I am in a much happier place now because of my journey with Betsy, and am proud to be positive, and to stand tall, and be snapped.