AIDS can destroy a family if you let it, but luckily for my sister and me, Mom taught us to keep going. Don't give up, be proud of who you are, and never feel sorry for yourself.

People would get up and leave so they would not have to sit anywhere near me.

I came face to face with death at thirteen years old.

I believe in myself as I look forward to graduating from Hamilton Heights High School in 1991.

I was labeled a troublemaker, my mom an unfit mother, and I was not welcome anywhere.

I'm just one of the kids, and all because the students at Hamilton Heights High School listened to the facts, educated their parents and themselves, and believed in me.

Given six months to live and being the fighter that I am, I set high goals for myself.