At just 21 years old, Ellie Harrison faced a life-altering diagnosis of HIV, which came as a shock given her lack of symptoms prior to testing. The moment she received the news was filled with dread, as it was clear that such a phone call usually heralded bad news. Living in London and preparing for her final year of university, Ellie found herself grappling with emotions she never expected to confront, leading her to feel isolated and burdened by the weight of her diagnosis.

In the months following her diagnosis, Ellie felt a profound sense of secrecy surrounding her condition, describing how 'the secret was killing me.' Attempting to maintain a facade, she struggled with the stress of hiding her condition from friends and family, which compounded her feelings of loneliness and anxiety. The need to explain her new medication without revealing the truth became an overwhelming challenge—one that took a toll on her mental health and well-being.

Ultimately, Ellie made the courageous decision to share her diagnosis publicly. Now, she is actively campaigning to raise awareness and combat the stigma surrounding HIV. Her story highlights the critical need for open dialogue about health issues and the importance of support for those diagnosed with conditions often shrouded in negativity. Through her advocacy, Ellie hopes to foster understanding and help others in similar circumstances feel less alone.