by: 
JamesMLee
JamesMLeeThursday, December 1, 2011 at 5:33:00 PM EST
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This past summer I took my first HIV test. It was the day after the Houston Pride parade and a local clinic was offering free testing. I was never one to worry about STIs, I always thought "I'm not promiscuous, I should be okay," but something in me was telling me to go, after all, it was free. On the drive over I had to call a friend, I was so nervous. When I arrived I filled out papers and waited for the nurses to take me to the testing site.
After having been tested I was escorted to the waiting room. The room was filled with couples and singles with a big clock hanging over the TV, an episode of "Glee" was playing. I remember sitting in that waiting room thinking, "What if I have HIV?" and "I wonder how many people in this room might receive that news." It was a scary feeling. Fifteen minutes passed and the nurses escorted me to another room. My results were negative, I could breathe easy.
I know it's a scary thing to think about, but if you've never been tested, please consider it. If testing sounds too expensive, try searching online for a free clinic. If that's not an option, remember World AIDS day and the day after your local Pride parade are two times a year, usually six months apart, that you can be tested free at most local clinics.
Get tested and play safe, your future self will thank you.
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