WATCH: Catriona Gray proves HIV testing ‘shouldn’t be scary’
Catriona Gray. Image: INQUIRER.net/Tristan Tamayo
Miss Universe Philippines 2018 Catriona Gray revealed that her experience in getting tested for HIV was painless and drama-free.
Last May, the beauty queen said she got tested during Love Yourself’s “This Is Me: Brave and Free” in its Mandaluyong branch. Love Yourself is a local organization that provides free HIV tests and counseling in a safe space that values confidentiality.
A video of her experience was published last Tuesday, Nov. 13, on her YouTube channel Cat’elle.
Gray showed viewers each step that she underwent, starting with listening to an overview of HIV and undergoing an initial risk assessment by a counselor.
The test itself was quick, done through a test that involved a pinprick. Gray said she didn’t feel pain and that “it was over before I knew it.”
After 10 to 15 minutes, she received the result. The test showed a single line, indicating that it was non-reactive or negative. She also received post-screening counseling, as results are discussed whether the test is reactive or non-reactive.
“Everyone makes it feel like it’s just a normal thing. There’s no feeling of drama, there’s no feeling of suspense or uneasiness,” she said of the procedure. “Everyone is just very friendly, very welcoming. It feels like a safe space.”
If the result comes out as reactive, confirmatory testing is done and Love Yourself partners the client with a life coach.
“I just want to really reiterate that if it so happens that you are reactive, it’s OK,” Gray reassured. “There are treatment systems and support available here at Love Yourself and at their other partner organizations. And they say life goes on whether you’re reactive or non-reactive.”
A total of 2,234 Filipinos between the ages of 15 and 24 were diagnosed with HIV from January to August this year. /ra
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