No it was not love at first sight. Well..not even at first chat. In fact, when we started speaking over the net we were not impressed with each other. But as time went on and we started to talk about things that were really important to us, we discovered that where it really mattered we were very much alike. We both had histories of failed relationships and certainly meeting over a computer can be a recipe for disaster.

The truth is that over the telephone, the net, and even video chat, we were incredibly drawn to each other. So after a couple of months of this we finally got to meet in person in New Jersey and spent eleven perfect days together. When we had to leave each other again, there was no doubt in either of our minds that soon, and very soon we would have to be in the same state.

So barely two months later we were moving into our new apartment in Houston, Texas. On the face of it we do not appear to be the perfect couple. There is a ten-year difference in our ages (and no, Melodie will not reveal her age here). But just spend 10 seconds in our company and you will see what we have known for some time now..we were simply meant to be together. Is it harder to have a successful relationship when two people are HIV+? No. It might even be a little easier. When you have lived with HIV as long as we have, you learn not to sweat the small stuff and to hold onto what is truly precious. We take care of ourselves and each other and hold on tight.

To all of you that have come this way, is there love after HIV? Absolutely. On June 23rd, 2000 we were joined together as life partners. We truly hope that anyone who comes our way, or visits this page will be encouraged to find the happiness that we have. HIV does not have to be the end. It is merely a change direction. Living life on this earth is the hard part and the right partner makes it that much easier. We are devoted to one another and we are survivors. We wish all friends strength, acceptance and hope for the future.

Peace..
Will and Melodie