A reader writes:
I am an HIV positive professional who has been studying and working in the US for the last 9 years. I found out that I was positive three years ago while processing my US green card. Because the green card process was being handled in Ecuador (I am Ecuadorian), the doctor assigned by the US embassy in Quito - reported my HIV status to the US embassy. This is how I found out about the HIV travel ban and the problems that this law brings to those like me that have this disease. After that, I have not been able to leave the US for fear that I will not be able to re-enter the country.
However, in my case, I ran out of time already. I am scheduled to leave the US in a couple of weeks after 9 years of living in NYC. My life is here and it kills me that I need to leave all behind due to this stupid policy that treats me as if I were a criminal or a terrorist. I have been hoping that this will get resolved in time so I would have the opportunity to stay in the US. or, even, if I leave, I would be able to come back. However, it seems that it won't happen soon enough for me.
If you want to help end this ban - HIV is the only disease that is legislatively designated as a bar to even entering the US - email your senator. Details here. My waiver runs out next March.