TikTok star Brian Chira, known for his captivating content, has opened up about his journey as a person living with HIV. Through his TikTok page, Chira took the brave step of revealing his HIV status in order to raise awareness and combat the stigma associated with the disease.
With his relatable and authentic approach, Chira has amassed a significant following on social media. However, until recently, he had chosen to remain silent about how he contracted HIV. In a candid interview with the Obinna show on YouTube, the influential content creator shed light on the circumstances surrounding his HIV infection.
Chira disclosed that he had been infected by a male friend during a party in Mombasa. Recounting the traumatic incident, he expressed the difficulty of discussing how he contracted HIV. Chira explained that he had gone to Mombasa to attend a high-end party and arrived early. While searching for a place to hang out, a friend invited him over.
Upon arrival, Chira discovered that four other people had been invited, each accompanied by their partners, forming a group of six. As the evening progressed and drinks were consumed, the situation escalated quickly. Chira shared that he felt he was taken advantage of, experiencing a moment of sexual assault. He reported the incident after returning to school.
Despite being prescribed Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (Prep) as a preventative measure, Chira unfortunately contracted HIV due to incorrect prescription usage and missed doses.
Struggling with the aftermath of the assault, Chira admitted to feeling devastated and helpless. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, someone reached out to him and encouraged him to get tested for HIV. Through an organization associated with the person, Chira received testing services, and the results confirmed his worst fears – he was HIV positive.
The weight of his diagnosis brought thoughts of his beloved grandmother to Chira's mind. Knowing that his grandmother had already endured the loss of her children, he felt crushed. However, Chira eventually found the strength to embrace a positive outlook.
Determined to confront his circumstances head-on, he made the decision to start taking medication and embarked on a journey of self-acceptance and empowerment. Chira revealed that he has forgiven the man who took advantage of him, acknowledging that he has since passed away.
Through his honesty and vulnerability, Brian Chira hopes to break the silence surrounding HIV and inspire others to live without fear and shame. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness, support, and understanding in the fight against HIV stigma.