She's movin' on with her life.

I left the Herpes support group, because I feel like I have closure with having HSV2. I have had HSV2 for 3 years, the man I slept with lied to me about having an STD, and I was blessed with the souvenir. I am now 28 years old. I was always on the group site looking for responses to how potential suitors handled the news of being told, and when was a good time to tell a potential partner. I have told a few people, most react well, it's true that how you tell matters to how they react. People do trust and respect you for being honest and wanting to protect them. I realized that I have a lot to offer and that patience pays off. I didn't feel desperate to be in a relationship, I only dated people I genuinely liked and was attracted to. I only told those that I felt like I wanted to be serious with, which wasn't many, but I'm kind of picky. I think it's important to date as if you didn't have anything to worry about, tell when you feel like it's someone you can trust, care about and someone you would genuinely want to be with. I realized it's best not to wait too long, so that it's not painful if it's something they can't handle. I am beautiful, intelligent, funny, kind and fun. I was not willing to settle for someone just because they might accept me with HSV2. Having herpes really is not a big deal. Basically, I'm now in a fabulous relationship with the best man I have ever met, he's handsome, smart, sexy, sweet, talented, honest and fun! I'm now on daily Valtrex 500MG, it's almost like I don't even have the virus. Obviously, I watch out for prodome and symptoms to keep him safer. I know that it is important to give people time to digest the information. After I told my guy, it seemed like he was only interested in being friends, we still would snowboard together, but there was a distance between us. Two weeks later, he came around, it may have been me feeling awkward and unintentionally pushing him away. It's perfect now. Having HSV2 isn't a big deal, it truly is very common and there is no reason to pitty yourself or settle. I'm happy and feel great. Being involved with a herpes support sight was a big help to me when I doubted myself, thank you. Feel free to post this email, it may help someone.

Sincerely,

Stephanie

Stephanie, thank you for allowing me to share your feelings on how a herpes support group has helped you. Hopefully others will find it inspirational for them.