Theresa Nowlin has been living with HIV since 1986.
Attending an annual dinner with other HIV/AIDS patients and their families in Boston - she said - 30 years after the virus was identified -- she and millions of others can now maintain a productive and happy existence.
SOUNDBITE: Theresa Nowlin, HIV/AIDS patient.
"Being HIV, it is not a death sentence. We can live a wonderful, happy life -- thrive."
Nowlin - a recovering drug addict - says she contracted HIV through either IV drug use or having unprotected sex.
She was living on the streets - until she joined the Boston Living Center - an community center for HIV/AIDS patients.
SOUNDBITE: Theresa Nowlin, HIV/AIDS patient.
"Back then, when I first tested positive, I was lost, I was scared, I had no idea if I was going to live or die because back then, people were dying like everyday."
The center offered Nowlin and other members nutritious meals - therapy sessions - and arts and crafts classes.
It also provided education about new medicines - medicines the 49-year-old says kept her alive.
SOUNDBITE: Theresa Nowlin, HIV/AIDS patient.
"In thirty years, we have come a long way in the medical field, with the medications that help us stay healthy, longer, live longer. There are still a lot more strides they need to be making."
Twenty-five years after her diagnosis, Nowlin participates in medical trials - and also works as a receptionist at the center.
She also joins every year with other HIV/AIDS patients - to celebrate life - and remember friends who lost their fight.
SOUNDBITE: Theresa Nowlin, HIV/AIDS patient.
"As long as we eat right, as long as we take our medications, regular doctor visits and treat our bodies well, we are going to live a long life."
Sarah Irwin, Reuters.
