I was diagnosed with HPV in 2010, and I was terrified. I felt completely alone, like I couldn't talk to anyone and was somehow cursed. I hesitated to tell my partner, afraid it would end our relationship. When I finally did after a few weeks, the news wasn't received well, and I was crushed. I talked to my doctors and followed every step to make sure I was okay. Over time, I learned more about HPV, and I'm grateful that science and awareness have come a long way in the last 15 years.