Andrew Sloan’s journey is one of resilience and quiet strength. His story intertwines the profoundly personal with a city that has long been at the forefront of HIV advocacy. Originally from Scotland and living in Manchester, Andrew is not just a survivor but a testament to how a diagnosis can lead to empowerment, advocacy, and hope.

Manchester, Andrews’ adopted city, has a profound history when it comes to addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic. In the 1980s, as fear and misunderstanding swept the UK, Manchester rose as a beacon of support and activism. The formation of Manchester AIDSline in 1985—one of the first HIV-specific organisations in the country—provided a lifeline for countless individuals. This initiative eventually grew into George House Trust, a cornerstone of support for people living with HIV, where accessible, confidential advice and services continue to make a difference to this day.

For Andrew, living with HIV has been both a challenge and a call to action. Like so many, his diagnosis brought with it the weight of stigma, the fear of judgment, and the uncertainty of how life would unfold. But Andrew’s story is not one of retreat. Instead, he chose to confront the narrative surrounding HIV and become part of a community that refuses to let the virus define their lives.

In Manchester, he found a home and a city committed to change. As part of the Fast-Track Cities initiative, Greater Manchester has pledged to end all new cases of HIV within a generation. This bold commitment emphasises testing, immediate treatment, and comprehensive support, and it reflects the hope and vision that inspire individuals like Alan to take pride in their identities and futures.

Andrew’s life is deeply connected to these broader efforts. His voice adds to the chorus of individuals who are not just surviving but thriving, showing that HIV is no longer a death sentence but a part of a fuller, more prosperous life. Through local initiatives, community advocacy, and the continued work of organisations like George House Trust, he has become a symbol of the resilience that defines Manchester’s HIV-positive community.

Andrew reminds us that behind the headlines and statistics are people—each with their battles, triumphs, and dreams. In the vibrant city of Manchester, where history and activism meet, Andrew is proof that it is possible to transform fear into strength and stigma into solidarity with the proper support and a determination to live authentically.