Rebecca Tallon de Havilland is an inspiring Irish trans woman and a tireless advocate for HIV awareness. Diagnosed with HIV in 1987 during a pre-operative test for her gender affirmation surgery, she was given a grim prognosis of just two years to live. Defying all odds, Rebecca has not only survived but flourished, emerging as a leading figure in the battles against HIV and transphobia.

Her journey has been anything but easy. Rebecca has confronted immense challenges, including struggles with heroin and crack addiction, homelessness, and the relentless stigma associated with her HIV status and identity as a trans woman. She often reflects on the compounded difficulties of being both transgender and HIV-positive in the 1990s, an era plagued by widespread misinformation and fear.

Despite these hurdles, Rebecca has dedicated herself to raising awareness about HIV. She stresses the importance of knowing one’s status and actively promotes the U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) concept, underscoring that effective treatment can render the virus undetectable and non-transmissible. Additionally, she advocates for increased awareness among women, highlighting the ongoing risk many are unaware they face regarding HIV.

Rebecca has also made history as the first openly trans-Irish person to host a TV series, “Second Chances,” where she supports individuals facing various life challenges. Drawing deeply from her own experiences of hitting rock bottom and rebuilding her life, her advocacy extends to collaborations with HIV Ireland on initiatives aimed at enhancing access to HIV testing and support for trans and non-binary individuals.

Through her unwavering efforts, Rebecca Tallon de Havilland continues to shine as a beacon of hope and resilience. Her life story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the possibility of overcoming even the most daunting obstacles with the right support and determination.