I Have Something To Tell You, a Memoir by Regan Hofmann, is a heterosexual woman’s extraordinary revealing truth about combating the stigma of living with HIV. This memoir tells the story of a Princeton, New Jersey native detailing the events leading up to and the events in her life after contracting HIV. Regan writes about her ten year struggle to fully accept that she had the virus by telling her family and friends, the reactions from those around her, and trying to free HIV from the stigma that it is under, from all over the world.

This book is definitely a must read, there is no question. By reading this memoir, millions of people all over the world will discover what those living with HIV have to deal with…the judgment, the fear, the loneliness, and so much more all due to the stigma attached to HIV. This stigma holds people back from getting tested for HIV and as we see in the memoir, from telling their family and friends. By reading this memoir, millions will learn that taking a bite of your friend’s food who has HIV will not give you HIV. It’s incredible the lack of knowledge not only Americans, but the world has on this virus.

Reading a firsthand experience of Regan dealing with this virus will open up everyone’s eyes. Previous misconceptions about HIV will be taken away and readers will gain clarity, a much better understanding of what it is like living with HIV. This memoir definitely does its job in making people realize that HIV is a disease that anyone can contract and those who have it need not be treated so negatively. This is one of the most important messages in the memoir. Regan makes it a point to tell readers HIV is an equal opportunity offender and those who believe they cannot be infected are risking lives.

Regan also makes it a point to show how she has embraced her circumstance and has grown in every aspect of her life because of it. This is an extraordinary story about surviving against the odds. Along the way, information is given about HIV and how others around the world view HIV, which is very insightful and quite fascinating to say the least. There is a significant amount of symbolism used which captures Regan’s thoughts beautifully. This story is told in chronological order, which is always pleasant.

All throughout, there is a sense of repetition to reinforce the severity of thinking and acting responsibly before having sex (which is just one of the ways the virus is contracted). Regan presents us with a new and courageous perspective of what it is to be living with HIV. I was riveted by this compelling story of survival, acceptance, and the courage to come forth and embrace a life no one would ever ask for. This memoir is definitely intended for all walks of life of all ages so make sure to pick up your copy on September 22, 2009.

Read an excerpt of I Have Something To Tell You By Regan Hofmann in the October issue of POZ Magazine.

I Have Something To Tell You By Regan Hofmann will be available in stores September 22, 2009.