For the first 10 years or so, I kept a very close record of my outbreaks so I would be fine tuned with my body. I used to have 5-8 a year and was able to recognize when they were coming and what the triggers were. In the mid 90’s all those doggone Valtrex commercials finally sunk in – I wanted to toss my records, go kayaking and have no worries! So, in 1999, I started on Acyclovir and have been relatively outbreak free since.

In 2001 my 10 year marriage ended in divorce (talk about stress – double up on the meds!!). I had been living quite reclusively, so my social circle was nonexistent. In the lots of spare time I had, I began researching herpes online to see what the latest scoop was. I was amazed at all the resources available! In addition to all the facts, which gave me much better insight, there were Social Groups, Singles Sites, Support Groups – Oh MY!

By this time, I was beginning to realize that I needed to meet people and even thought about dating again, although I was frightened to death about "the H factor". I decided I would start by dating within the circle, so signed up on one of the H sites. I also met a few people on-line through a herpes related chat room (something I was completely new to as well). It was so easy to "blindly" talk to strangers about herpes – I finally felt like I really belonged! These people knew what it was like!

It was through one of my on-line pals that I found out about a local social group, so I began going to a few group functions as well. This was another vital mechanism to opening up and becoming comfortable with the fact that although herpes is part of who I am, it does not define me. Life can still be good and fun and yes... I even took up kayaking!

I assumed the role of "Social Queen" for the local herpes social group the Seattle H Scene in early 2003. I’ve met so many wonderful people from all walks of life, veterans and newbies alike. I have been inspired by many, which has led me to explore additional involvement in the herpes community.