A church minister from Hayling Island, near Portsmouth, UK, chose to tell her congregation that she is HIV positive in a moving video using cardboard signs.
Hayley Young, who has been minster of Hayling Island Baptist Church since 2011, said in the video that she contracted the disease following an attack in 2013.
She hadn't told many people about it, but after rumours about her illness she decided to tell the church earlier this month.
Some of those she had already told had been supportive, but others suggested that she was "dangerous" and "shouldn't be near children". The mixed responses highlight the prejudice experienced by those with HIV.
In the video Young is remarkably honest about the difficulties of being vulnerable as a church leader.
"I kept smiling and joking because: I'm your pastor, I'm meant to be strong, I'm meant to have all the answers but inside I was struggling... I knew God was there but he seemed so far away."
She said she didn't think she could cope, but "just as God promises He carried me when I was unable to walk."
She also shared her fears for the future, including "not being in control" and "not getting old", but then said "God tells me He is in control, He knows my future, He provides for me, He loves me."
Young explained the side effects of the drugs that she was experiencing, including feeling weak and tired, but pointed out the blessings too – "I no longer have to worry about my hair going curly in the rain!" adding: "Seriously, I know that I am God's masterpiece and he hasn't finished with me yet... Having HIV doesn't mean that I can't have the quality of life that Jesus offers."
Her final cardboard message said: "I am the same as I was before just a bit more positive"
Those who know her showed their support by posting heartfelt messages beneath the YouTube video.
Alan Griffths wrote: "Rev Hayley, surely the most extraordinary, courageous person it has been my priviledge [sic] to know. The reckless actions of others and illness may have weakened the body but you are surely anointed and blessed by God, and continue to be a blessing to all those who know and love you."
Nickie Howard said: "Our Hayley, we respect, love and admire you the same as we always have done".
Thank you to all who have given me encouragement & support over the past few days - I feel very humbled by the response to my 'coming out'
— Hayley Young (@revhayley) May 11, 2015 " data-caption="null" data-credit="null">
