I contracted HIV in 2003. Fortunately, here in Australia, from the outset our health system was completely on top of treatments and I was able to go on medications pretty well immediately and have remained healthy throughout. I'm also very fortunate that the government covers 100% of treatment, so long as you collect your drugs from specific pharmacies. In 20 years, I've not paid a cent. I consider myself extremely lucky and have been undetectable for nearly 20 years. I met my partner just at the time I became HIV+ and 20 years later we are still together and happy. He is HIV-.
that is so incredible to hear! congrats on 20 years!!! and as someone from the states...yes sir, u r VERY lucky your govt did that for you, that NEVER ONCE HAPPENED IN THE UNITED STATES
Hi David I'm also an Aussie. I came out in 1990. It was already in law that if you deliberately lied & infected people it was a criminal offence. I hope the person who did that to you was charged. I knew so many guys my age catching it that way. I also worked for Outrage magazine which covered cases of it. I have to wonder how many people are saying they're on prep or are undetecable & doing the same thing.
No one speaks about homeless gay youth these days so it’s nice to hear someone trying to do something positive. Wish you all the best luck in this and other projects.
There's endless articles and many gay youth centers The problem is they don't tackle the root of sexual abuse. He's 40 and deciding to go into prostitution. Instead of a million other directions. Problems still there. As u can see
@@dreamcloud8554Everybody talks about homelessness. Nobody seems to tackle what causes it and why people don't want to leave the streets. God damn it.
Just wanna say I am a straight, white, Christian, married woman with 4 kids having the atomic family some would say and I’m watching this with so much love, compassion, and no judgement. Love you all and I see you! ❤
Damn. I’m a 38 year old married woman listening to this man and my heart goes out to him. He’s been through so much! And is still brave enough to wake up every single day and do what he has to to survive. Keep fighting the good fight man! You’re a good person! ❤
I still see alot of pain he's enduring from his status, still living with your ex, and the fact he's still doing sex work. I hope he receives healing 🙏🏼
I worked with someone who was infected with a man who groomed her when she was 15 he was 34. They watched movies, drank hot chocolate and had unprotected anal sex. He had known for 7 years he was infected. She took him to court and he got 6 years in prison. This was in 2004 in Australia. The first case of conviction in this country for knowingly infecting someone. So crazy, I’m so sorry this happened to you 😢 💔 unfortunately you are not alone in so many ways. Thank you for sharing 💜
There has been many other stories like it but it rarely gets coverage on the media or news. I am currently bi-curious, probably closet bi and looking for a safe way to lose my gay virginity, my concerns is contracting a long term HIV disease, which has up to now stopped me from seeking my desires. I simply do not have the same concerns with intercourse with women, they have safer sex and fewer partners than gay men. Not sure what to do about it.
@@demonhalo67 Look up PrEP - it's an acronym for pre-exposure prophylaxis. You take an anti-retroviral pill every day and it protects you from contracting HIV. There's a two week lead in time to build up enough in your bloodstream to ensure no chance of infection, just so you're aware. You're still susceptible to other sexually transmitted infections though, so don't think you're invincible. Make sure you have all your vaccines for anything that has them like HPV, Hepatitis A and B, and Monkey Pox, and the moment you notice any symptoms like pain or itchiness/tingling or discharge or any spots or bumps then go straight to the clinic and get a full STI screen and any necessary treatments. You will need to get an STI screen and full bloodwork done every 3 months regardless to ensure the medication is working, that you have been consistent with dosing and have sufficient levels in your blood, and to ensure your liver and kidney function are good as those organs can be impacted negatively by the PrEP medication in susceptible people. Sounds scarier and more convoluted than it actually is, but it's literally just getting bloodwork, swabs, and a urine sample done at the same time you go to the clinic to renew your prescription every 3 months which you should be doing anyway, and the liver and kidney impacts are only going to be an issue if you have lowered function already, so don't worry, it's just to fully inform you.
What a lovely man! This made me cry. So good to see that Alan has been able to rise above so much adversity. Alan, if you see this, thank you so much for sharing your story. I’m sending you the biggest hug 💕
What he doesn't realize is that he is an inspiration to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender or identity. Thank you Matt , for sharing this...
I was diagnosed in the very first wave of testing in San Francisco, Spring 1982… diagnosed full-blown AIDS with 68 T cells… given six months to live, “maybe” a year with aggressive chemotherapy… I found my own way, my own path, and I’m still here baby !!!
I am glad you are alive because you are the voice of many lost in the middle of the storm. I am a healthcare worker, and I see HIV as another disease that can let you live an everyday life as long as you take care of yourself. Nowadays, medications are advanced, and thanks to technology, people can live a daily life. So, pray to the lord that I have the opportunity to write the comment because I was born in 1981, and it is a pleasure to talk to someone who can share their experiences since the 1980s. God bless you and happy for you.
I lived in San Fran in the mid 80s, I was a flight attendant, and had so many gay friends. I was from Miami, and we were first starting to see the first big wave of men dying from AIDS It was absolutely heartbreaking. I lost so many wonderful friends. I never had friends like some of these guys, certainly not girl friends. I wish all of you love and light. Please stay safe, and know that you are loved. Chose wisely and be safe.
I just want to give that guy (Allen?) a hug ❤. You can see how empathetic he is, he will persevere. People like that keep the world going 🥰 The dog is so cute too 😊
This powerful story exemplifies what I consider to be the central message, the core strength of your channel, Matt. Unknown heros, forged in the most horrific fires, persevering and prospering through hardships, setbacks, and prejudice who are still inspired to help make life better, or even possible for those who would otherwise suffer on the same path. Very moving and very well done.
I'm not gonna lie... hearing his pain having to relive that trauma brought up a "series of events" from when I was a young kid. I am thankful to have seen this video, as it is helping me realize that I truly need to find help to work through something I thought was "done with."
Sometimes there is someone who makes me feel like the work I did within HIV community in the 80's and 90's actually made a difference. To see someone infected from that time carrying on : healthy in mind and body is very rewarding. We need more Alan's and I hope his program creates them for years to come. TY TY TY!!
I was in medical school and started by necessity at 24 in Seattle. I met so many nice guys, however, I met some creeps, too. We were protected by the agency and once I got regulars it was smooth sailing until it started to erode my soul. Working once or twice a week and making great. money was very addictive. I'd sometimes do double shift on the AIDS wards and just had to stop escorting. It was the 80's and AIDS was spreading so quickly and we could do little to save people!
What a story. So much more than the title of the clip suggests. Grateful for Alan sharing his journey and how he is able to make connections between what he has experienced and how it has shaped who he is today. Great job in asking the right questions Matt.
This touched me in ways I can't explain. I hope to god to find the strength this guy radiates. Yet another amazing video matt. With the most amazing guy. You SLAY X
I believe this man. Some doubters might ask, "How could anyone have experienced all of this drama/trauma?" It is possible, and Alan is living testimony of that. My heart goes out to him. I truly believe that Alan's scholarship program and work with gay/trans youth will make a difference in the lives of many!
We are all just our child selves living in grown up bodies. We do our best to continue to heal whatever traumas we have endured while doing all the things adults are forced to do in this thing called life. Alan wore his heart on his sleeve and gifted us his vulnerability, which is not an easy thing to do especially in the wake of such a monumental life experience and “early death sentence” (as far as 20 yrs ago, and prior, was concerned). Just goes to show that in helping others, no matter how that looks, we help ourselves ♥️
This. THIS! This video... this story... this wonderful man. So moving, so important, so powerful. Alan is a gem.... another light in this world. Sending love and hugs his (and your) way.
Single white woman here no children, watching Matt Cullen with love for all guests & this is such a great channel. Please stay longer with the guests like this video. So fascinating to get a sympathetic look into the lives of so many nice people GREAT JOB MATT
What a powerful video, Matt. Thank you for putting in the time to film and edit this vid. Alan - you are an inspiration for surviving and thriving and developing a plan for the future that gives back. I really hope your dreams for the future will be met and you'll help lots of LGBTQ youth and young gays see there's more to life than drugs and sex! I'm glad you've survived to tell your story.
It’s been awhile since I’ve seen you. I’m in awe of your ability to connect with the wounded and hurt in our community. Thanks as always for your sharing your story and those you encounter.
What an incredible and inspiring interview, Matt! Thank you so much to your amazing guest for being so open and honest about his life and experiences. Everything he said struck a chord with me, and I was deeply moved, inspired, and filled with hope for my own trials and tribulations. Life is difficult, and a lot goes unsaid and bottled up inside for a variety of reasons. This interview was so healing because it was a reminder that you are not alone and that there are other goodhearted people out there who unfortunately dealt with adversity in their lives, and, by the grace of God, like the sun, they rise and show up and choose life! He, like you, exudes a beautiful, relatable energy that is both warm and inviting. You deserve 20 Million more subscribers honestly.
Holding back tears to this one as someone who has been through painful stuff I can feel his heart and the good that he wants to do is so important and beautiful 😢
This was a wonderful interview although heartbreaking. Truly an inspirational and resilient man. I wish him all the best with his future endeavours. Hopefully you could do an update on how he’s going with his plans in the future. Best wishes from Sydney , Australia. Sending much love.❤️💋❤️
I loved that he said “it doesn’t matter what you have to do to survive” we are all just trying to make it everyday and the way we go about that (as long as not harming anyone) shouldn’t be frowned upon. We are all trying to make our way through this world. I was dealt a good hand in life. I’m poor but I had a safe supportive childhood with a good family and that’s worth more than any money. I can acknowledge not everyone was given that foundation and whatever they chose to make money and make it through life, I will never judge. My heart goes out to anyone struggling
Matt, thank you for this! This interview...Alan, thank you! Thank you! Everything you have said. Is so prominent. You have no idea how this has helped! Please create your organization. Please keep doing the work and telling your story.
Omgoodness 😭😭😭😭 I was crying through nearly that whole video. What an amazing man he is. He has been through so much and still such a kind and genuine human being. You can tell how much his work means to him. I wish him nothing but the best and all the love ❤️
great conversation. tragic back story. beautiful aspirations. someone who aspires to be a pillar of our community always has my heart. thanks for putting this out there. thank you to alan for opening up. we love you!
It's such good journalism to just sit there and listen actively like this while allowing such space for the interviewee to breathe and pause and think and feel and process without stepping all over those delicate moments with pressured speech. Bravo. 👑👑👑 What a stunning subject and a stunning story.
This guys outlook is incredible. To smile in the face of insurmountable odd takes a strength of character that is rarely seen. As a gay man I stand by men like this. A real true man with incredible bravery. ❤❤❤
Kudos to Alan for sharing and I’m thankful for his generous example that, among other things, underscores the significance of those who sacrificed for the gratuitous entitlement and thoughtless disdain so many young gays now have for older guys.
Matt Cullen,you are the best interviewer..and the kindest human I've come across...we are all blessed to met this man and all the other interviews you have made❤❤❤❤thank you
Firstly, thank you for this great interview and to Allan, wow and thank you to your honesty. We all have our stories and trauma but our LGBTQ+ people are the true survivors, worriors and colourful creators on this planet. Stories like this will remind new generations of the fight we had to fight to ensure their freedom as well. ❤❤
Wow, this was so powerful. I’m so proud and amazed how Alan managed to be successful and turned out to be such a beautiful soul despite the many adversities he had faced in life. Great interview, Matt. And Alan is so fine too. Damn! I would give my entire RN paycheck for this pay period just to get a massage from Alan. 😂
In my twenties , I had been safe with anyone I had been with. I finally met a boyfriend I felt close enough to ask to move with me. We both said that we had always been safe when we were into this relationship. Then one day , I found out he was hooking up with men in hotels while he was at work. Men who were only in town for a day or two, and he would meet them online of course, and arrange to meet during his hour lunch breaks. I read all of these messages , and I stopped counting at 15 hookups. So of course I confronted him and it was a horrible break up. He didn't want to move out, he threatened the life of my parents if I ever told his parents that he was gay. I finally had to call the police, and that's when he grabbed a suitcase, shoved some stuff in it and ran out the door. Point I'm getting at here, is after our relationship ended , I wasn't sure what he might have brought into my home with him and to me , from these strangers he was hooking up with. So, I went to get tested . This was twenty years ago, so things were a little different. I went to a free clinic, because I didn't want anyone I knew to see me , not that I wouldn't have ran into someone there , but I felt it was less likely. He drew my blood and told me I should hear back from him in about a week or so. I got the call, instead of telling me over the phone , he asked me to come in and see him. Which made me feel like it wasn't good news. I went in, he took me to his office and shut the door , and said " your results came back negative ". Wow was I releaved. Then, and this is why I'm telling my story, he looks at me and says " Do you know where blank and blank street is? I said yes. He said " Well, me and a couple of my friends like to go to the alleyway between the old down town buildings around midnight and get naked and have sex , and I wanted to invite you to come and join us" . I.....was sitting there, completely shocked at what I was hearing! I couldn't believe a man that gives tests for HiV, was actually doing things like this! And further more, inviting a patient to participate !!! I didn't say anything, he just wrote his name and number down and said if I was interested to give him a call, he hoped to hear from me. Well, I never called , lol. Never saw that man again. It just made me feel nauseous actually. I remained single for the next 14 years . Didn't have ANY faith or trust in men at all!
Sometimes you just have to play it safe. I should have lost my gay virginity last summer as a bi curious and probably bi closet man. However was informed me he used to be an escort in the London area and felt the risk of HIV was too great. I was ready to do it all including anal, however I felt I had to walk away. Nevertheless my interest in men as well as women has not gone away. I live in a small town with no gay scene, I just want a safe avenue to explore, fed up with having to navigate the dangers. I am considering protected only anal with no oral due to transmission risks however safety concering the safety of various types of condom with penetrative anal sex remains unclear.
What a profound and genuine interview. I am so happy I came across your channel because I was feeling less than today but watching this video was so uplifting and heartfelt. I feel words cannot express enough how thankful I am for the wonderful content you bring to the community. We have forever evolved but I see so much strength and love now more than ever that it is enough to say how proud we should be. ❤❤ Thank you Matt.
What an inspiring story. I don’t know how much he’s told this, but I’m proud of him, and I hope he’s proud of himself. Beautiful story. Such a strong, beautiful soul.
WHAT a story, I always find that its the people who went through the most challenges in life emerge some of the most touching people afterwards. Thnaks for sharing!
And we see him ❤ this interview made me cry and want to give him the biggest hug ❤ I couldn’t imagine loving my daughter who’s transgender any less than I do. We need more people like him caring about our LGBQT community, especially its youth.
Wow... what an amazing man Alan is. Wise, humble, down-to-earth and above all, resilient. Very admirable. And your interviewing style is excellent and sympathetic! What a great video!
WOW! We live with so much. Thank you for sharing. Please post how we can help with the non profit idea. I wish when I was working the streets someone would have cared about me more that the object of their desire.
I want to say thank you so much for your videos. I started my own channel not long ago about topics on the gay community. You are such an inspiration! ❤️
Alan, bless you for being an inspiration to everyone trying to overcome the darkness, and becoming a shining light on a hill for others. Matt, thank you for yet another great gift.💝
One of the most important stories you’ve shared this far sadly all too relatable for so many of us and it’s amazing to see that other are going through similar experiences ❤❤❤
I contracted HIV in 2003. Fortunately, here in Australia, from the outset our health system was completely on top of treatments and I was able to go on medications pretty well immediately and have remained healthy throughout. I'm also very fortunate that the government covers 100% of treatment, so long as you collect your drugs from specific pharmacies. In 20 years, I've not paid a cent. I consider myself extremely lucky and have been undetectable for nearly 20 years. I met my partner just at the time I became HIV+ and 20 years later we are still together and happy. He is HIV-.
that is so incredible to hear! congrats on 20 years!!! and as someone from the states...yes sir, u r VERY lucky your govt did that for you, that NEVER ONCE HAPPENED IN THE UNITED STATES
It blows my mind that healthcare wouldn't be free as a fellow Australian. Great to hear that our system is working. Take care.
Nice 😊
@@KoalaBeer. I love your handle. 🐨🍺😁
Hi David I'm also an Aussie. I came out in 1990. It was already in law that if you deliberately lied & infected people it was a criminal offence. I hope the person who did that to you was charged. I knew so many guys my age catching it that way. I also worked for Outrage magazine which covered cases of it. I have to wonder how many people are saying they're on prep or are undetecable & doing the same thing.
No one speaks about homeless gay youth these days so it’s nice to hear someone trying to do something positive. Wish you all the best luck in this and other projects.
Right
Gay men should help homeless gay youths over the age of 18 to get a roof over their head. In exchange for head, of course.
There's endless articles and many gay youth centers The problem is they don't tackle the root of sexual abuse. He's 40 and deciding to go into prostitution. Instead of a million other directions. Problems still there. As u can see
No one talks about homeless youth period.
@@dreamcloud8554Everybody talks about homelessness. Nobody seems to tackle what causes it and why people don't want to leave the streets. God damn it.
You can tell he is so kind. ❤
Just wanna say I am a straight, white, Christian, married woman with 4 kids having the atomic family some would say and I’m watching this with so much love, compassion, and no judgement. Love you all and I see you! ❤
❤️
I am a WCM with 2 kids and believe in love and not throwing the first stone… glad that some of us try to be open without condemning others ❤
He's really hot 😍
❤❤❤❤
Thank you. It means a lot.
Damn. I’m a 38 year old married woman listening to this man and my heart goes out to him. He’s been through so much! And is still brave enough to wake up every single day and do what he has to to survive. Keep fighting the good fight man! You’re a good person! ❤
I still see alot of pain he's enduring from his status, still living with your ex, and the fact he's still doing sex work. I hope he receives healing 🙏🏼
I worked with someone who was infected with a man who groomed her when she was 15 he was 34. They watched movies, drank hot chocolate and had unprotected anal sex. He had known for 7 years he was infected. She took him to court and he got 6 years in prison. This was in 2004 in Australia. The first case of conviction in this country for knowingly infecting someone. So crazy, I’m so sorry this happened to you 😢 💔 unfortunately you are not alone in so many ways. Thank you for sharing 💜
There has been many other stories like it but it rarely gets coverage on the media or news.
I am currently bi-curious, probably closet bi and looking for a safe way to lose my gay virginity, my concerns is contracting a long term HIV disease, which has up to now stopped me from seeking my desires.
I simply do not have the same concerns with intercourse with women, they have safer sex and fewer partners than gay men. Not sure what to do about it.
@demonhalo67 ill help you, as long as you from sydney👅
@@demonhalo67 Look up PrEP - it's an acronym for pre-exposure prophylaxis. You take an anti-retroviral pill every day and it protects you from contracting HIV. There's a two week lead in time to build up enough in your bloodstream to ensure no chance of infection, just so you're aware. You're still susceptible to other sexually transmitted infections though, so don't think you're invincible. Make sure you have all your vaccines for anything that has them like HPV, Hepatitis A and B, and Monkey Pox, and the moment you notice any symptoms like pain or itchiness/tingling or discharge or any spots or bumps then go straight to the clinic and get a full STI screen and any necessary treatments. You will need to get an STI screen and full bloodwork done every 3 months regardless to ensure the medication is working, that you have been consistent with dosing and have sufficient levels in your blood, and to ensure your liver and kidney function are good as those organs can be impacted negatively by the PrEP medication in susceptible people. Sounds scarier and more convoluted than it actually is, but it's literally just getting bloodwork, swabs, and a urine sample done at the same time you go to the clinic to renew your prescription every 3 months which you should be doing anyway, and the liver and kidney impacts are only going to be an issue if you have lowered function already, so don't worry, it's just to fully inform you.
What a lovely man! This made me cry. So good to see that Alan has been able to rise above so much adversity. Alan, if you see this, thank you so much for sharing your story. I’m sending you the biggest hug 💕
What he doesn't realize is that he is an inspiration to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender or identity. Thank you Matt , for sharing this...
WELL THERE ARE ONLY 2 SEXES AND NO IDENTITIES
Not really.
An inspiration to respect yourself and not fall as low as he did.
He is an inspiration in that no matter what curveball life throws your way, you don't have to give up on yourself and your dreams...
No, I’m not inspired to be a hooker.
I have more self-respect than he does.
I was diagnosed in the very first wave of testing in San Francisco, Spring 1982… diagnosed full-blown AIDS with 68 T cells… given six months to live, “maybe” a year with aggressive chemotherapy… I found my own way, my own path, and I’m still here baby !!!
Consciousness and energy creates the nature of your reality!!❤ WTG!!
Glad you made it through
❤That's fantastic news ❤ Much love ❤
I am glad you are alive because you are the voice of many lost in the middle of the storm. I am a healthcare worker, and I see HIV as another disease that can let you live an everyday life as long as you take care of yourself. Nowadays, medications are advanced, and thanks to technology, people can live a daily life. So, pray to the lord that I have the opportunity to write the comment because I was born in 1981, and it is a pleasure to talk to someone who can share their experiences since the 1980s. God bless you and happy for you.
I lived in San Fran in the mid 80s, I was a flight attendant, and had so many gay friends. I was from Miami, and we were first starting to see the first big wave of men dying from AIDS
It was absolutely heartbreaking. I lost so many wonderful friends. I never had friends like some of these guys, certainly not girl friends.
I wish all of you love and light. Please stay safe, and know that you are loved.
Chose wisely and be safe.
What a genuinely nice guy!! Great heartfelt interview.
I just want to give that guy (Allen?) a hug ❤. You can see how empathetic he is, he will persevere. People like that keep the world going 🥰 The dog is so cute too 😊
This powerful story exemplifies what I consider to be the central message, the core strength of your channel, Matt. Unknown heros, forged in the most horrific fires, persevering and prospering through hardships, setbacks, and prejudice who are still inspired to help make life better, or even possible for those who would otherwise suffer on the same path. Very moving and very well done.
I'm not gonna lie... hearing his pain having to relive that trauma brought up a "series of events" from when I was a young kid. I am thankful to have seen this video, as it is helping me realize that I truly need to find help to work through something I thought was "done with."
Good for you to be so brave. Deal with it in the way that is most healthy for you
You feel so much better and happier.❤❤
Sometimes there is someone who makes me feel like the work I did within HIV community in the 80's and 90's actually made a difference. To see someone infected from that time carrying on : healthy in mind and body is very rewarding. We need more Alan's and I hope his program creates them for years to come. TY TY TY!!
Thank YOU for what you did ❤
Oh, Alan is an absolutely wonderful man. His story was so deeply moving. I love his dreams for the future.
Do you know any of his social medias? I'd love to give him a follow ❤
I was in medical school and started by necessity at 24 in Seattle. I met so many nice guys, however, I met some creeps, too. We were protected by the agency and once I got regulars it was smooth sailing until it started to erode my soul. Working once or twice a week and making great. money was very addictive. I'd sometimes do double shift on the AIDS wards and just had to stop escorting. It was the 80's and AIDS was spreading so quickly and we could do little to save people!
What a story. So much more than the title of the clip suggests. Grateful for Alan sharing his journey and how he is able to make connections between what he has experienced and how it has shaped who he is today. Great job in asking the right questions Matt.
This touched me in ways I can't explain. I hope to god to find the strength this guy radiates. Yet another amazing video matt. With the most amazing guy. You SLAY X
I believe this man. Some doubters might ask, "How could anyone have experienced all of this drama/trauma?" It is possible, and Alan is living testimony of that. My heart goes out to him.
I truly believe that Alan's scholarship program and work with gay/trans youth will make a difference in the lives of many!
I can empathize wholeheartedly 🥲💚 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️💯. thank you Matt for another great video!
This person seems so nice and I love his garden - thanks for making another interesting interview with another interesting human being! 😊
I got to crying at the end too. What a powerful sentiment. Love how vulnerable YET strong he is during this interview. Thanks for posting!
We are all just our child selves living in grown up bodies. We do our best to continue to heal whatever traumas we have endured while doing all the things adults are forced to do in this thing called life. Alan wore his heart on his sleeve and gifted us his vulnerability, which is not an easy thing to do especially in the wake of such a monumental life experience and “early death sentence” (as far as 20 yrs ago, and prior, was concerned). Just goes to show that in helping others, no matter how that looks, we help ourselves ♥️
This. THIS! This video... this story... this wonderful man. So moving, so important, so powerful. Alan is a gem.... another light in this world. Sending love and hugs his (and your) way.
Incredibly moving, incredibly authentic, incredibly real, incredibly powerful, incredibly vulnerable, thank you
Single white woman here no children, watching Matt Cullen with love for all guests & this is such a great channel. Please stay longer with the guests like this video. So fascinating to get a sympathetic look into the lives of so many nice people GREAT JOB MATT
What a powerful video, Matt. Thank you for putting in the time to film and edit this vid.
Alan - you are an inspiration for surviving and thriving and developing a plan for the future that gives back. I really hope your dreams for the future will be met and you'll help lots of LGBTQ youth and young gays see there's more to life than drugs and sex! I'm glad you've survived to tell your story.
All the best to this beautiful man on everything he does. He seems like such a kind spirit.
I had chills and tears this whole video wow this really moved me…this man is a survivor and is special and I know he will succeed
Another amazing video Matt…thank you
Wonderful good man!! Thanks for all you do!!
He has a very warm energy. Kind. I wish him and you, Matt, all the best. Great interview as always. Love sent to you both. 🩵🩵
It’s been awhile since I’ve seen you. I’m in awe of your ability to connect with the wounded and hurt in our community. Thanks as always for your sharing your story and those you encounter.
This was beautiful. Thank you, Matt! The story broke my heart! Education is everything! You are providing information that is desperately needed.
His story touched me on so many levels! This man is not only a survivor but an amazing person and humanitarian! ❤❤❤❤
What an incredible and inspiring interview, Matt! Thank you so much to your amazing guest for being so open and honest about his life and experiences. Everything he said struck a chord with me, and I was deeply moved, inspired, and filled with hope for my own trials and tribulations. Life is difficult, and a lot goes unsaid and bottled up inside for a variety of reasons. This interview was so healing because it was a reminder that you are not alone and that there are other goodhearted people out there who unfortunately dealt with adversity in their lives, and, by the grace of God, like the sun, they rise and show up and choose life! He, like you, exudes a beautiful, relatable energy that is both warm and inviting. You deserve 20 Million more subscribers honestly.
I am hiv also
So special and beautiful 🤩 turning pain into Diamond’s. So heartfelt and powerful!!! Blessings too you both ❤
Holding back tears to this one as someone who has been through painful stuff I can feel his heart and the good that he wants to do is so important and beautiful 😢
Dear Matt and Alan, I can't thank you enough for this. Your story gives hope and your actions are / will make a difference.
Hov here too
Thank you both, Matt and Alan! Very emotional and inspiring. 💖
This was a wonderful interview although heartbreaking. Truly an inspirational and resilient man. I wish him all the best with his future endeavours. Hopefully you could do an update on how he’s going with his plans in the future. Best wishes from Sydney , Australia. Sending much love.❤️💋❤️
This dude is so incredibly strong and charismatic. ❤
WOW! This one hit different Matt. Thank you for telling these stories.
As a survivor of C.S.A. I commend this man for being so considerate about ab*se and helping others. That's truly incredible...
❤
Love your empathy Matt. Keep up your great work.
I loved that he said “it doesn’t matter what you have to do to survive” we are all just trying to make it everyday and the way we go about that (as long as not harming anyone) shouldn’t be frowned upon. We are all trying to make our way through this world. I was dealt a good hand in life. I’m poor but I had a safe supportive childhood with a good family and that’s worth more than any money. I can acknowledge not everyone was given that foundation and whatever they chose to make money and make it through life, I will never judge. My heart goes out to anyone struggling
Alan, I am so proud of you and I see you. Sending you so much love and healing.
Matt, thank you for this! This interview...Alan, thank you! Thank you! Everything you have said. Is so prominent. You have no idea how this has helped! Please create your organization. Please keep doing the work and telling your story.
BRAVO! Incredible story! Thank you so much for all you have done and continue to do. You are a blessing to our community!
Omgoodness 😭😭😭😭 I was crying through nearly that whole video. What an amazing man he is. He has been through so much and still such a kind and genuine human being. You can tell how much his work means to him. I wish him nothing but the best and all the love ❤️
He has an amazing soul. I can relate to a lot of what Alan talked about. Trauma, abuse etc. One of my favorite interviews. Thank you ♥
great conversation. tragic back story. beautiful aspirations. someone who aspires to be a pillar of our community always has my heart. thanks for putting this out there. thank you to alan for opening up. we love you!
So proud of you! I was so moved by your love and desire to help others
This man, human,soul is one of the most amazing, strong,honest person I have ever listened too❤
My heart my heart, I pray all his ideas and dreams come true! He sounds genuine and kind hearted ❤🙏🏼
what a beautiful, loving man inside and out. Thank you for booking this interview.
This guy is wonderful, what a loving, caring and inspiring Person. Thanks for sharing your life and your emotions with us ❤.
What a story. Thank you, Matt, for bringing us Alan's story and letting him talk freely. Very powerful.
Alan seems like such a great guy. loved this interview
This is the best one yet.... so compelling! Beautiful and raw.
So powerful and so much love from his heart. The LGBTQ community needs more of this! More heart. Thank you ❤
Matt, yet another great interview! You are just getting better and better with your craft. I am loving the longer interviews!!
It's such good journalism to just sit there and listen actively like this while allowing such space for the interviewee to breathe and pause and think and feel and process without stepping all over those delicate moments with pressured speech.
Bravo. 👑👑👑 What a stunning subject and a stunning story.
He has gone through so much in life. May God bless him and protect him in life always.
This was an amazing moving interview. I am glad you asked him for an interview. Stories like this change ppl.
This guys outlook is incredible. To smile in the face of insurmountable odd takes a strength of character that is rarely seen. As a gay man I stand by men like this. A real true man with incredible bravery. ❤❤❤
What a touching and informative interview. This was a beautiful and needed conversation, thank you,both.😢
Kudos to Alan for sharing and I’m thankful for his generous example that, among other things, underscores the significance of those who sacrificed for the gratuitous entitlement and thoughtless disdain so many young gays now have for older guys.
Matt Cullen,you are the best interviewer..and the kindest human I've come across...we are all blessed to met this man and all the other interviews you have made❤❤❤❤thank you
He’s my Facebook friend! Such a smart and lovely person! He’s really a great guy!
He has such a big heart! Beautiful and soft soul! Love this channel!
Firstly, thank you for this great interview and to Allan, wow and thank you to your honesty. We all have our stories and trauma but our LGBTQ+ people are the true survivors, worriors and colourful creators on this planet. Stories like this will remind new generations of the fight we had to fight to ensure their freedom as well. ❤❤
Wow, this was so powerful. I’m so proud and amazed how Alan managed to be successful and turned out to be such a beautiful soul despite the many adversities he had faced in life. Great interview, Matt. And Alan is so fine too. Damn! I would give my entire RN paycheck for this pay period just to get a massage from Alan. 😂
Extraordinary courage & bravery to tell his story!❤👵🏽✌🏾
In my twenties , I had been safe with anyone I had been with. I finally met a boyfriend I felt close enough to ask to move with me.
We both said that we had always been safe when we were into this relationship. Then one day , I found out he was hooking up with men in hotels while he was at work. Men who were only in town for a day or two, and he would meet them online of course, and arrange to meet during his hour lunch breaks. I read all of these messages , and I stopped counting at 15 hookups. So of course I confronted him and it was a horrible break up. He didn't want to move out, he threatened the life of my parents if I ever told his parents that he was gay. I finally had to call the police, and that's when he grabbed a suitcase, shoved some stuff in it and ran out the door.
Point I'm getting at here, is after our relationship ended , I wasn't sure what he might have brought into my home with him and to me , from these strangers he was hooking up with. So, I went to get tested . This was twenty years ago, so things were a little different. I went to a free clinic, because I didn't want anyone I knew to see me , not that I wouldn't have ran into someone there , but I felt it was less likely. He drew my blood and told me I should hear back from him in about a week or so. I got the call, instead of telling me over the phone , he asked me to come in and see him. Which made me feel like it wasn't good news.
I went in, he took me to his office and shut the door , and said " your results came back negative ".
Wow was I releaved. Then, and this is why I'm telling my story, he looks at me and says " Do you know where blank and blank street is? I said yes. He said " Well, me and a couple of my friends like to go to the alleyway between the old down town buildings around midnight and get naked and have sex , and I wanted to invite you to come and join us" .
I.....was sitting there, completely shocked at what I was hearing! I couldn't believe a man that gives tests for HiV, was actually doing things like this! And further more, inviting a patient to participate !!!
I didn't say anything, he just wrote his name and number down and said if I was interested to give him a call, he hoped to hear from me. Well, I never called , lol. Never saw that man again. It just made me feel nauseous actually.
I remained single for the next 14 years . Didn't have ANY faith or trust in men at all!
Sometimes you just have to play it safe. I should have lost my gay virginity last summer as a bi curious and probably bi closet man. However was informed me he used to be an escort in the London area and felt the risk of HIV was too great. I was ready to do it all including anal, however I felt I had to walk away.
Nevertheless my interest in men as well as women has not gone away. I live in a small town with no gay scene, I just want a safe avenue to explore, fed up with having to navigate the dangers.
I am considering protected only anal with no oral due to transmission risks however safety concering the safety of various types of condom with penetrative anal sex remains unclear.
Hearing someone talk with so much passion in their voice absolutely motivates my soul!
What a stunning piece of emotion to watch. This man Alan is so beautiful xoxoxo
I send light and blessings over his mission~❤ his journey made this vision possible 🙏
Thank you for sharing your story. A true survivor, your story will inspire a lot of people!
This was your best interview
How powerful!!
How precious!! Deepest thanks and congratulations,🙏❤️
What a profound and genuine interview. I am so happy I came across your channel because I was feeling less than today but watching this video was so uplifting and heartfelt. I feel words cannot express enough how thankful I am for the wonderful content you bring to the community. We have forever evolved but I see so much strength and love now more than ever that it is enough to say how proud we should be. ❤❤ Thank you Matt.
Such a powerful story, and the outcome of making something so beautiful after all the trauma brings hope ❤
What an inspiring story. I don’t know how much he’s told this, but I’m proud of him, and I hope he’s proud of himself. Beautiful story. Such a strong, beautiful soul.
This was such a great video matt! I really enjoy your channel man and thanks for everything you do ! ❤🙏✨
WHAT a story, I always find that its the people who went through the most challenges in life emerge some of the most touching people afterwards. Thnaks for sharing!
He looks a million times better than he did when he was younger.
And we see him ❤ this interview made me cry and want to give him the biggest hug ❤ I couldn’t imagine loving my daughter who’s transgender any less than I do. We need more people like him caring about our LGBQT community, especially its youth.
Wow... what an amazing man Alan is. Wise, humble, down-to-earth and above all, resilient. Very admirable. And your interviewing style is excellent and sympathetic! What a great video!
WOW! We live with so much. Thank you for sharing. Please post how we can help with the non profit idea. I wish when I was working the streets someone would have cared about me more that the object of their desire.
Matt , thank you 🙏 for sharing our community stories
Gosh this broke my heart 😢 I’m in tears! Such a strong man. God bless you Allen❤🙏🏼
This episode gave me so much strength and I felt his pain 😢 but hrs so brave and I appreciate his story.
this is a beautiful person and soul. so much love even through such tragic circumstances.
I want to say thank you so much for your videos. I started my own channel not long ago about topics on the gay community. You are such an inspiration! ❤️
Alan, bless you for being an inspiration to everyone trying to overcome the darkness, and becoming a shining light on a hill for others. Matt, thank you for yet another great gift.💝
Wishing him all the best!
What a great, open and honest interview ❤
Gorgeous man
Thank you for remembering the leather community
One of the most important stories you’ve shared this far sadly all too relatable for so many of us and it’s amazing to see that other are going through similar experiences ❤❤❤
💙. What a genuinely nice person! I wish him well!