Elena Imes said even though speaking out is incredibly hard, she is hoping she can spread awareness about the silent killer in the Mountain State.

"You have HIV you can live from now until eternity," Imes said, "even AIDS now is livable because they have come so far. But, that is not good information for people to have."

Because she said information like that makes it easier for people to let their guard down and can lead to risky behavior.

And, she said she is surprised AIDS is still a topic often swept under the rug. Not anymore.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HIV is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person, by sharing needles or syringes with someone who is infected, or through transfusions of infected blood.

Some symptoms include diarrhea, weight loss and fatigue.

Health Departments across the state offer free HIV testing. In Raleigh County, tests are available everyday from 7 to11 a.m. 1 to 3 p.m.

If you have any questions about the disease or treatment you can call the AIDS Hotline at 800-590-2437.