He aimed to challenge preconceptions that people living with HIV are weak with his show of strength. Rugby star Gareth Thomas spoke on Good Morning Britain about the misconceptions surrounding HIV as he celebrated his wedding anniversary. American Olympic diver Greg Louganis was diagnosed with the disease six months before the 1988 Games in Seoul. 'You wake up one morning thinking: 'I can handle it. Rugby legend Gareth Thomas has completed a 140-mile triathlon just a day after revealing he is living with HIV. Well done: The 45-year-old is pictured on his bike this morning after completing a 2.3-mile swim. Gareth also hugged his parents Yvonne, 70, and Barry, 69, who were cheering him on in the Wales ironman contest in the seaside resort of Tenby, West Wales. To mark World Suicide Prevention Day, over the course of this week, we will tell you the stories of brave survivors, relatives left behind, heroic Good Samaritans - and share tips from mental health experts. Gareth Thomas married husband in 2016 as he reveals HIV - Metro Gareth Thomas reveals he's living with HIV and says diagnosis left him suicidal - Mirror Online. In September 2019 he became the first major British sports star to come out as HIV-positive. 'It was who I was, and I just couldn't ignore it any more. Isabel Oakeshott receives 'menacing' message from Matt Hancock, Ken Bruce: 'I always wanted to be a radio presenter from about 15', Pavement where disabled woman gestured at cyclist before fatal crash, Pro-Ukrainian drone lands on Russian spy planes exposing location, 'Buster is next!' Thomas, who is affectionately known as 'Alfie' due to his 'resemblance to the alien character in the TV sitcom 'Alf', battled with his sexuality for years, telling of how he was driven to the brink of suicide on multiple occasions. It is claimed he called Mr Thomas for an explanation and according to the documents, Mr Thomas was "very repentant and apologetic". 'He is a remarkable individual who is mentally equipped to deal with this illness. I'm speaking out because I want to help others and make a difference.. Jemma spoke out about the compassion she felt for Gareth when he first revealed the news to her, telling the Mirror: It was the worst day of my life. When someone else knows a secret as big as that they can determine your happiness or sadness every morning and use it as a weapon against you and your family.. Rugby legend Gareth Thomas has agreed to pay75,000 plus costs to a former partner who accused him ofhiding his HIV status during their relationship. Many people live in fear and shame of having HIV, but I refuse to be one of them now. But 12 years later, when oldest sister Jessica sees a woman . He ran across and hugged a man who was visibly crying and that set Gareth off too. Gareth Thomas jokes he is "punching" as he celebrates three-year wedding anniversary, Gareth discussed the misconceptions surrounding HIV, Gareth and Ian are celebrating three years of marriage, Gareth takes daily medication and it ensures his HIV is not contagious. I wasn't expecting it at all. Since going public with the news on Sunday, he has been praised for his bravery by admirers including Princes William and Harry. Earlier he finished a 2.3 mile swim in the event which started at 7am on Sunday morning. Welsh rugby legend Gareth Thomas agrees 75,000 settlement in legal battle with ex-partner who accused him of infecting him with HIV after hiding his positive status Former Wales captain. Stephen was the first to sob in the brief encounter but Gareth had to wipe away tears as he rejoined the race. Gareth, who was married to teen sweetheart Jemma for six years before coming out, said: I sat down on a chair next to a doctors bench. ': Sir Clive Woodward interviews Eddie Jones ahead of England's World Cup bid. As he finished the swim section in just under an hour and a half, the former rugby player clambered onto his bike for a 112-mile cycle. Jemma suffered three miscarriages as the couple tried to start a family during their marriage. The comments below have been moderated in advance. He was the first British rugby international. Prince Andrew chuckles as he encounters female jogger on way to his weekly Windsor horse-riding trip. "It is quite easy to educate people, but to re educate people when they think they know everything about HIV, is even more difficult.". 'I genuinely think it's going to save people's lives,' he said. Many people live in fear and shame of having HIV, but I refuse to be one of them now. Who is Gareth Thomas' husband and when did he split from his wife In the video posted to his Twitter page, he said: "I want to share my secret with you. Ian Baum has accused the former Wales rugby captain of "deceptively" transmitting HIV to him, Gareth Thomas disclosed he was HIV positive in 2019, Russian minister laughed at for Ukraine war claims. By Praise:Gareth Thomas has credited husband Stephen (pictured) for supporting him as he went public with his HIV diagnosis. The 45-year-old was cheered on by the crowds as he managed to finish the mammoth Ironman Wales challenge in 12 hours, 18 minutes and 29 seconds, coming 413th out of 2,039 participants. "Gareth is a hero in Wales where he is respected for what he achieved on the rugby field and off it and we will support him through this. We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. When I first found out that I was going to have to live with HIV, the first thing I thought was straight away: I was going to die, he said. "I dont blame people for thinking it, because I did too, but we need to change that by talking about it and educating people.". Though he admitted his diagnosis two years ago felt like a death sentence, he says he soon found that, with the right medication, it was manageable to the point that he does not suffer symptoms. The star later switched to rugby league and led Wales to victory over France in the European. Not the evils threatening to tell you before I do. His husband Stephen and Stephen's daughter Anna, 23, who all live together in Bridgend joined thousands on the sidelines of the marathon section of Ironman. Thomas said he 'knew he was gay' at the age of around 16 or 17, but failed to accept it until years later. You can unsubscribe at any time. This means that we may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. Find out what Uber drivers really think of you! Gareth Thomas CBE (born 25 July 1974), [1] nicknamed "Alfie", is a Welsh former professional rugby union and rugby league player, who represented Wales in both sports. We also may change the frequency you receive our emails from us in order to keep you up to date and give you the best relevant information possible. Interactive map reveals when you may see SNOW. Find out what Uber drivers really think of you! "I had a fear people would judge me and treat me like a leper because of a lack of knowledge. As always you can unsubscribe at any time. Thomas said of his husband: Stephen is from the Valley and isnt used to media attention or the idea of giving interviews., The former British Lions captain added: He loves me and supports me 100 per cent in what Im doing.. "On googling the GSK1 pill, the claimant discovered that the defendant was taking antiviral HIV medication," the documents said. I've stood on so many cliff edges. Everything is fine,' and the next morning you don't want anyone to see your face, because you think that if people look at you, they will know.'. He came 413th out of 2,039 participants. Thomas, who has appeared on Celebrity Big Brother and Dancing On Ice, got to know Prince William after the prince was made the vice royal patron for the Welsh Rugby Union in 2006. The rugby legend yesterday said he is revealing his diagnosis because he wanted to 'make a difference' by helping end the stigma surrounding the virus. The rugby player said: 'Stephen is from the Valley and isn't used to media attention or the idea of giving interviews, but he loves me and supports me 100 per cent in what I'm doing.'. The popular television regular and former Wales captain, who. It doesn't discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society - from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers. When Mr Thomas revealed he was HIV positive, Prince William tweeted: 'Courageous as ever, legend on the pitch and legend off it.'. The former Lions captain considered 'driving after a cliff' after the diagnosis Credit: Getty Images - Getty. Gareth was forced to consult legal representatives and speak out about his diagnosis after a tabloid newspaper found out about his HIV status and sent reporters to his parents home. He added that he has started a website to help break down the barriers and that we have to celebrate the steps forward in the science. Stephen is 56 years old and has a daughter, Anna, who is 23. He said he was "shocked" to find after conducting a survey that 50% of people said they felt they could contract HIV from a partner if that partner was on effective treatment . The retired sportsman toldOK! He hung up his boots in 20111 and came. The man-hug moment came as Gareth completed the 112-mile cycle ride element of the endurance race and was about to start a full marathon. The Celebrity Big Brother star, 45, stunned the sporting world yesterday by dramatically declaring he is living with the incurable virus. 'As the largest HIV charity in the UK said, there are no winners in HIV cases like these, and that is certainly the case. I'd been through every emotion under the sun trying to deal with this. Gareth Thomas: Top 10 Facts You Need to Know - FamousDetails He said he hoped his public acknowledgement of his sexuality would help other young gay sportsmen seek support from charities and help groups. All rights reserved. These include: But Gareths condition is now under control to the point it is considered 'undetectable' and cannot be passed on. Revealed: The top 10 fastest-growing destinations for UK pensioners retiring overseas. Gareth Thomas (@gareththomas14) September 14, 2019. Gareth Thomas reveals husband Stephen has been a 'beacon of light His older brothers are Richard and Steven. He admitted cheating on her multiple times, insisting he always practised safe sex when sleeping with men. At club level Thomas played for Bridgend, Cardiff RFC, Celtic Warriors, Cardiff Blues and French side Toulouse. The former Wales captain has had an emotional 24 hours after he revealed to . "Then I was thinking how long have I got left? I was distraught.. He began his sporting career with his native Bridgend in 1994, staying there for three years. Gareth Thomas husband: Is he married? The emotional moment he broke Thomas did not say when he was diagnosed, but revealed that he had to tell a number of former sexual partners as a matter of 'duty' so they could get themselves tested too. Brave Gareth left the track and leaned over a. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/, Gareth went to hug his husband during the race, Tears were streaming down his face as he continued running, Stephen smiling after the emotional encounter with his husband, Gareth was cheered by spectators as he took on the gruelling Ironman challenge in Wales, It came after he opened up about his secret HIV battle, Prince William sent Gareth a message of support, Gareth Thomas celebrates as he crosses the finish line, Gareth is embraced by former Wales international rugby team mate Shane Williams by the finish line, The rugby legend celebrates with his husband Stephen, Prince William speaks with Gareth at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff on February 4, 2007, Gareth started the contest with a two mile swim, He then completed on a 112 mile bike ride, Gareth Thomas was seen smiling and pumping his fist as crowds cheer him on, Gareth was married to teen sweetheart Jemma for six years before coming out, He appeared on Dancing on Ice with dance partner Robin Johnstone in 2013, He was capped 100 times for Wales and met former Prime Minister David Cameron in 2011 to discuss homophobia and transphobia in sport, The former Lions captain considered 'driving after a cliff' after the diagnosis, Gareth with Denise Welch on Celebrity Big Brother in 2012, Wales and Lions Rugby legend Gareth Thomas reveals he is HIV positive, sick blackmailers had started using his diagnosis as a weapon, Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO). In November 2018 he was assaulted in Cardiff city centre in a homophobic attack. As he drove to Cardiff Royal Infirmary, he called a friend in tears: "I told him, Ive got HIV Im going to die. ', Thomas came out at the end of his rugby career and said at the time: 'I don't want to be known as a gay rugby player, I am a rugby player first and foremost I'm a man.'. I was in a dark place, feeling suicidal. Prince Andrew chuckles as he encounters female jogger on way to his weekly Windsor horse-riding trip. "And having a strong support system and the personal strength and experience of overcoming those emotions got me through it. It is alleged he found out Mr Thomas had HIV when he saw a tablet marked GSK1. Then I was thinking, 'How long have I got left?'. Since he came out in 2009, Thomas has worked with numerous charities, including ChildLine, the Terrance Higgins Trust and Stonewall. The former rugby international, 45, confirmed he is living with HIV in September, after secretly living with the virus for years. Gareth Thomas has credited his husband Stephen Williams Thomas with helping him through being blackmailed over his HIV diagnosis. Gareth Thomas with his husband Stephen on Sunday Credit: Alamy Live News. The pair are seen canoodling in a bubble bath as they strip off for. She told me in a quite matter of fact way I had tested HIV positive. I'm a vet, and here are five dog breeds most prone to cancer - including Golden Retrievers and Rottweilers. Mr Thomas, who made a public announcement he. "I hope people lining the route cheer extra loudly when he passes them on the road.". I was afraid of telling him, but I remember thinking, if you are who I think you are, this wont be an issue., And if it had been an issue, then it wouldnt have been the right match anyway.. Magazine, Do not sell or share my personal information. To see all content on The Sun, please use the Site Map. X Factor's Steve Brookstein claims Gareth Thomas 'burdens the NHS' in Only once the immune system is already severely damaged will the person show new symptoms. Thomas has reduced his illness to an undetectable state by taking a daily tablet, meaning he cannot pass HIV on to others. RUGBY legend Gareth Thomas broke down in tears hugging his husband during an Ironman race today just hours after revealing he is HIV positive. Yet, it's rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now. He completed a two-mile swim in Tenby, West Wales, in just under 90 minutes before clambering on to his bike for a 112 mile cycle. Gareth married his teenage sweetheart Jemma in 2002. Stephen, 56, added that he was full of pride for Gareth, who announced his HIV status shortly before participating in a gruelling Ironman Triathlon. What a super hero this bloke is. Me and Stephen have been together four and a half years and I told him about my diagnosis early on in our relationship, said Gareth. Gareth Thomas is a former Welsh rugby player. HIV carriers can be charged with grievous bodily harm if they fail to declare their status to potential sexual partners and pass on the infection. 2023 BBC. During his time in France he was found guilty of assault in 2005. Welsh rugby fan Sue Parry, 58, added: 'I didn't know until someone in the crowd said. It makes no difference to the measure of the man.'. I'm a vet, and here are five dog breeds most prone to cancer - including Golden Retrievers and Rottweilers. Gareth Thomas has thanked his husband Stephen for being his "beacon of light". He played for Wales at the 2007 Rugby World Cup and played in four tournaments altogether. Thomas appeared as a contestant on TV's Celebrity Big Brother where he reached the final three. Former Wales and British and Irish Lions captain Gareth Thomas has been accused of "deceptively" transmitting HIV to a previous partner, according to High Court legal papers. Gareth Thomas has credited husband Stephen for supporting him as he went public with his HIV diagnosis. Gareth Thomas has revealed he married husband Stephen nearly three years ago, as he told the world of his HIV diagnosis. And the legend has been met with support since he revealed his diagnosis - with Prince William even tweeting out a message to Gareth. Gareth Thomas and husband Stephen deliver supplies to - mirror I wasnt expecting it at all. their fourth in successionCooper rues 'self-inflicted' defeat Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper said:"I think a lot of it is self-inflictedWe rode our luck at times, of course we did, but we had to stay strongWe were really good to show great characterwinning their last nine league games straight after holding Arsenal to a 0-0 draw at Kingsmeadow in February. Interactive map reveals when you may see SNOW. 'Everyone supported him when he came out as gay and that support will be even stronger now.'. He had wanted to keep the information from his parents, Yvonne, 70, and Barry 69, fearing it would 'hurt' them. Brooklyn celebrates turning 24 by heading out in Paris with wife Nicola Peltz and Nicola Peltz's fans question if 'feud' with mother-in-law Victoria Beckham is REALLY over as she posts Victoria Beckham leads the sweet birthday messages for son Brooklyn's 24th as the family finally reunite in Tragedies of Everest: The adventurers forever frozen in ice after losing their lives scaling the world's 'Why the last-minute delay?' In 2020, Thomas was given a special prize at Wales' St David Awards for campaigning against HIV stigma, one year after publicly revealing he had the virus. He came out as gay in 2009 following a split from his wife and childhood sweetheart Jemma in 2007, becoming the first openly-gay rugby player in Britain. Will El Salvador's new mega-prison turn into a bloodbath? Gareth Thomas, best known for being a Rugby Player, was born in Bridgend, Wales, UK on Thursday, July 25, 1974. It almost felt as if someone I loved had suddenly died, but he was still standing there in front of me. "Hes had this condition for quite a while so hes been living with a terrible secret. The Sun website is regulated by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. The former rugby star has also been awarded a CBE for services to sport and health, and is an ambassador for the Terrence Higgins Trust HIV charity. Gareth Thomas reveals he's living with HIV and says diagnosis - mirror Someone with AIDS has both HIV and at least one of a specific list of 'AIDS-defining' diseases, which include tuberculosis, pneumonia and some types of cancer. He turned and rejoined the race but you could see tears in Gareths eyes. Inside Gareth Thomas' marriage to childhood sweetheart Jemma - mirror For other inquiries, Contact Us. What will the next pandemic be? Many in the diving community rounded on Louganis for not disclosing his diagnosis as they argued that blood spilling from his head could have infected the pool with the disease. Also in attendance was his husband, who shared an emotional embrace with Thomas during and after the race. Welsh rugby legend Gareth Thomas hugs husband Stephen at Ironman Wales I had a fear people would judge me and treat me like a leper because of a lack of knowledge. Ahead of the 140-mile triathlon in Tenby, the former Wales rugby captain said he wanted to break the stigma around the virus. Complete Encyclopedia Formula One (Motor Racing), Hill, Tim and Gareth Thomas., 9781445439624 | eBay A year later he appeared on Dancing On Ice, when he was partnered with professional skater Robin Johnstone. He told The Sunday Mirror: Ive been living with this secret for years. The allegations, referring to a period between 2013 and 2018, came before Mr Thomas announced in an interview and BBC documentary in 2019 that he was carrying HIV. The gesture, which challenged the belief that HIV or AIDS could be transmitted by touch, showed Diana's compassion for other people and sparked the beginning of her work with people affected by the disease. View our online Press Pack. We need to break the stigma. He said: 'I've been living with this secret for years. We use your sign-up to provide content in the ways you've consented to and improve our understanding of you. Gareth Thomas addresses moment Prince Harry - Express.co.uk While he was still playing in France he suffered a major health scare after a neck injury. Princess of Wales 'super impressed' after boy performs impromptu He revealed that afterwards he was 'threatened by people who said they would give away my secret', who he feared would 'use it as a weapon' against him and his family. But he decided to break the news to his parents and two older brothers after blackmailers started using his diagnosis as a weapon. Can Nigeria's election result be overturned? Experts weigh in as tremors hit Wales, Cornwall and the Are YOU eating the right colours? Its not like I blame people for not knowing this. In a message from the Kensington Palace Twitter, the future king said: "Courageous as ever legend on the pitch and legend off it. He posted a video on his Twitter Page showing his bruised and cut face from the Saturday night 'hate crime' in the Welsh capital. VideoRussian minister laughed at for Ukraine war claims, The children left behind in Cuba's mass exodus, Snow, Fire and Lights: Photos of the Week. If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems the Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123, or visit Minds website. Who is Gareth Thomas' husband? Kate and Prince William 'are keen' for Prince George to have official role in King Charles' coronation - but Royally hard work! Welsh rugby legend Gareth Thomas has spoken of the support he receives from husband Stephen after revealing he is living with HIV. Gareth is one of the worlds leading international try-scorers, and he has been supported throughout his career by Jemma, who he met when the pair were youngsters. Piers and Susanna wished him a happy three-year anniversary with husband Stephen Williams-Thomas, and Piers asked: "Are you punching as heavily as I am?". Speaking ahead of a documentary for BBC Wales, he added that he had thought his life would be over after finding out the diagnosis. The 45-year-old bravely told the world . Thomas, who retired from rugby in 2011, went public with his HIV status on the eve of the opening of the Rugby World Cup, which starts on Friday. Why? RUGBY legend Gareth Thomas broke down in tears hugging his husband during an Ironman race today just hours after revealing he is HIV positive. Thomas is pictured taking part in Dancing On Ice in January 2013 alongside his skating partner Robin Johnstone. Gareth Thomas came close to suicide after confessing to his wife that he was gay. Spectator Emma Barazia, 49, said: 'Gareth was a great rugby player but he's going to be a bigger hero to so many people now. Emotional Gareth Thomas hugs husband during race hours after - mirror Gareth Thomas (@gareththomas14) September 14, 2019. He explained: I needed to take control of my life. You have our support Gareth. Ive felt shame and keeping such a big secret has taken its toll. Stephen Adams for The Mail on Sunday, 'Courageous as ever legend on the pitch and legend off it.