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Ahead of the 140-mile triathlon in Tenby, the former Wales rugby captain said he wanted to break the stigma around the virus. All rights reserved. The rugby star compared his condition to 'living with diabetes or high blood pressure' and appears to be as fit as ever. By His older brothers are Richard and Steven. He is an engaging speaker on his experiences as both an international sports star and his personal story of coming out, as a member of the LGBT community and on living with HIV. Brave Gareth left the track and leaned over a safety barrier to embrace his husband of four-years Stephen, 56. The popular television regular and former Wales captain, who. He turned and rejoined the race but you could see tears in Gareths eyes. Praise:Gareth Thomas has credited husband Stephen (pictured) for supporting him as he went public with his HIV diagnosis. 'I can still hear their cruel laughter': Dr Alex George bravely reveals he suffered with an eating disorder Public Service Announcement, do NOT watch these ads! That is why The Sun has launched the You're Not Alone campaign. He also told that learning of his diagnosis has not been the last trauma he has had to undergo. A guy from Bridgend without a single GCSE to his name for one moment changed the world,' he said. I've felt shame and keeping such a big secret has taken its toll. "I'd probably say I am, my husband married me because of my rugby prowess and rugby strength," said Gareth. He told the show that he wanted to hold people without them fearing him due to misconceptions about HIV being so easily passed. Piers and Susanna wished him a happy three-year anniversary. And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women. I maintain my innocence in all the meritless allegations. I thought about driving off a cliff. As one of the most-capped players in the history of Welsh rugby union, Thomas is a titan of the game. The Welsh rugby legend had previously sobbed as he bravely appeared on This Morning to discuss why he didn't go public about living with the virus two years ago. To remind anyone facing a tough time, grappling with mental illness or feeling like there's nowhere left to turn, that there is hope. Retired Welsh rugby star who retired as the Wales National team's third-time leader in match appearances. : 'He has been a beacon of light for me. He explained it was no different to taking daily diabetes medication every day. 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. 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. The former Lions captain considered 'driving after a cliff' after the diagnosis Credit: Getty Images - Getty. The Facebook predator who lured schoolgirls to run away with him is one of 7,000 sex fiends who offended Are YOU a romantic comedy buff? Family: He married Jemma Thomas in 2001, but the couple divorced in 2009. A day later he competed in the Ironman Wales challenge, finishing in a time of 12 hours, 18 minutes and 29 seconds. Ive been threatened by people who said they would give away my secret. Gareth married his teenage sweetheart Jemma in 2002. "I had a fear people would judge me and treat me like a leper because of a lack of knowledge. I'm a vet, and here are five dog breeds most prone to cancer - including Golden Retrievers and Rottweilers. "By doing the Ironman contest he is showing everyone that hes still an incredible athlete. Gareth Thomas was forced to reveal his HIV diagnosis after sick blackmailers threatened to expose his secret. In sharing your story of being HIV+, you are saving lives and shattering stigma, by showing you can be strong and resilient while living with HIV. After marrying childhood sweetheart Jemma in 2002, the couple struggled with relationship problems. Thomas said he 'knew he was gay' at the age of around 16 or 17, but failed to accept it until years later. In 1987, Princess Diana shocked the worldas she shook hands with an AIDS patientat Middlesex Hospital in London at the opening of the UK's first treatment unit. 'Everyone supported him when he came out as gay and that support will be even stronger now.'. The sports legend told how he went through hell as he tried to keep his health battle hidden from his friends and family. 'For my own mental health and that of my family, this closure and acceptance from the other side is a hugely positive outcome. Gareth Thomas is showing it's not all doom and gloom amid the coronavirus lockdown. 'He must be so tough mentally and physically to take part today.'. The pair are seen canoodling in a bubble bath as they strip off for. Rugby legend Gareth Thomas has completed a 140-mile triathlon just a day after revealing he is living with HIV. "The Sun", "Sun", "Sun Online" are registered trademarks or trade names of News Group Newspapers Limited. You can unsubscribe at any time. Mr Thomas' legal team has been asked to comment, but it is understood that he is strongly contesting the claim. He said: "She treated me with such empathy and understanding and after about 20 minutes I got myself together.". RUGBY legend Gareth Thomas broke down in tears hugging his husband during an Ironman race today just hours after revealing he is HIV positive. After missing two months, he announced he would be retiring from the sport in October that year. The trio live together in Bridgend, Wales. 6ft 3in, 16 stone, Gareth went straight to hospital after sobbing on the shoulder of the doctor who gave him the news. 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. After missing two months, he announced he would be retiring from the sport in October that year. At club level Thomas played for Bridgend, Cardiff RFC, Celtic Warriors, Cardiff Blues and French side Toulouse. Well done: The 45-year-old is pictured on his bike this morning after completing a 2.3-mile swim. Can Nigeria's election result be overturned? By Samantha Masters. Experts weigh in as tremors hit Wales, Cornwall and the Are YOU eating the right colours? The overriding question that everybody said to me the first question everyone says to me when I tell them Im living with HIV is Are you going to be OK?, And its a really compassionate question to ask. "To me, wanting to die was just a natural thought and felt like the easier way out, but you have to confront things. On how much science had improved treatment, he said: You take a tablet for diabetes or blood pressure but because we deem this so serious, as HIV, nobody can really believe you take one tablet and you lead a normal, healthy, happy life and my husband is not at risk of contracting HIV and hes HIV negative. This service is provided on News Group Newspapers' Limited's Standard Terms and Conditions in accordance with our Privacy & Cookie Policy. You have our support Gareth. Revealed: The top 10 fastest-growing destinations for UK pensioners retiring overseas. While he was still playing in France he suffered a major health scare after a neck injury. Gareth Thomas (@gareththomas14) September 14, 2019. After retiring from the game Thomas launched a successful media career while volunteering for charities and is an active supporter of Childline. ', Mr Thomas announcing the move on Twitter today - he maintains innocence, Thomas played 100 times for Wales during his illustrious career before he retired from the game in 2011. 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. 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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. Prince William tweeted his support, describing Thomas as'Courageous as ever legend on the pitch and legend off it. Interactive map reveals when you may see SNOW. The court papers state that when he found out he was positive for the virus, he was left "devastated". Video, Russian minister laughed at for Ukraine war claims, A shocking insight into the lives of young people in care, US-made cheese can be called 'gruyere' - court, Alex Murdaugh's legal troubles are far from over, AOC under investigation for Met Gala dress, Nelson's 97th-minute stunner gives Arsenal victory, Saving Private Ryan actor Tom Sizemore dies at 61, The children left behind in Cuba's exodus, Walkie Talkie architect Rafael Violy dies aged 78. Lara Keay For Mailonline 'I was in a dark place, feeling suicidal. It doesn't control me.'. He said he has been living with the virus 'for years' and also revealed he is now re-married to a man named Stephen, 56. The star later switched to rugby league and led Wales to victory over France in the European. The retired Welsh rugby star, who today has taken the brave step of telling the world of his HIV+ status,. At conservative gathering, Trump is still the favourite. He said he hoped his public acknowledgement of his sexuality would help other young gay sportsmen seek support from charities and help groups. 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. He also claimed Mr Thomas lied to him about his HIV status. He was later rushed to hospital and was suspected to have had a stroke, with fears the impact on his health may have led to his retirement. By The former Wales and British and Irish Lions player, who came out as gay in 2009, yesterday revealed he kept his HIV status a secret over fears he would be 'treated like a leper' - and was today hailed for his bravery by Princes William and Harry. Gareth was blowing kisses to the crowd when he saw people he knew behind a barrier. I didnt feel anger if anything, I felt sorry for him.. Saving Private Ryan actor Tom Sizemore dies aged 61 after brain aneurysm, Peter Andre sets strict rules for Princess after 'signing deal with fashion retailer', Jake Gyllenhaal flaunts rock-hard abs as he slaps former MMA fighter for Road House remake. 'I've always been a huge fan - this won't change anything. "But now at 45 I no longer have that, so I am holding on for dear life!". The Celebrity Big Brother star, 45, stunned the sporting world yesterday by dramatically declaring he is living with the incurable virus. The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives. 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. He tweeted today: 'I'm making this announcement first before the tabloids take my truth. He said he would 'never forget' the moment he found out his diagnosis, which came after a 'routine sexual health test' in Cardiff. Welsh rugby star Gareth Thomas hugs husband Stephen as he finishes second-leg of ironman race just hours after revealing secret HIV diagnosis - as Prince William and Kate Middleton praise him for. Gareth Thomas CBE is a widely celebrated international rugby star, former Welsh Rugby Captain and former British and Irish Lions Captain. This is a subject that because of the 80s scenarios people dont talk about it because thats the only information they have. His father Barry, 69, is a retired postal worker, and his mother Yvonne, 70, a former hospital secretary. In 2017 he made a TV documentary called Gareth Thomas v Homophobia challenging gay taunts used by soccer fans at Premiership matches. He split with his wife Jemma in 2009 upon revealing his true sexuality, seven years after they married. In the event he discovered he 'underestimated' them. He told the Daily Mail in December 2009: 'I was like a ticking bomb. Magazine, Do not sell or share my personal information. What's the least amount of exercise we can get away with? The views expressed in the contents above are those of our users and do not necessarily reflect the views of MailOnline. 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. Mr Baum is suing the TV personality for 150,000. Unathi Nkayi also confirmed that she and her ex-husband Thomas Msengana are in a good place, adding that he is her greatest love and that their love had evolved and grown in a way that did not . The happy couple were married in front of 70 family and friends including Gareths close pal H from pop band Steps. GARETH THOMAS and his husband Stephen have revealed how Prince Harry got in touch after the former spoke out about his HIV diagnosis earlier this month. 'It was who I was, and I just couldn't ignore it any more. Gareth Thomas came out to his wife without warning by telling her over the phone: "We need to talk." The Welsh rugby ace, who today has bravely revealed his HIV+ status, had wrestled with his. Interactive map reveals when you may see SNOW. 'It's always sad when an ex-professional sportsman picks up an illness of any kind. He made his debut for Wales the following year, representing his country until 2007. 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?". He admitted cheating on her multiple times, insisting he always practised safe sex when sleeping with men. Thomas has reduced his illness to an undetectable state by taking a daily tablet, meaning he cannot pass HIV on to others. I had a fear people would judge me and treat me like a leper because of a lack of knowledge. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn also tweeted his support, saying the rugby legend has 'shown enormous strength' in sharing his HIV status. He said: 'I've been living with this secret for years. The Facebook predator who lured schoolgirls to run away with him is one of 7,000 sex fiends who offended Are YOU a romantic comedy buff? Gareth Thomas broke down as he hugged Stephen during the Ironman, Gareth Thomas celebrates completing the Ironman, Gareth Thomas: Carol Vorderman reacts to star's HIV diagnosis, Prince Harry backs rugby star Gareth Thomas over HIV revelation, William tribute to Gareth Thomas after rugby star has HIV. Gareth was expected to cross the finishing line in Tenby at about 7pm. Mr Baum then "immediately" made an appointment for a HIV test. But he loves me and supports me 100 per cent in what I'm doing.. Last November Thomas was the victim of an homophobic attack while out with friends in Cardiff City Centre. I wasn't expecting it at all. 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. "I hope people lining the route cheer extra loudly when he passes them on the road.". Read about our approach to external linking. 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. Many felt that Ralph Hasenhuttl was a man on the brink at that pointCrystal Palace are readying a 20m January transfer bid for Conor Gallagher if the England midfielder's Chelsea dream is shattered000 workers across various tournament services and 40 gareth thomas husband, If Costa passes his medical. The Princess of Wales, who attended the parade with her husband on Wednesday morning, presented . In a stunning show of solidarity, the Welsh rugby icon and his husband Stephen are ensuring everyone in. 'You wake up one morning thinking: 'I can handle it. I'm speaking out because I want to help others and make a difference.'. Gareth Thomas has hit out at Twitter after a video he shared of himself dancing with his husband was abruptly removed from his feed by the social media platform. In September 2019 he became the first major British sports star to come out as HIV-positive. Although Gareth Thomas is the first UK sportsman to bravely reveal his HIV diagnosis, he was not the first worldwide. Thomas had to learn how to do the front crawl to take part in the Ironman. Lara Keay For Mailonline He went on: 'Sometimes I felt so alone and depressed. RAF Typhoon jets cause massive sonic boom sweeping across central England when they scramble to intercept a Do YOU know your Adam and Eve from your Ruby Murray? I was being blackmailed and in my mind I thought you only get blackmailed for something really bad, which compounded the feeling of shame. 'He is a remarkable individual who is mentally equipped to deal with this illness. Gareth Thomas has credited his husband Stephen Williams Thomas with helping him through being blackmailed over his HIV diagnosis. 'I genuinely think it's going to save people's lives,' he said. Rugby legend Gareth Thomas has completed a 140-mile triathlon just a day after revealing he is living with HIV. Stephen, 56, added that he was full of pride for Gareth, who announced his HIV status shortly before participating in a gruelling Ironman Triathlon. "Im speaking out because I want to help others and make a difference.. 'My parents and loved ones are fine with it,' he said. Will El Salvador's new mega-prison turn into a bloodbath? Yet it has been disclosed that the 56-year-old is from the Valleys - the stretch of land running fromCarmarthenshire to western Monmouthshire. Onlooker Sue Moore, 58, said: It was a very emotional moment - no one expected it. Despite cracking his head in the early rounds, Louganis emerged from the Games as a double-gold medalist and subsequently revealed his HIV. What will the next pandemic be? You're Not Alone. Only once the immune system is already severely damaged will the person show new symptoms. 'People in Wales will back him, the same as we did when he came out as gay. It is claimed he called Mr Thomas for an explanation and according to the documents, Mr Thomas was "very repentant and apologetic". We need to break the stigma. "Hes had this condition for quite a while so hes been living with a terrible secret. Stephen is 56 years old and has a daughter, Anna, who is 23. Then I was thinking, 'How long have I got left?'. 'It looks to me like he's sending a message out to the world about living with HIV.'. Read about our approach to external linking. You can't catch HIV from hugging me - Alfie, 'My stalker told my friends and family I had HIV', I hadn't been taught the reality of living with HIV, Ex-Wales rugby captain Thomas reveals he has HIV, Xi Jinping's power grab - and why it matters, Street fighting in Bakhmut but Russia not in control, Russian minister laughed at for Ukraine war claims. Let's all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others. Mr Thomas, 48, was accused by Mr Baum, 59, of 'assault, battery, infliction of intentional harm and negligence'. Gareth has spoken glowingly of Stephens support, adding that his husbands quiet upbringing in rural Wales means he is reluctant to receive media focus or give interviews. They split in 2007 with the divorce finalised in 2009. Revealed: The top 10 fastest-growing destinations for UK pensioners retiring overseas. We need to break the stigma once and for all. "Two thirds of people would consider ending or would end a relationship if they found out that their partner was HIV positive. Meanwhile, Prince William and Kate Middleton today hailed "courageous" Gareth Thomas as the rugby hero competed in a gruelling Ironman contest just hours after bravely revealing his battle with HIV. He was the first British rugby international. In January 2012 he went into the Celebrity Big Brother House, finishing in the final three. Welsh rugby star Gareth Thomas hugs husband Stephen as he finishes second-leg of ironman race just hours after revealing secret HIV diagnosis - as Prince William and Kate Middleton praise him for. REVEALED: Huge sonic boom felt by thousands across the country was caused by RAF Typhoon jets scrambling to Do YOU know your Adam and Eve from your Ruby Murray? Welsh rugby star Gareth Thomas appeared on Good Morning Britain on Wednesday where he spoke to hosts Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid. The 45-year-old bravely told the world . Murdaugh is heckled as he leaves court, Moment teenager crashes into back of lorry after 100mph police race, Ken Bruce finishes his 30-year tenure as host of BBC Radio 2, Family of a 10-month-old baby filmed vaping open up, Missing hiker buried under snow forces arm out to wave to helicopter, Insane moment river of rocks falls onto Malibu Canyon in CA, Fleet-footed cop chases an offender riding a scooter, Ukrainian soldier takes out five tanks with Javelin missiles. 'He wants everyone to know that HIV shouldn't stop you doing anything you want to. When Mr Thomas revealed he was HIV positive, Prince William tweeted: 'Courageous as ever, legend on the pitch and legend off it.'. 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. Mr Thomas had been sued for150,000 in damages by Mr Baum over claims he hadfailed to take 'reasonable care' before allegedly passing the virus onto him. The 45-year-old, who is affectionately known as Alfie, also revealed he has remarried and his husband, a man known only as Stephen, 56, does not have the virus. 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. The world's best movie director you've never heard of: How little-known film-maker has even toppled the A big Beckham birthday! Thomas, wearing number 50, was given another huge cheer when his name was announced over the PA system at the event, which will take 17 hours for some competitors to complete. 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.. The former rugby player has kept his marriage out of the limelight,. "It is quite easy to educate people, but to re educate people when they think they know everything about HIV, is even more difficult.". This was around the time a film was due to be made about Thomas's life. Thomas appeared as a contestant on TV's Celebrity Big Brother where he reached the final three. Thomas carried on playing rugby until 2011 when he suffered a broken arm. Stephen Adams for The Mail on Sunday, 'Courageous as ever legend on the pitch and legend off it. He told the Daily Mail in December 2009: 'I was like a ticking bomb. With 100 test match appearances he was the most capped Welsh rugby union player until he was overtaken by Stephen Jones in September 2011. 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. Speaking to the Mirror, Thomas said: Ive been living with this secret for years. He spoke about the stigma still surrounding HIV after revealing he has it last September, and he is launching an anti-ignorance campaign. That is why it is so important to get tested early if you have been at risk of HIV, as it will mean that you can access treatment that will prevent you ever getting AIDS. Complete Encyclopedia Formula One (Motor Racing), Hill, Tim and Gareth Thomas., 9781445439624 | eBay The sporting legend waved at the crowds as he prepared for a marathon later. I've stood on so many cliff edges. Ian Baum has. The former rugby player has kept his marriage out of the limelight, but revealed that the pair met while helping children who were struggling in school. He explained: I needed to take control of my life. Gareth Thomas has thanked his husband Stephen for being his "beacon of light". Gareth takes one tablet a day, and it means he will not infect a sexual partner with HIV. More info. 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. View our online Press Pack. 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.. He took to social media to share his ordeal and requested South Wales police deal with the 16-year-old suspect by way of restorative justice. 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. "Nobody can contract HIV if they use the same fork or the same glass.". The honeytrap plot that left father-of-six dead: Moment two women lead victim into his flat to seduce him Why is Britain experiencing so many earthquakes? You have our support Gareth. It almost felt as if someone I loved had suddenly died, but he was still standing there in front of me. 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. He took to social media to share his ordeal and requested South Wales police deal with the 16-year-old suspect by way of restorative justice. When told in a 'matter of fact way' that he was HIV-positive, Thomas said he broke down. 12:35 GMT 17 Sep 2019. After marrying childhood sweetheart Jemma in 2002, the couple struggled with relationship problems.