I was recently diagnosed with oral and genital herpes. I live alone and while I’m dealing with the diagnosis - I can’t help but feel alone. I found out when dating someone new and disclosed as soon as I thought something was off. In the short time I’ve known him he has been wonderful, rational, and supportive. We had sex before I knew and he is getting tested this week. However, I don’t think it’s been long enough for antibodies to build up in his system (if he were positive). He says his feelings haven’t changed, he is neutral about it, and it is what it is. Things are going well for the beginning stages of dating. I’m just afraid that one day he will change his mind and decide to end things over this. It’s too early on in dating (only a month on Tuesday) and if this doesn’t work out I know love is out there. I’ve known a person or two who has herpes and they date and lead normal lives. The worst part about this is feeling alone...living alone...and going through the initial outbreak by myself. Yes, I have his support, but it’s not the same kind of support as an established relationship. It just sucks...I just want to be held and told everything will be alright. I’m 42 years old and just want to be held. Yup, I’ll admit it. The uncertainty of his result and the guilt of unknowingly putting him in danger is obviously hard to handle. I’m grateful for his friendship if that is all it turns out to be. I just thought life would be so different! Back in August my fiancé passed away from a heart condition . After his death in found myself desperate for love and connection. I have a strong belief that I got this from a one night stand (before the person I am dating now). I think that person knew he had it just by the way he acted afterwards. I’ve gone through a lot of pain I love. I’m just hoping that the current dating situation is different. I just don’t want to be alone.