On a much smaller but everyday scale HIV is a condition of he immune system therefore causes all sorts of nasty little infections, mouth ulcers, cold sores, skin infections and rashes. Not to mention the fact that you have to take a cocktail of drugs every day and they all have their own side effects.
People with HIV can live a pretty normal life... but it's one that brings it's own difficulties and burdens. One thing that has to happen is that you have to have a much greater awareness of the pepople around you who you are close to and have to keep safe.
I have friends who have HIV and *touches wood* they are relatively fit and well at the moment but they are so often ill and every time they get a cold it's a bit of a panic.
But, as James said the drugs are improving all the time as is the length and quality of life.
Good for you to be tackling such a difficult subject.